Melania Trump's Memoir and the Inspiration for Chinese Women to Become Brave, Independent, and Confident

Melania Trump's Memoir and the Inspiration for Chinese Women to Become Brave, Independent, and Confident

February 20, 2025 – Joyce Yip, a 39-year-old entrepreneur from Guangzhou, Southern China, has a new celebrity crush: Melania Trump. The two-time First Lady has gained massive popularity online in China, especially among women. Despite her husband's antagonistic stance toward China, social media posts highlight admiration for her independence, her taste in fashion, and how she raises her teenage son.

What has contributed to the growing admiration for Melania Trump, especially in light of her husband's misogynistic comments, extramarital affair allegations, and civil suit findings in New York, is her steadfast commitment and courage, which has made her a symbol of strength for Chinese women.

Joyce Yip said, "She looks so powerful, majestic, and resolute. I absolutely love it." After the inauguration last month, when Melania wore a wide-brimmed hat, it quickly started selling online, and influencers on social media began sharing videos showing people how to make their own within 48 hours.

In China's traditional society, where women are generally expected to support their husbands and focus on raising children, Melania Trump's independence and modernity have made her particularly appealing to Chinese fans.

A four-year-old video of Melania refusing to hold her husband's hand as they disembarked from Air Force One has received more than 5 million "likes" on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, and continues to garner views and comments.

Many fans admire her confident demeanor and deep love for her son. Ge Yahan, a 24-year-old from Zibo on China's eastern coast, views Melania as a mysterious woman who had the courage to follow her dreams from a small town in Slovenia to the United States.

Additionally, Melania Trump's new memoir is gaining traction online, with some Chinese citizens illegally translating and selling copies for 8 yuan (approximately $1.10).

Despite Donald Trump's strong criticism of China's economic policies, Chinese people often view U.S. politics as a soap opera, where leaders' personal lives become an intriguing subject of interest.

The growing attraction to Melania on social media platforms signals a social and cultural shift, with a powerful female leader, a reflection of Melania Trump's character, becoming a role model for Chinese women.