Trump’s Press Secretary Slams China — While Wearing a Shirt Made in China by a Malaysian Designer
Karoline Leavitt, the press secretary for former US President Donald Trump, is facing online backlash after netizens noticed the irony behind her outfit choice during a recent press briefing.
While strongly defending Trump’s decision to double down on tariffs against Chinese imports, Leavitt was reportedly wearing a designer shirt that was made in China — and designed by a Malaysian fashion figure.
“President Trump Is Tough on China”
During a press conference, Leavitt stated:
“President Trump is very firm on China. Billions of dollars in tariffs have already been imposed.”
While the statement was intended to highlight Trump’s strict trade policy, attention quickly shifted to Leavitt’s outfit — a shirt from Self-Portrait, a British fashion brand with garments manufactured in China.
Designed by a Malaysian, Worn by America
Even more fascinating? The shirt’s designer is Han Chong, a Malaysian-born fashion creator from Penang, who founded the London-based Self-Portrait brand.
According to The Cut, the shirt is estimated to cost USD376 (approximately RM1,660) and is embellished with crystal details — bringing unexpected irony to Leavitt’s anti-China rhetoric.
Social Media Reacts: “Accusing China, But Wearing China”
The moment didn’t go unnoticed online.
A Chinese diplomat even reposted the image on platform X (formerly Twitter), saying:
“Accusing China is business. Buying from China is life.”
The fashion watchdog account Diet Prada also weighed in, confirming the authenticity of the shirt and noting that this wasn’t the first time American political figures were caught making contradictory fashion choices.
Leavitt’s Supporters Push Back
Some Trump supporters defended Leavitt, claiming the shirt might have been a replica or “fake” version made to look like the real Self-Portrait design.
However, industry insiders confirmed it was an original piece, made in China — just like many other items worn by Western political figures despite ongoing trade tensions.
