Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to take a more formal approach in his attire during an upcoming meeting with former President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. This change comes after he faced criticism for his casual wardrobe choices in previous meetings.
According to Ukrainian designer Elvira Gasanova, who has worked with Zelenskyy in the past, he is likely to opt for a black military suit or a military-style shirt paired with trousers for this significant encounter. Gasanova noted that after the backlash regarding his relaxed attire, Zelenskyy will aim for a more serious presentation.
During a previous visit to the Oval Office in February, Zelenskyy faced pointed questions about his clothing choices. One reporter asked him why he didn’t wear a suit given the importance of his position, sparking discussions about his image amidst a time of conflict for Ukraine.
Interestingly, Zelenskyy does not have a personal stylist, which sets him apart from many political figures. Gasanova, who has created various pieces for both Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska, mentioned that the president’s busy schedule often makes it challenging to fit in custom fittings, and the stress of his role has affected his appearance over time.
This meeting follows a recent summit where Trump discussed the ongoing war in Ukraine with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The upcoming discussions are expected to be pivotal as the U.S. navigates its relationship with both Ukraine and Russia.
As Zelenskyy prepares for this meeting, the world will be watching closely — not just for what is said, but also for the image he presents as he continues to lead Ukraine during these turbulent times.
