From First Lady to Fashion Trendsetter: Melania Trump Becomes a Social Media Sensation in China

Melania Trump has become an internet sensation in China, especially among women. Her popularity may seem unexpected given her husband’s critical stance on China. However, social media users admire her independence, fashion sense, and dedication to raising her son.

Standing by Trump Amid Controversies

Many admire Melania’s loyalty to Donald Trump despite his controversial past. His misogynistic remarks, alleged affairs, and liability in a sexual abuse case have not shaken her public stance. In fact, one user on Xiaohongshu praised her, saying, “She looks heroic, elegant, and resolute, so powerful and majestic, loving it so much.”

Fashion Influence

Melania’s wide-brimmed hat at the inauguration quickly sparked a trend. As a result, online shops started selling similar hats. Additionally, knitting influencers on Xiaohongshu posted tutorials on making them within 48 hours.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Chinese society expects women to support their husbands and focus on family. However, Melania embodies both tradition and modern independence. Her journey from a small Slovenian town to global recognition continues to inspire many.

Jingsi Wu, a media studies professor, pointed out, “Chinese fans like her having both traditional and modern sides of a woman.”

Viral Social Media Moments

A four-year-old video of Melania refusing to hold Trump’s hand gained over 5 million likes on Douyin. Furthermore, another post on Xiaohongshu, joking about Melania’s reluctance to return to public life, received half a million likes. Even a satirical article on Bilibili, meant to mock her marriage, instead increased her popularity.

A Mysterious and Inspiring Figure

Ge Yahan, a 24-year-old fan from Zibo, sees Melania as both mysterious and brave. She admires Melania’s decision to leave Slovenia and chase her dreams in the U.S.

Moreover, Ge also profits from her admiration. She sells unauthorized Mandarin-translated copies of Melania’s memoir on Chinese social media for eight yuan ($1.10).

Political Divide

Donald Trump has openly criticized China’s economic policies. He imposed tariffs and blamed COVID-19 on China, calling it the “Kung Flu.” Moreover, he even claimed that thousands of Chinese immigrants were forming an “army” to attack the U.S.

Despite this, many in China view U.S. politics like a soap opera. Rose LuQiu, a professor in Hong Kong, noted that Trump’s success elevates Melania’s image. “The more independent and accomplished she is—but still loyal to Trump—the more it reflects his perceived success as a man,” she explained.

Influence on Parenting Views

Chinese fans admire Melania’s dedication to her son Barron. In fact, many joke that she only returned to the White House to support his future career. Wu noted, “Chinese pay extra attention to parenting.”

Loyalty Over Everything

Melania’s perseverance through personal and political scandals wins admiration. “Melania is a woman who is low-key, very real, supports her husband in the back, and stands with him when he needs her,” said entrepreneur Yip.

Previously, Yip admired Ivanka Trump. However, she now sees Ivanka as a traitor for testifying in her father’s civil fraud trial. “The rules of this society are that men are allowed to be disloyal, but not women,” Yip said. “Melania is very loyal to her husband.”