In Madrid and across Spain, a growing cultural movement among young conservatives is redefining traditional fashion and politics under the label “Cayetano.” Characterized by preppy clothing such as loafers, fitted cropped pants, quilted vests, and Barbour jackets, the Cayetanos have emerged as a prominent youth counterculture opposing Spain’s nearly decade-long left-wing government.

The term “Cayetano,” once used pejoratively to mock upper-class conservatives, has been reclaimed by young people who embrace Spain’s aristocratic traditions alongside conservative social values. The movement has been associated with a renewed pride in national customs like bullfighting and the Catholic Church, and expresses concern that modern feminism, multiculturalism, and “woke” politics threaten Spain’s historical identity.

The cultural presence of the Cayetanos is increasingly visible in political rallies, cultural events, and even the workplace. Their aesthetic spans from Spain’s well-established conservative circles to the far-right Vox party, known for its anti-immigration stance. The Cayetano style also featured prominently in antigovernment protests during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in affluent Madrid neighborhoods.

Musically, the movement gained traction with the rise of the band Avenida, whose viral hit “Cayetano” celebrates the style and identity embraced by young conservatives. Though the song is a cover of a track originally used to ridicule the group’s supporters, Avenida’s appropriation signals the movement’s growing confidence and visibility in Spanish popular culture.

Supporters portray the Cayetano identity as a response to what they view as the erosion of Spain’s traditional values. Gonzalo Fernández de Heredia, a 22-year-old self-described Cayetano, cited pride in heritage, including bullfighting and religious observance, as core to their outlook. Female adherents also stress the style as both an aesthetic and a worldview.

However, the movement has drawn criticism from liberals and government officials, who express concern that its rise reflects a broader resurgence of right-wing nationalism and echoes troubling support among young people for the dictatorship of Francisco Franco. A 2023 poll cited by critics noted increased approval for Francoist rule among Spanish youth, fueling fears that the Cayetano resurgence could undermine democratic norms. Conversely, many Cayetanos reject accusations of racism or intolerance and argue they are simply defending civil liberties and cultural heritage.

Historically, the Cayetano style draws from a 19th-century Andalusian aristocratic tradition influenced by English landed gentry fashion, combining elements such as hunting jackets and open-collared shirts. Fashion historians note the look has long been associated with conservative social classes, though today it extends beyond strictly elite circles and has become an emblem of generally right-leaning youth identity.

Bullfighting arenas in Madrid have become focal points for the Cayetano movement’s social expression. At Las Ventas, Spain’s most famous bullring, groups of young people in Cayetano attire often use bullfighting events as opportunities for socializing, turning the arenas into political and cultural meeting places. The management at Las Ventas has actively encouraged this trend by establishing post-event gatherings to attract younger audiences, successfully reversing years of decline in attendance. Recent events have seen high-profile figures such as Vox leader Santiago Abascal attending, further intertwining bullfighting with conservative politics.

While many young participants openly support Vox, the ideological alignment is not universal. Some self-identified Cayetanos express political diversity, with one young attendee noting his preference for the Socialist Party despite embracing the Cayetano style.

As the Cayetano movement continues to evolve, it represents a growing youth affirmation of traditionalist values blended with a renewed conservative fashion sensibility, amid Spain’s ongoing political and cultural debates.