
New York Fashion Week saw many celebrities, but only one iconic first lady. Rama Duwaji, wife of newly inducted mayor Zohran Mamdani, stepped out in style to support the small, local brand Diotima. Not only did she sit front row in support of the queer designer Rachel Scott this show, but did the same for Diotima’s spring 2026 show.
Duwaji’s style doesn’t stop when she’s no longer near the runway, but struts its stuff on any occasion. As she fulfills her role as New York City’s first lady, Duwaji—much like her husband—is serving looks and her city. Here are a few of her most iconic outfits to date.
Destination Wedding
Not only did these young lovers meet on Hinge, but they got married at the scenic, romantic city clerk’s office. Opting for a personal photoshoot by Mamdani’s friend, Kara McCurdy, the couple was captured around the city celebrating their love. If all of this wasn’t untraditional enough, Duwaji’s wedding wear takes a whole new approach as well.
Sporting her increasingly popular bob and bangs look, Duwaji also adorns herself with swirling golden jewelry. She stacked three necklaces with a chic white scarf elegantly draped across her collar—matching her spaghetti-strapped, asymmetrical lace dress. This urbane take on bride attire is completed with her knee-high black leather boots.
Going against tradition and expectations is the norm for Duwaji and her novel style.
Voted Best Dressed
Before being elected, Duwaji and Mamdani were still dressing for success. Pictured here on their way to cast their ballots last election day, Duwaji sticks to a similarly sleek, yet artsy style. Wearing a knitted black dress, Duwaji accessorizes this plain garment to create an effortlessly stylish effect. Wearing her same stack of gold necklaces, the first lady opts for oversized hoops to match—plus a few golden bangles and gold-buckled belt.
Even if she decided to switch to silver, Duwaji would find a fashionable and elegant way to wear it. However, one thing she seems to always stick with is a trusty pair of black knee high boots.
Always Serving
Even when Rama Duwaji isn’t dressing for an occasion, she always manages to impress with her fashion taste. Like a lot of ladies out there, she’s never seen without her signature piece—her two gold necklaces.
Favoring darker and more natural shades in her fashion, Duwaji mixes black, brown and cream colors in this outfit. Her knee-length skirt features a swirling pattern to break up the black tank top and, you guessed it, black boots. Duwaji is always in vogue—adding other accessories like a thick pair of golden hoop earrings, a brown wooden bangle on one arm with a gold bracelet on the other.
What would you like to borrow from the first lady’s closet? Tell us how you’d style it @VALLEYmag! on X!