The historic swearing-in of Zohran Mamdani as New York City's new mayor was swiftly overshadowed online by an unexpected topic: his wife's choice of footwear. While the democratic socialist leader took his oath at a midnight ceremony in the abandoned City Hall Subway station, social media users quickly pivoted from policy to fashion, scrutinizing the boots worn by artist Rama Duwaji.
The Boots That Stole The Headlines
In widely circulated photos from the atmospheric event, Rama Duwaji was seen wearing a pair of sleek black boots. Fashion magazine Vogue later identified them as the 'Shelley Boots' from designer brand Miista. The brand confirmed the boots feature a 6-centimeter (2.3-inch) heel and a lace-up back, with a retail price of $630 per pair.
Once the price point became public knowledge, a wave of criticism followed. The conversation centered on the perceived contradiction between the expensive footwear and Mamdani's political identity, which is built on advocacy for affordability and a more accessible New York. The dramatic, stylish setting of the abandoned subway station only amplified the scrutiny.
Social Media Erupts: Champagne Socialists or Unfair Scrutiny?
The online reaction was sharply divided, creating a fresh debate over optics, wealth, and symbolism in politics.
One camp launched pointed critiques. "Tough being a socialist when boots cost more than my rent," wrote one user. Another commented, "Wealthy communists. It’s always the case. Should surprise no one." A third used the familiar label, "We don't call them Champagne Communists for nothing."
However, a strong contingent rushed to Duwaji's defense, arguing the criticism was misogynistic and overblown. "She dressed up for the biggest moment in her husband's life, oh the horror," a user stated, adding, "I must have missed the $50,000 watch or $30,000 bracelets I see on MAGA women like Kristi Noem."
Another defender argued, "$630 for a shoe at a NYC mayoral signing is not a flex... anything less would be disrespect to the city." A further comment questioned the premise: "and the problem is? Acting like she bought em with government money or something."
A Recurring Fashion Narrative
This is not the first time Rama Duwaji's sartorial choices have drawn attention during her husband's political rise. She has cultivated a distinct, modernist style that is frequently noted online.
During Mamdani's victory speech in November, she stood beside him wearing a dark denim square-neck top by Palestinian-Jordanian designer Zeid Hijazi. This was paired with a black skirt from Ulla Johnson and statement dangling earrings by New York City jewelry designer Eddie Borgo.
In a past interview with The Cut, Duwaji openly embraced her interest in style, saying, "I love fashion, and I love being creative and putting things together and styling things." Her consistent fashion-forward appearances have made her a recurring figure of discussion, long before the mayoral race was decided.
The incident highlights how the personal lives and choices of political families, especially their consumption habits, become instant fodder for public debate in the age of social media, often diverting focus from substantive policy discussions.
