For the first time since 2020, the official photograph from the parade in honor of Hispanidad Day showed the royal family in full. King Felipe and Queen Letizia, accompanied by Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia—this appearance was long-awaited, as the princesses’ studies had long prevented them from attending such celebrations.
Their appearance was undoubtedly the highlight of the day. Queen Letizia embodied elegance in her emerald tweed dress with French sleeves and a subtle black belt accentuating her waist. The look was complemented by delicate emerald earrings and her loose hair—simply impeccable. The King looked flawless as always in the ceremonial uniform of the Navy. Princess Leonor, dressed in the Air Force uniform, appeared dignified and formal. Since coming of age, she, like her father, wears the sky-blue sash of the Order of Carlos III.
However, the outfit of the younger Infanta Sofia raised some questions. Her polka-dot Carolina Herrera dress was charming on its own, but paired with a black cape coat, it gave her a more mature look that seemed somewhat out of place for a morning official ceremony. Still, compared to some politicians, this is hardly a misstep—perhaps rather a reason for a friendly tip: youth is about fresh boldness, and not every imposed recommendation needs to be followed unquestioningly.
The political scene, in turn, showcased a wide range of stylistic choices—from outstanding to outright disastrous. For instance, Yolanda Díaz’s black-and-white dress was divine, but only when viewed as a full silhouette. In close-ups, it risked appearing simply black, which is not always suitable for a morning event. However, this time, the outfit became a curious reflection of the somber moment Spanish politics is experiencing. This impression was only heightened by the disapproving murmur from the crowd as Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez appeared.
Providing a pleasant contrast was the president of Extremadura, who opted for simplicity and made the right choice. Her dark blue midi skirt paired with a white blazer and belt exemplified understated elegance.
However, not everyone could boast good taste. It’s hard to say what was more off-putting: Minister Montero’s white-and-salmon outfit or her black rococo ensemble she wore for Pope Francis’s memorial ceremony. It seems her wardrobe is beyond saving. As for her body language, an essential part of a public image, there’s hardly anything more to say. Even Minister Margarita Robles, usually impeccable at such ceremonies, made a misstep this year. Her printed dress was caught somewhere between spring informality and the mood of waning summer, completely at odds with the Madrid autumn atmosphere.
Apparently, the same thought occurred to the President of the Madrid Community, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, whose recent public appearances have been quite successful. However, to be honest, I didn’t find today’s outfit—with its Bardot neckline—particularly appropriate. The intricate draping at the waist was also puzzling; its purpose remained a mystery.
