Once sworn in, she arrived in Athens and began attending high-profile receptions and diplomatic meetings. (Photo: X)
When the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce held its Thanksgiving dinner in Athens this week, it expected a formal, reserved evening, but instead all eyes turned to the outfit of the US ambassador.
That honour belongs to Kimberly Guilfoyle, who walked in wearing a full-length black lace gown that critics have called more suitable for a fashion show than a diplomatic event.
Guilfoyle, 56, rose to prominence as a prosecutor and as a media personality on American television. In 2025, she became the first woman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Greece, after being confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
Once sworn in, she arrived in Athens and began attending high-profile receptions and diplomatic meetings.
The black lace gown featured a collared neckline, full sleeves, and a skin-tone underlayer. However, under bright event lights — and especially during her speech — the gown appeared semi-transparent, drawing sharp criticism. Many observers said it seemed too revealing and out of place for a diplomatic function.
Social media lit up soon after the video of Guilfoyle at the podium circulated. Comments ranged from stunned to scathing, “What’s with the outfit? It looks like something you’d wear to do a duet with Cher, not to host a Thanksgiving dinner as the US Ambassador to Greece,” one user wrote.
“What on earth went through her head when she planned that outfit,” wrote another.
Some called the dress beautiful — but still “not appropriate for this occasion.”
A more blunt reaction read: “Good grief. This dress is inappropriate at a function where she’s representing the United States.”
Supporters of Guilfoyle argue that personal style and modern diplomacy are not mutually exclusive. They say that strong personalities bring visibility — and maybe a new kind of diplomacy. Critics counter that diplomacy demands discretion and decorum, especially when representing a nation at a formal gathering. The incident has reignited debate over whether fashion choices can undermine (or redefine) diplomatic norms.
Context: a newly arrived ambassador making headlines
Guilfoyle’s arrival in Athens was anything but low-key. She presented her credentials to the Greek President in early November 2025, marking the start of her tenure as U.S. Ambassador.
In the days that followed, she attended welcome events — including a music-night gala where she danced traditional Greek dances — and met with top Greek officials.
For many Greeks and Americans alike, these public appearances were meant to signal a new, modern chapter — but the Thanksgiving dinner has complicated that narrative.
