Erika Kirk has truly been in the spotlight since her husband’s assassination.
Now, a photo of her taken just months before Charlie’s death is drawing attention, sparking conversation about how her appearance has changed.
The “Mar-a-Lago look”
The mother of two has made numerous public appearances showcasing what fans refer to as the “Mar-a-Lago look,” a style favored within Donald Trump’s circle. This aesthetic is characterized by full makeup, pronounced eyeshadow, glossy lips, and a meticulously styled blowout.
Comedian and content creator Suzanne Lambert, who gained popularity on TikTok for humorously critiquing the trend, elaborated on it in a 2025 interview with Glamour:
“There is no skin preparation involved. Therefore, no moisturizer is applied. If a primer is used, which is uncommon, […] it is probably a silicone-based primer that does not complement their water-based foundation.” She further noted that the foundation frequently fails to match the individual’s skin tone, leading to the undesirable “sunburnt look” due to selecting shades that are excessively warm. “They also seem to disregard sunscreen,” Lambert quipped.
Currently, a photograph of a young Erika Kirk underscores the significant transformation in her makeup routine since her marriage to Charlie and her full adoption of the MAGA aesthetic. In the past, she utilized considerably less foundation and eyeliner — to the extent that she was nearly unrecognizable compared to her present appearance.
Some observers have posited that Erika’s makeup selections signify a change in her public image, while detractors accuse her of exploiting her late husband’s death for personal or political advantage. Following her ascension to the position of CEO of Turning Point USA after Charlie’s demise, Erika has encountered inquiries regarding her intentions.
The photograph in question was captured in March 2025, six months prior to Charlie being fatally shot at a public event. In this image, Erika is seen with minimal makeup — merely mascara, foundation, and defined brows — a stark contrast to the heavy glam she sports today.
Fans noted the contrast:
“After her husband passed away, she began to wear more makeup. Quite intriguing…” remarked one user on Instagram.
Another user commented, “In this photo, she appears very natural…” while a third user stated, “Erika is far too beautiful to mask her true self with excessive makeup! I fail to comprehend why she conceals her genuine beauty with so much makeup?! It gives her a resemblance to Tammy Faye.”
Reflecting on her upbringing, Erika recounted that she was a tomboy during her childhood.
“People often mistook me for a little boy because I wore Jordans and various types of athletic attire,” she explained. However, as she matured, she began to embrace makeup, stating, “Having been such a tomboy throughout my life, it was a revelation to realize, ‘Oh, I can curl my hair, I can apply mascara.’ I simply experienced a delayed blooming phase.”
Nevertheless, Erika Kirk does not always adhere to a fully glamorous appearance. The CEO of Turning Point USA recently made an appearance to promote — what else? — her Biblein365 app and to motivate her followers to engage in her year-long devotional challenge. In a recent post on Instagram Stories, she donned a cap and oversized sunglasses, her blonde hair flowing freely, appearing rejuvenated and unexpectedly radiant without the burden of heavy makeup.
It represents a refreshing departure from her typical full-face glam, prompting speculation about whether Erika should consider a hiatus from her makeup artist. Like numerous women within MAGA circles, the former beauty queen has wholeheartedly adopted the so-called Republican makeup trend, which has surged in popularity in recent years.
However, it appears that Erika is entirely satisfied with her appearance — disregarding the critics. Moreover, these detractors have not limited their comments to her makeup; they have also scrutinized other facets of her life.
In January 2026, Erika posted a video reflecting on her marriage, four months following Charlie’s death.
“Over these past four months, I have come to realize that what we established at home was even more significant than I had understood at the time. We were focused on our mission, presenting a united front, as we were first and foremost committed to our covenant,” she conveyed to her nearly 7 million followers on Instagram.
The post attracted backlash, with some accusing her of exploiting her husband’s death. “RIP Charlie. Erika, you are suspicious as hell,” one individual remarked.
Another commenter stated, “Something deep within me suggests that something is amiss with Erika – I am certain I am not the only one who perceives this.”
Earlier this month, Erika also sought a prompt trial for Tyler Robinson, the Utah man accused of murdering Charlie. Her attorney contended that Robinson’s defense team had caused “unwarranted” delays. Robinson is set to appear in court again on February 3, facing several charges, including aggravated murder, with prosecutors pursuing the death penalty if he is found guilty.
