Melania Trump stuns in Dolce & Gabbana coat and Saint Laurent boots at Fort Bragg
FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA: First Lady Melania Trump joined President Donald Trump at Fort Bragg on February 13, 2026, to honor US troops involved in a high-profile operation in Venezuela. The first lady made a statement with her fashion choices, wearing a sophisticated Dolce & Gabbana coat paired with striking Saint Laurent boots, perfectly balancing elegance with a military-appropriate setting.
The visit highlighted the contributions of special operations forces in what the White House called Operation Absolute Resolve, the mission that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Hundreds of soldiers from the 18th Airborne Corps and 82nd Airborne Division attended the event to witness the recognition of their colleagues.
Melania Trump’s Fort Bragg outfit draws attention
Melania Trump chose a long beige double-breasted coat by Dolce & Gabbana, crafted from a wool-cashmere blend, featuring a subtle leopard-print lining. The coat, retailing around $4,000, combined sophistication with practicality for the outdoor event.
She paired the ensemble with bright red Saint Laurent Vivian leather boots, adding a bold pop of color. Square-frame Saint Laurent sunglasses completed her look, blending style with functionality as she interacted with service members.
Trump praises special forces for role in Maduro capture
President Trump praised the troops for their skill and courage during the mission in Venezuela. “Last month we proved this truth once again when some of our greatest soldiers, right here, successfully captured the outlaw dictator of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro,” he said, addressing hundreds of soldiers.
Trump described the operation as unprecedented in its precision and effectiveness. “Nobody ever saw anything like that happening,” he added, noting that a Venezuelan general at the site managed to escape while most others were apprehended. The ceremony included rounds of applause and selfies as soldiers celebrated the recognition of their comrades’ achievements.
Trump vows increased funding and support for US military
Fort Bragg is home to the Joint Special Operations Command, which led the operation. Officials noted the mission’s meticulous planning, including rehearsals in full-scale replicas of Maduro’s compound.
Trump also pledged continued investment in the US military, including $1 trillion in funding and procurement of 30 upgraded Abrams tanks. His lighthearted remarks about moving to Fort Bragg with the first lady drew laughter from the audience, adding a celebratory tone to the event. Overall, the visit underscored the administration’s focus on honoring elite troops while highlighting the first lady’s signature style.
