Kai Trump may be just 18 years old, but the eldest grandchild of US President Donald Trump has already stirred up controversy in the fashion world after launching her debut clothing line.
Trump’s grandaughter’s KT Signature collection launched last Thursday following teaser announcements about a major reveal, featuring a pre-order of $130 pullover sweatshirts.
NFL enthusiasts were quick to notice that the logo embroidered on her inaugural pieces bears a striking resemblance to the branding that Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce has used for years. The news comes as Kai shows off little sister Chloe’s golf skills at first ever tournament.
On Instagram, Kai served as the collection’s only model, displaying 12 photos of the unisex sweatshirts available in white, navy, and black – with several shots captured outside the White House.
The garments also showcase her signature printed along the left sleeve above the wrist, reports the Irish Star.
“This collection is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time,” she posted to her 2.2 million followers while showcasing the item.
“From the quality of the fabric to the details in the designs, I wanted to create a piece that isn’t just merch but a staple you can wear anywhere. There are clean pieces you can mix, match, and make your own. I can’t wait to see how you style them.”
Her website indicates that the pre-order period will last for 10 days, with orders being manufactured and delivered four weeks afterward.
Customers’ payments were charged immediately through a business approach that sparked doubt since the products were not yet ready for delivery. But the scrutiny that really ignited social media was over her “KT” monogram logo, with a capital T positioned behind a K.
Detractors claimed it resembles “TK” rather than “KT,” which coincidentally matches Kelce’s initials.
Kelce’s initials appear in his apparel brand, “Tru Kolors,” a partnership with American Eagle, while sidestepping the brand’s “genes” controversy involving Sydney Sweeney. The collection launched with a remarkably similar logo featuring minor variations in letter connectivity, and also displays “TK” in the identical wrist location.
His wool-cashmere blend sweaters retail for $99.99, almost $30 cheaper than Trump’s inaugural sweatshirts.
Beyond the logo resemblance allegations, Kai faced backlash for not yet producing merchandise (accepting only pre-orders), particularly since the product website specified the organic cotton items would be manufactured in the USA.
Supporters quickly responded, with nearly everyone concurring that the logo seemed to be a near duplicate.
“The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” one posted on X. “Kai Trump used Travis Kelce’s Tru Kolors logo for her $130 sweatshirt’s logo.”
Another supporter declared, “Travis Kelce has long owned Tru Kolors and that brand logo for years. Trump’s granddaughter, Kai, stole his logo idea to hawk $130 sweatshirts off taxpayer-owned property.”
Kai was seen sporting the sweatshirt while jetting off on Trump’s private plane to the Ryder Cup, where Team Europe trounced the USA. She also showcased the merchandise while playing golf with him at his club, a move that critics argue could further muddy ethical boundaries.
