French Minister Françoise Gatel defends attire amid controversy

Françoise Gatel, the French Minister of Territorial Development, has defended her choice of clothing following criticism over a 650-euro Italian-brand tunic featuring ostrich feathers. The controversy arose after she was photographed wearing the sleeveless green floral top following a crisis meeting at Matignon on October 19 regarding recent civil unrest.

LFI deputy Marie Mesmeur criticized the outfit on social media, characterizing it as a symbol of class disconnection and contempt during a period of national tension marked by riots and looting.

In response to the criticism, Gatel dismissed the focus on her appearance, stating that her outfit was not “undignified” and that she had spent her day focusing on essential government business, including the finance law and supporting mayors affected by recent violence.