Melania Trump is widely recognized as a former First Lady of the United States, a successful former model, and the wife of Donald Trump. But behind the international spotlight and public appearances is a deeply personal story rooted in family—especially in the enduring bond she shares with her older sister, Ines Knauss.
Born Melanija Knavs in the small Slovenian town of Sevnica, Melania grew up in a modest yet nurturing household. Her parents, Viktor and Amalija, emphasized discipline, creativity, and the importance of family. Viktor worked in the automotive trade, while Amalija brought home fabrics and ideas from her job as a pattern-maker at a children’s clothing factory—often inspiring her daughters to explore their artistic side.
Melania and Ines were inseparable during their childhood. They spent hours sketching designs, sharing dreams, and learning from their mother’s refined sense of style. It was a time Melania would later describe as “beautiful,” shaped not just by the quiet charm of her hometown but also by her close relationship with her sister.
That bond only deepened as life took Melania on a dramatic path toward international recognition. At the age of 16, a chance meeting with photographer Stane Jerko launched her into the world of modeling. Soon, she was traveling through Europe’s fashion capitals and later to the United States. While Melania pursued modeling full-time, Ines remained a steady and supportive presence behind the scenes.
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