First Lady Melania Trump finds herself ensnared in a web of criticism, seemingly a side effect of her close ties to President Donald Trump.
From celebrity gossip-mongers to Democratic lawmakers eager to take aim, Melania often bears a weight of scrutiny comparable to that of her more publicly engaged husband.
Even within the realms she once navigated with ease—namely fashion and modeling—she has encountered an extraordinary level of examination.
Take the long-time editor of Vogue, Anna Wintour, as a prime example.
Traditionally, first ladies are granted the privilege of gracing the cover of Vogue, accompanied by a glowing feature within its esteemed pages.
Former First Lady Jill Biden received this honor during her solitary term, as did the illustrious Michelle Obama.
But what about Melania? Crickets. And it appears the reason lies squarely with Wintour.
According to a report by the New York Times in 2021, “Mrs. Trump … was informally barred from the magazine by Ms. Wintour, who, when probed about the possibility of featuring Mrs. Trump, asserted in 2019, ‘I don’t think it’s a moment not to take a stand.’”
This detail merits attention in 2025, especially since reports have emerged that Wintour will soon vacate her position at Vogue after an impressive 37-year tenure.
During a staff meeting Thursday, the “sunglasses-and-bob-sporting” titan announced she is on the lookout for a new ‘head of editorial content’ for American Vogue, as per a spokesperson for the company, according to the New York Post.
Interestingly, the Post also noted that Wintour has cultivated “a reputation for being cold, controlling, and intimidating” since her arrival at the magazine in 1988.
So, does this sudden “bob-sporting” vacancy open the door for Melania Trump to finally nab that elusive Vogue cover?
Sadly, the answer is likely no.
Though Wintour is stepping away from American Vogue, she will retain her roles as global chief content officer for Condé Nast and as Vogue’s global editorial director.
This means that whoever takes over as editor-in-chief will still be accountable to Wintour, effectively squashing any hopes of a daring editor proposing a Trump cover story.
Despite the ongoing drama, Melania has made it clear that Wintour’s snub rolls off her back like water off a duck’s. She may not even entertain an approach from the magazine should they ever decide to extend an olive branch.
“To be on the cover of Vogue doesn’t define Mrs. Trump,” a White House representative conveyed to the Times following the 2021 article. “She’s done that long before she became First Lady.”
“Her role as First Lady of the United States and all that she accomplishes is far more significant than a superficial photo shoot and a magazine cover.”
This article originally appeared on The Western Journal.
