Thursday, September 23, 2026 - Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani is facing strong criticism after remarks suggesting that women who wear longer skirts are more reliable marriage partners and better mothers.
Speaking at a political event in Formello, near Rome, Tajani said he would advise his son to choose a “less flashy” and more serious woman, adding that a slightly longer skirt could be a sign of stability and reliability.
The comments quickly triggered reactions from opposition politicians and women online, with critics arguing that a woman’s clothing does not determine her character, commitment or ability to be a mother.
Former Turin mayor Chiara Appendino joined the response by posting a photograph of herself in a miniskirt and questioning whether that made her less trustworthy or less capable of motherhood.
Tajani has since apologised to women who felt offended, saying he never intended to insult women and that his remarks had been misunderstood.
The controversy, however, continues to generate political and public debate in Italy, putting renewed attention on how public officials speak about women, relationships and personal choices.
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