The red carpet at the Kennedy Center shimmered with black-tie glamour Wednesday night as President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and second lady Usha Vance made a stunning entrance at the revitalization fundraiser and opening night of the Broadway classic Les Misérables.
In what many online have dubbed a return to elegance in Washington, D.C., the high-profile evening marked not only a celebration of the arts but also the public debut of the new leadership era at the Kennedy Center under Trump and Center President Richard Grenell.
“Class is back,” one user posted on X. “While the Left burns, Vance and Usha bring class and dignity to the Kennedy Center. That’s how leadership looks.”
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Just wow: Vice President Vance and beautiful Second Lady Usha arrive at The Kennedy Center.
— Kate (@kate_p45) June 11, 2025
The fundraiser, held alongside the sold-out opening of Les Misérables, also served as a showcase of the Kennedy Center’s transformation under Trump’s vision to restore what he has called the “Golden Age of American Arts.” Trump, now chairman of the Kennedy Center board of trustees, is working with Grenell to overhaul the institution’s finances, programming, and leadership.
But for many, the fashion of the evening stole the spotlight.
The second lady stunned onlookers in a sleek, strapless black gown featuring modern asymmetrical white detailing and a structured bodice. Her hair was styled in a classic updo, creating a look one social media user called “sophisticated and timeless.”
“I love seeing elegant dresses on the red carpet for events instead of the typical Hollywood vibes of shock and trash,” one user commented. “Usha looks amazing, as always.”
“She has impeccable fashion sense. I love her style. Very beautiful.”
“Stunning and classy couple!” another user declared.
Donald Trump and Melania Trump also made waves online for their signature poise and polish. Melania, known for her impeccable style, arrived in a sleek off-the-shoulder black gown — believed to be the Bottega Veneta Women’s Viscose Jersey Dress — paired with metallic silver Christian Louboutin heels, visible as she stepped onto the red carpet alongside the president, exuding elegance.
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“They look terrific! So classy,” one admirer wrote.
“Stunning. Makes me proud,” another posted, while others praised Melania’s timeless elegance with comments like, “Can only imagine Melania is more beautiful in person,” and simply, “Elegance.”