The not-quite house
Awkward moment Melania Trump is left hanging as she goes to shake Michelle Obama’s hand (and her gift got short shrift, too)
SHE’S set to become the First Lady of the United States of America.
But Melania Trump was left red-faced today after a very awkward encounter with Michelle Obama.
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The 46-year-old went to shake Michelle's hand on the steps of The White House, while the outgoing First Lady went in for a kiss on the cheek.
Melania put on a brave smile, quickly returned the affection, and then handed Michelle a giant box from high-end jewellers Tiffany’s.
The First Lady, however, looked keen to pass the gift to a nearby aide.
It is has become a tradition that before the swearing-in ceremony the two couples talk over coffee at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
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The gift-giving tradition goes back several administrations and in 2009 Michelle Obama gave Laura Bush a leather-bound journal and engraved silver pen.
The Obamas welcomed Donald and Melania for a traditional breakfast at the White House before Trump was sworn in as the 45th US President.
There was unprecedented security on the streets of Washington with officers banning drones flying within 30 miles of Trump over bomb fears.
As the divisive Republican candidate prepared to take office, protests broke out between anti-Trump protestors and the police.
Shocking videos from the scene show windows being smashed and what appears to be tear gas fired at the crowds.
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Meanwhile, it's clear Melania Trump is keen to cement herself as the First Lady of fashion as she stepped out in a chic, high-necked cornflower blue dress.
Fashion watchers were left wondering who would dress the mum-of-one for the prestigious event, with many top designers reportedly refusing to offer her garments.
It was revealed that Ralph Lauren is the designer behind the elegant tailored ensemble, which Melania paired with her signature pin-thin heels and leather baby blue gloves.
Some observers claimed the cashmere, mock-turtle neck dress is reminiscent of the stylish garments worn by Jackie Kennedy.
The former First Lady wore a similar outfit back in 1961 when John F. Kennedy was sworn into office.
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Melania kept her make-up simple, ditched her normal bouncy blow dry for an understated updo and wore diamond stud earrings.
Style lovers got a first glance of Melania’s outfit as she left Blair House alongside her husband on their way to a service at St. John’s Church.
The family were joined by 300 guests before they moved on to breakfast with the Obamas, with the official inauguration ceremony later on this afternoon.
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Ralph Lauren is rumoured to have also created an evening ensemble for Melania.
She previously wowed in a £3,250 white trousersuit by the New York-based designer on Election Night.
Lauren already has links to the White House and became Hillary Clinton’s favoured dresser during her own presidential campaign.
He designed the white blazer and trouser suit she wore to the Democratic National Convention, as well as several of her other outfits on the trail.
It is believed Melania will change into a second outfit for the evening’s celebrations.
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