Women connected to Donald Trump, portraits of controversy at his Florida resort
The Hyper-Feminine Aesthetic Among Trump's Women
A unique aesthetic trend, often referred to as the "Mar-a-Lago Face" or "Maga Look," has emerged among women associated with U.S. President Donald Trump. This hyper-feminine style is particularly prevalent among women in his inner circle, such as Melania Trump and others.
Key features of this aesthetic include a suntanned complexion, enhanced lips, wrinkle-free faces, black eyeliner, false eyelashes, prominent eyebrows, and long, artificially elongated hair.
This trend has gained such prominence that it has earned nicknames like the "Mar-a-Lago Face"—named after Trump's Florida estate—and simply the "Maga Look," a term that references the "Make America Great Again" movement.
Notable examples include the Homeland Security Minister, Kristi Noem; Donald Trump's daughter-in-law, Lara Trump; and Kimberly Guilfoyle, the designated U.S. Ambassador to Greece and former fiancée of Trump's son Don Jr. All of these women have undergone a noticeable physical transformation in recent years.
The image of women in Trump's administration is closely linked to certain patriarchal evangelical circles, according to historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez. In this environment, a dogmatic interpretation of Christian faith is combined with a nationalist vision of America.
In some extreme parts of this movement, misogyny is prevalent, up to and including demands to deprive women of the right to vote and constrain them to their roles as mothers. While there is room for women in public positions, it is conditional, and femininity is primarily defined through outer presentation and political allegiance, serving as a counterpoint to the demonstratively displayed male hardness.
The "Mar-a-Lago Face" is more than a matter of personal style. It is a political statement, reflecting the culture and ideologies that prevail within Trump's circle. Women who adopt this aesthetic style become visible political faces, embodying an authoritarian project.
The origin of this staged form of right-wing femininity is not limited to conservative circles under Trump. Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez notes that Sarah Palin, former governor of Alaska and a vice presidential candidate, was an early embodiment of this style on a national stage.
Not all women in Trump's circle conform to this aesthetic. Susie Wiles, the most powerful woman in Trump's world and his Chief of Staff, has gray hair, subtle makeup, and unassuming pantsuits. She is known for staying in the background, exerting power behind the scenes.
The consistency and unity suggested by this trend have raised concerns about pressure to conform to specific beauty ideals, stifling individuality. On the other hand, the recognizability of this aesthetic also provides visibility on social media platforms, aiding identity formation, and garnering support from Trump and his followers.
- The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive regarding the hyper-feminine aesthetic among Trump's women, as it engages with various sectors such as fashion-and-beauty, lifestyle, entertainment, and even politics.
- This hyper-feminine aesthetic among Trump's women extends beyond their political roles, as it permeates general-news discussions, with topics ranging from beauty standards to social norms in politics.
- In the context of Trump's administration, the hyper-feminine aesthetic has become a tool for political positioning, mirroring the authoritarian project and serving as a visible symbol for the supporters of the 'Make America Great Again' movement.
