Melania Trump, Slovenia-born former supermodel and wife of ex-President Donald Trump, has navigated a life of glamour, political scrutiny, and enigmatic public persona. From her lucrative modeling career to eyebrow-raising moments as First Lady, here’s an inside look at her wealth, controversies, and untold stories.
Early Life & Modeling Career
Born Melanija Knavs in Novo Mesto, Slovenia (1970), Melania Trump’s journey began in communist-era Europe. At 18, she signed with a modeling agency, working across Milan, Paris, and New York. Her career peak included a 2000 *British GQ* cover and campaigns for high-end brands, laying the foundation for her estimated $50 million net worth.
Marriage to Donald Trump & Financial Gains
Melania married Donald Trump in 2005 after a six-year courtship. Their prenuptial agreement reportedly safeguards her financial independence, including a trust fund for their son, Barron. During Trump’s presidency, Melania leveraged her status to launch ventures like the Melania Trump NFT Collection (2022), which grossed over $1 million despite criticism.
Controversies as First Lady
- “I Really Don’t Care” Jacket (2018): During a visit to migrant children detained at the border, Melania wore a jacket emblazoned with the phrase, sparking global backlash. Critics called it tone-deaf; she later claimed it was “a message to the left-wing media.”
- Plagiarism Scandal (2016): Her Republican National Convention speech mirrored Michelle Obama’s 2008 address, forcing her staff to admit “common words” were unintentionally reused.
- Luxury Spending: Melania faced scrutiny for renovating the White House tennis pavilion ($2.4 million) and taking separate flights from Donald Trump, costing taxpayers extra.
Post-White House Life & Income Streams
Since leaving Washington, Melania has focused on private ventures:
- Fashion Collaborations: A 2021 NFT-backed watercolor hat collection.
- Memoir Deal: Rumored to be negotiating a $20 million book deal.
- Speaking Engagements: Commands up to $250,000 per appearance, though rarely participates.
The “Reluctant” First Lady
Melania’s distant relationship with Donald Trump fueled tabloid speculation. Reports claimed she renegotiated their prenup during his presidency and often lived separately in New York. Her infamous quote – *“Don’t expect me to cry in public”* – cemented her image as a guarded figure.
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