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White House Press Pool Reports @WHPressPool - FLOTUS Pool Report #2
Office of the First Lady says Ambassador Bill White DID NOT attend.
The program started promptly at 11am and was over by 11:15.
Bunch spoke about the historic nature of the donation.
"I am extremely excited because Mrs. Trump's second inaugural gown will join this collection, and I don't want to understate how important it is that this is really a milestone in its own right," Bunch said. "She is the first First Lady to be exhibited and represented by two inaugural gowns in the more than 100 years of this museum. That's really important."
The First Lady spoke for just under seven minutes about the gown and what it means, describing it as not simply a garment but as an expression of her "early memories, life experiences, and influences."
"Human nature resides in the discipline of detail. Everything is in the detail," she said.
"This is not a dress," she continued, describing it as "more than 50 years of education, experience, and wisdom realized with each thread, each stitch, each sharp edge. The meticulously formed black shape “Z” on the front bodice summons decades of my early memories, life experiences, and influences. And, all of these stories are tucked deep within its crisp, strong seams—forever."
She complimented Pierre and Winston, and said fashion design is another form of creative expression.
"The beautiful contrast between black and white sets a mood rich with emotion. American imagination appears in different creative forms, across all types of canvases—and often serves up a clear perspective. This dress speaks with a distinct point of view—a modern silhouette, bold and dignified, and ruthlessly chic."
She also said she loves the entire design process, from start to finish.
"It takes time, it’s slow, but the end result is always magical. If you had a chance to see my new film, MELANIA, you are well aware of what it took to bring this technical marvel to life."
After the program, the First Lady posed for pictures alone with the mannequin wearing the gown and the accompanying neckpiece, then with Hartig and Bunch.
Pierre came up on stage next, and he and the First Lady shook hands and posed for photos.
The mannequin was then carefully loaded onto a dolley cart, gently wheeled to an elevator and taken upstairs to be installed in "The First Ladies" exhibition.
Melania Trump was to be brought into the exhibit just after 11:45am to see the gown on display in a large square see-through case in the middle of the room. A small pool had been preset. Pierre joined her as they walked around the display, chatting and gesturing at the gown.