Melania Trump’s holiday approach is under scrutiny again. This time, critics slammed the First Lady for releasing a $90 brass ornament alongside the official 2025 White House decorations.
The piece, named “American Star,” is part of a six-piece collection marking her ongoing holiday merchandising campaign. Online commentators quickly labeled it “tone-deaf” and “opportunistic.”
Image credits: flotus
A Critique of Holiday Merch
Critics saw the ornament as a cynical branding move, echoing a presidency that sold sneakers, clothing, phones, and watches. The $90 American Star, made of brass, painted red, white, and blue, and engraved with her signature, immediately fueled social media outrage:
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“Grifting along through the holidays.”
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“But she hates Christmas!”
Despite the criticism, her 2025 decorations, titled “Home Is Where the Heart Is,” were more approachable than previous years. They featured natural-looking trees, children’s toys, patriotic themes, and Lego portraits.
A White House Transformed
The East Wing renovations cut the holiday tour in half, but staff created a restrained yet symbol-heavy display:
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51 Christmas trees
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75 red-bow wreaths
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700 feet of garland
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25,000 feet of ribbon
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10,000 blue butterflies
The Red Room’s blue butterfly installation drew particular attention, while the Green Room displayed classic toys and the Blue Room featured an 18-foot fir with 3D-printed ornaments for each state.
Visitors also saw a 20-pound gingerbread White House, crimson trees, and Lego portraits of Donald Trump and George Washington.
Melania Trump’s 2025 Christmas decorations balanced tradition with symbolism. However, the $90 American Star ornament sparked significant debate, highlighting public sensitivity to perceived opportunism and privilege in holiday displays.
Whether admired or criticized, the First Lady’s holiday choices remain a flashpoint in American culture.
