Why Melania Trump’s ‘red carpet’ for film premiere was actually black

Melania Trump is celebrating the release of her new movie documentary as she attended the premiere at the newly-renamed Trump-Kennedy Center on Thursday (29 January).

The First Lady, 55, attended the glitzy event in a buttoned skirt suit by Dolce and Gabbana, paired with matching stilettos.

She was joined by her husband, US President Donald Trump, 79, who wore a navy suit, holding hands with his wife as they posed together for pictures.

For those unfamiliar, the documentary is set to 'offers unprecedented access to the 20 days leading up to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration through the eyes of the First Lady herself'.

It's description reads that it invites audiences to step inside Melania Trump's world as 'she orchestrates inauguration plans, navigates the complexities of the White House transition, and moves her family back to the nation's capital'. The film will feature exclusive footage capturing critical meetings, private conversations, and never-before-seen environments.

Melania Trump opted for a black carpet rather than red at her documentary premiere (Craig Hudson/Variety via Getty Images)

The film’s premiere was also attended by top Trump administration officials, such as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

However, one detail caught the eyes of people around the world and left them confused - the colour of the red carpet.

The political couple strode onto a black - not red - carpet in front of a large backdrop with the word 'MELANIA'.

Commenting on the unusual choice, one confused Twitter user penned: "The red carpet for the MELANIA premiere tonight is, in fact, black."

While a second mused: "The red carpet is actually a black flooring, presumably to keep in colour coordination with the branding."

And a third wrote: "The black carpet is so much classier!"

While a journalist added: "I’m here as they’re (literally) rolling out the red, er, black carpet for tonight’s “Melania” premiere at the @kencen. Lots of press setting up here ahead of @FLOTUS and President Trump’s arrival in a few hours."

Others chimed in with: "Of course…her favourite colour!!" and "Beautiful clean charcoal".

But, it looks like there's actually a reason behind the choice - black carpets are becoming increasingly trendy and are sometimes deemed classier than traditional red.

An expert at Daniel Lay Event Services told Tyla that they're being chosen more due to their 'exclusive' and 'sleek' feel.

The events pro said: "Black carpets are becoming a leading luxury alternative to traditional red carpets, and at Daniel Lay Event Services - one of the leading providers of luxury event carpets, we’re seeing them chosen for their sleek, modern and exclusive feel.

An events expert has revealed that black carpets are becoming increasingly popular (Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

"They create an immediate sense of sophistication and work brilliantly with contemporary lighting, bold backdrops and are perfect for photos.

"Whether you’re holding a VIP occasion, themed event or product launch, Black carpets are a must have this year!"

Meanwhile, an article by redcarpets.com, also outlines that black carpets are becoming 'a refined alternative to traditional red'.

Their website reads: "While red carpets will always signal celebrity, black carpet runners offer a quieter, more intentional form of prestige. They feel deliberate rather than expected - ideal for events that aim to be memorable without spectacle.

"The result is an entrance that feels curated, not ceremonial by default."