Ivana Trump’s Incredible Journey: From Czech Ski Slopes to New York’s Power Scene
Ivana Trump: A Life of Grit, Glamour, and Reinvention. Born Ivana Zelníčková in 1949 in what is now the Czech Republic, Ivana’s early years were shaped by a strict socialist regime. But instead of being confined by it, she broke free—on skis. As a competitive skier on the national Olympic training team, she developed the focus, resilience, and courage that would fuel her future.
Her path to the West began with a brief marriage to an Austrian skier, opening doors to the modeling world. With elegance and ambition, she made waves in Montreal, then took on New York with style and presence.
In the late ’70s, Ivana met Donald Trump. They married in 1977 and quickly became a power couple. But Ivana wasn’t just arm candy—she was a driving force behind the Trump empire, serving as VP of Interior Design and later as President of The Plaza Hotel.
Her iconic style—big hair, bold looks—was more than fashion. It was strategy. She proved that femininity and power could coexist in the boardroom.
After a high-profile divorce in 1992, Ivana didn’t fade—she thrived. With a $25 million settlement, she launched fashion lines, cosmetics, and bestselling books. Her memoir Raising Trump offered insight into life, motherhood, and business.
Even in later years, Ivana remained true to herself—owning her look, her age, and her narrative. She lived life boldly, whether in Saint-Tropez or in the spotlight.
Ivana Trump wasn’t just a public figure—she was a self-made icon. Her legacy is one of strength, style, and reinvention, showing that real power lies in owning your story and never backing down.
