In the world of high politics, even the smallest wardrobe detail can become a tool of communication, and Spanish officials are no exception. The appearance of women in power is often scrutinized, and while this can be seen as sexist, politicians themselves frequently use fashion to shape their public image. A standout example is Yolanda Díaz, the Minister of Labor, whose style is often described as meticulous, creating an intriguing contrast with her communist views. Her outfits, reminiscent of a librarian or schoolteacher, have repeatedly been dissected by fashion critics. For her love of clothing, she has even earned the nickname “Fashionaria”—a witty blend of the English word “fashion” and a nod to the legendary Spanish communist Dolores Ibárruri, known as La Pasionaria.
Yolanda Díaz’s fashion choices are usually highly praised. That was the case at the reception in the Royal Palace on Spain’s National Day, where she appeared in a black-and-white dress by Coosy, and at the Planeta Prize ceremony, where she wore a red pantsuit with a cape from the same brand. The Minister of Labor rarely makes style missteps, which is why a recent incident that became a news story in its own right seems particularly unusual.
The events unfolded one evening when Díaz attended a National Ballet performance in Madrid with her daughter Carmela. The minister’s appearance once again drew praise. She wore an elegant dark blue, midi-length skirt made from shimmering fabric, paired with a matching cardigan featuring original bow-shaped clasps. Her 13-year-old daughter Carmela opted for a strict, unusual look for a teenager: a black bandeau top over a white shirt and black trousers. It was clear the girl had inherited her mother’s sense of style.
However, just a few days later, a photo of the mother and daughter sparked heated discussion. Public attention focused on Carmela’s accessory—a handbag. During a morning TV show, one of the journalists raised the question of where the girl’s bag came from. It was the popular The Tote Bag by Marc Jacobs, in this case, the basic beige fabric version. In the official store, such an item costs about 550 euros. However, as the host pointed out, referring to information from social media, you can find a similar model online for just 42 euros. After a brief debate over whether the bag was secondhand or not, the studio concluded that it was most likely a counterfeit. Journalists emphasized that the main issue was not the price, but the fact that the daughter of a high-ranking official appeared in public with a fake bag, thereby encouraging counterfeiting.
This is not the only instance when the Díaz family has attracted increased public attention. Their recent trip to Sweden also raised questions. Since it was an official visit by the minister, the presence of her daughter sparked debate about mixing personal and state affairs. Díaz herself commented on the situation on social media, saying that sharing the trip with Carmela was her greatest joy and a source of comfort amid a hectic schedule.
