Former Model Reflects on Shared Days in Paris
Long before Melania Trump became First Lady of the United States, she was a young model trying to build a career in Paris. Now, one of her former roommates has shared a glimpse into what those years were really like.
Victoria Silvstedt, the Swedish model and television personality, recently recalled living with Melania during their early days in the fashion industry. According to Silvstedt, the two developed a close friendship while navigating the challenges of modeling in one of the world’s most competitive cities.
‘We Stuck Together’
Silvstedt said she and Melania formed a strong bond while living together in Paris.
“We just stuck together. We were very, very supportive of each other. We’d actually stay home most of the time,” she recalled.
Rather than spending their days attending glamorous parties, the two aspiring models often focused on their careers and supported one another through the ups and downs of the industry.
A Strong Work Ethic
One detail that stood out to Silvstedt was Melania’s discipline and determination.
“Melania was very sweet, down to earth, but also so determined. She really wanted to make it. She has that very Slavic determination,” Silvstedt said.
She also remembered Melania’s commitment to fitness and self-improvement, recalling a humorous memory from their time together.
“She’d be like, ‘OK, now we’re running up the stairs to burn off the calories’ — after we’d had a tuna salad!”
According to Silvstedt, Melania often spoke about her admiration for screen icon Sophia Loren.
“I remember her saying one day, ‘I want to be like Sophia Loren.’ Look at her now, she does look like her. Her beauty is off-the-scale.”
An Unexpected Journey to the White House
Although the two eventually lost touch, Silvstedt said she never imagined her former roommate would one day become First Lady.
“I ran into her once in New York before she became first lady, but she never thought ever that she would become a first lady, you know? It’s crazy.”
Reflecting on Melania’s rise to the national stage, Silvstedt described it as remarkable.
“But she’s a strong woman, and very loving.”
Life Before Politics
Before entering public life, Melania built a successful international modeling career, working in several major fashion capitals. Her move to the United States ultimately led to a new chapter that few could have predicted.
Stories from those who knew her before the White House continue to draw public interest, offering rare insight into a period of her life that remains largely private.
Looking Back
For Silvstedt, the memories center less on politics and more on two young women pursuing ambitious dreams in Paris.
Decades later, she still remembers her former roommate as someone with determination, confidence, and a clear vision for the future. Her reflections provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at Melania Trump’s life long before she became one of the most recognizable women in the world.
