Advertisement

Melania Trump unveils surprising Christmas decorations for final festive season at the White House

Photo credit: Drew Angerer
Photo credit: Drew Angerer

From Harper's BAZAAR

Throughout the Trump administration, the US President and First Lady have taken a bold and unique approach when it comes to the White House Christmas decorations.

In 2018, there were haunting blood-red trees and, of course, the eery bare-white branches that lined the hallways of 2017, described as a "house of horrors" on social media. Last year, saw the couple adopt a more traditional theme, although a reimagined mini version of the White House backlit by creepy red light still attracted snarky memes.

For 2020, Melania Trump, who heads up the White House Christmas décor, abandoned her previous unusual nods entirely, allowing tradition to take centre stage. This year's theme is 'America the Beautiful', translating as green trees decorated with red, gold and silver ornaments and white lights. The East Colonnade, previously home to those icy white branches and blood red trees, is filled with urns holding plumes of foliage and greenery from each state and territory.

The Red Room pays tribute to US key-workers whom have worked tirelessly this year to fight the pandemic. The space houses a light-up ceramic post office and a tree with ornaments celebrating frontline workers, including a rubbish truck, scientist, caregiver, lab coat and nurse hat.

Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

"We salute America's everyday heroes who serve as first responders and frontline workers. Handmade ornaments highlight the many professionals and volunteers who serve their communities with a spirit of generosity," according to Melania's office. The decorations feature 106 wreaths, 62 trees, more than 1,200 feet of garland, more than 3,200 lights, more than 17,000 bows, and more than 150 types of foliage and flora.

Photo credit: The Washington Post - Getty Images
Photo credit: The Washington Post - Getty Images

The Christmas unveiling comes not long after after a tape emerged of the First Lady complaining about having to decorate the White House for the festive season. Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, the author of Melania & Me: The Rise and Fall of My Friendship With the First Lady, shared a recording of Melania in October.

“I’m working ... my ass off on the Christmas stuff, that you know, who gives a fuck about the Christmas stuff and decorations? But I need to do it, right?”

Photo credit: Rex
Photo credit: Rex
Photo credit: SAUL LOEB - Getty Images
Photo credit: SAUL LOEB - Getty Images

This is Donald and Melania Trump's final Christmas at the White House, before the president-elect Joe Biden and his family moves in this January.

In need of some at-home inspiration? Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for skincare and self-care, the latest cultural hits to read and download, and the little luxuries that make staying in so much more satisfying.

SIGN UP

You Might Also Like