Melania Trump leads best dressed at 48th Kennedy Center Honors gala

President Donald Trump appeared in a traditional black tuxedo with satin lapels and a white dress shirt, keeping his look firmly in classic black-tie territory. First Lady Melania Trump embodied modern minimalism in a sleek, architectural black gown with a high neckline and sculpted cap sleeves. Her softly waved hair, diamond earrings and delicate bracelet added just the right amount of sparkle. With its clean lines and impeccable tailoring, the gown cemented her position as one of the evening’s best-dressed – a masterclass in quietly commanding elegance.

Rocky star Sylvester Stallone arrived in a double-breasted black tuxedo with peak lapels, wearing his Kennedy Center medal over his bow tie with pride. His wife Jennifer Flavin delivered high-shine sophistication in a strapless black gown featuring a mirrored, silver-toned bodice that caught the light at every angle. A sleek diamond necklace and soft waves completed the glamorous look. Together, the longtime couple brought Hollywood royalty energy to the red carpet, pairing classic tailoring with eye-catching couture elements.

Rock icon Gene Simmons embraced full formalwear with a rock-star twist, wearing a black tuxedo with a satin lapel, dark sunglasses and his Kennedy Center Honors medal draped proudly around his neck. His wife Shannon Tweed complemented him in a chic black gown with long sleeves and striking gold embellishment across the shoulders, adding drama and sculptural shine. Her gold clutch echoed the metallic details, while soft waves and warm-toned makeup completed the sophisticated look. 

KISS frontman Paul Stanley opted for classic black-tie elegance, wearing a tailored tuxedo with a satin lapel, crisp white shirt and bow tie, his Kennedy Center medal adding a formal note of achievement. His wife Erin Sutton brought dramatic couture energy in a strapless gown blending black tulle with deep crimson undertones, adorned with dimensional floral appliqués. The high-slit skirt added movement, while her sleek updo, bold red lipstick and sparkling statement cuff elevated the ensemble further.

Actor Kelsey Grammer cut a classic figure in a navy blazer paired with grey trousers, a crisp white shirt and a patterned tie – a polished, understated look befitting the Frasier star. Beside him, his daughter Faith brought a burst of color to the carpet in a flowing marigold-yellow dress embroidered with delicate floral motifs. The romantic silhouette featured flutter sleeves and soft draping, giving the ensemble movement and lightness. Nude heels kept the focus on the vivid gown, while her loose, natural hair and minimal jewellery added a youthful, unfussy finish.

TV star and medic Dr. Oz appeared in a classic black tuxedo, keeping his look traditional and refined with a white dress shirt and bow tie. Lisa Oz injected jewel-toned vibrancy into the carpet in a rich emerald satin gown featuring an off-the-shoulder neckline and softly ruched bodice. The fluid fabric created a flattering column silhouette, while a pearl necklace and matching earrings added timeless polish. Her voluminous waves framed her face beautifully, complementing the gown’s elegance. Together, the pair embodied old-school, polished sophistication on a night celebrating artistic excellence.

United States Attorney General Pam Bondi chose a minimalist, refined look in a chocolate-brown, floor-length gown with a structured collar detail. The long-sleeved silhouette created a sleek, uninterrupted line, while subtle texture in the bodice added quiet depth to the monochrome design. Softly styled blonde hair and classic pearl jewellery kept the overall effect clean and understated. 

First daughter Tiffany Trump embraced glamour in a deep emerald-green velvet gown with a fitted bodice, off-the-shoulder neckline and a thigh-high split adding dramatic appeal. A slim belt defined her waist, while silver platform heels and a sparkling metallic clutch brought high-impact shine. Her cascading waves and luminous makeup completed the luxurious look, balancing classic elegance with contemporary red-carpet drama. It was one of the standout jewel-tone moments of the evening – and perfectly suited the formal grandeur of the Kennedy Center Honors.