Melania Trump’s $100K Dior wedding dress hits eBay auction after alterations by second owner

Melania Trump’s iconic 2005 Christian Dior wedding dress, famously designed by John Galliano and once valued at $100,000, has resurfaced on eBay. But the gown’s current appearance—and price—has sparked debate among collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Listed by eBay user Svjabc1, the dress is up for auction at $45,000, less than half its original price. The seller claims she purchased the gown directly from Melania in 2010 for $70,000, after being connected through a mutual friend.

The dress was then altered for the seller’s own wedding, including additional embroidery, straps, and a modified back to accommodate a larger bust size. Images show floral beading and satin waist embellishments not present in the original design.

Photo: eBay

The original strapless ivory gown, made of duchesse satin with a 13-foot train and more than 500 hours of Swarovski crystal beading, gained global attention when Melania appeared in it on the February 2005 cover of Vogue, photographed by Mario Testino.

Photo: Vogue Archive

At the time, the former First Lady envisioned her wedding as a lavish affair in white, gold, and diamonds, with fashion guidance from Anna Wintour and André Leon Talley.

Now, the once-pristine couture piece features visible changes.The seller insists it can be reverted to fit Melania’s original size 0–2 by removing the added layer. Still, no certificate of authenticity accompanies the listing.

The dress has reportedly only been worn twice—by Melania at her Palm Beach wedding to Donald Trump and by the seller at her own ceremony. Despite being stored in a box for years, the gown is described as in “good” condition. As of now, 71 users are watching the listing.

Fashion writer Liana Satenstein highlighted the listing on her Substack after a friend found it while searching for vintage Dior. The bizarre discovery has reignited interest in one of America’s most controversial First Ladies and her high-profile bridal look.