Melania Takes Charge!

With five months as first lady under her belt, Melania Trump is settling into her role — and stepping up on the world stage

When her husband, Donald Trump, was sworn in as president in January, a smiling, radiant Melania Trump couldn’t have looked happier to be by his side — or more eager to embrace her new duties. But then she vanished, hiding out in their New York City penthouse instead of moving into the White House, and skipping one ceremony after another. Melania, it seemed, would be a first lady in absentia.

But after wowing the world on her first official trip abroad in May and preparing for her June 11 move to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Melania is finally ready to make her mark. “The idea of being in the spotlight as first lady was frightening for Melania at first, because she’s reserved and treasures her privacy,” says a friend. “But her trip overseas with Donald boosted her confidence and helped her realize what a positive impact she can have in her position — if she uses it wisely.”