How do you define “style”?
It's a diamond-encrusted watch that doesn't lose its lustre when you're baking chocolate-chip cookies with your children. It’s a fitted blazer that inspires confidence, whether you're jetting to playdates or jetting to meetings you're not authorized to attend. It's makeup that feels “barely there,” which is coincidentally how I will describe my presence in the White House during congressional hearings years from now.
What trends are you anticipating in 2017?
People say New York is the fashion capital of the world, but since moving to D.C. I've noticed that the color of the season isn't black—it's pink! I've always had a keen eye for fashion trends, and I've noticed that oddly shaped pink headgear is so popular right now. Pink headgear is popping up everywhere—on the streets and Instagram feeds, even in the pages of teen magazines. I plan on putting my own Ivanka Trump pink hat into production for spring. I'll be adding some of my signature flourishes to the design—that is, I would be, if I were still involved with my company, which I'm most certainly not!
What are some of your fashion challenges?
Definitely airport style: creating a fashion-forward look that's also pragmatic is always a challenge when you're travelling with little ones. But lately I've found that the bigger challenge is just getting to the airport! There are so many delays, congestion is an absolute nightmare, and, for whatever reason, airports have become a cool place for young people with colorful posters to hang out. It can be stressful, which is why I always recommend comfortable stilettos, a slouchy Ivanka Trump All-Day Tote™, and flying on Air Force One whenever possible.
Who are your fashion icons?
My family, of course—the style I have curated continues to inspire me. For casual looks, I think Taylor Swift has an amazing all-American vibe that is chic and refreshing. She and I share so much in common, from our fashion sense to the way we are always talking about women's equality. If only I could sing like her! For more of a vintage, feminine date-night look, I love Marie Antoinette and her aesthetic. I once studied abroad in Paris, and ever since haven't been able to stop thinking about her elegant gowns.
What do you carry in your purse?
I can't live without my day planner, the Ivanka Trump Two-in-One Pocket Calendar and Wallet Clutch™ in ivory and gold. I designed it with my hectic life in mind, and then I realized it would be selfish if I didn't make it available to the rest of the world's working women. I always carry a handwritten copy of my recipe for banana-bran muffins so that I can change the topic of conversation at a moment's notice. (Ask me about the secret ingredient!) I also never leave the house without a small bottle of my favorite fragrance, which is a signature blend of freshly cut grass from Mar-a-Lago and Old Bay seasoning from the Trump Grill. And then, of course, a few pacifiers for my dad—for when he babysits the kids!
What trend needs to go?
It's time to say goodbye to puffy coats. They're not particularly flattering, and we are so lucky that this has been one of the warmest winters in history. Who can explain why temperatures have hit record highs in March? I like to think of it as a little gift from the fashion gods!
