image credit: mariolavaldivia
Spain’s biggest cultural exports may be tapas and flamenco, but look a little closer and you’ll see that the country is an underrated fashion capital. Spain is home to major brands, from mega-retailer Zara to designer names like Balenciaga. There are also a slew of emerging or lesser-known (outside of the Iberian Peninsula, at least) fashion labels that are helping to shape Spanish style. And, depending on your personal aesthetic and preferences, you might even say that Spanish fashion is better than classic French style.
The basics of everyday Spanish fashion
There’s no denying the influence of French fashion, but just south of France’s border, you’re just as likely to find style inspo in Spain. The two countries, being so close to each other, tend to borrow trends and designers from one another, and, as is the case anywhere in the world, fashion in either place isn’t homogeneous. You’ll see a range of clothing styles both within and between regions of France and Spain. However, in general, Spanish style tends to be a bit more laid-back and bohemian compared to the quintessential French look.
That said, don’t mistake the meaning of “laid-back.” Women in Spain tend to prioritize elegance and being put-together, even if the final product appears relaxed. You’re unlikely to find athleisure and sweats worn simply for the purpose of being comfortable or practical. If casual pieces, like sneakers, are part of an outfit, they were chosen intentionally and balanced with polished or feminine garments. And, chances are, those sneakers will be free of dirt and come with an artsy colorway or bold design.
In Spain, getting dressed is a form of expression, and there’s little pressure to fit in. Experimentation and playful whimsy are appreciated in a way that might appear childish on the streets of Paris. You can expect to see rich colors, fun prints and patterns, and slightly flamboyant details. You’ll also likely notice more flowy blouses and dresses than on the streets of French cities. The hot temps in Spain might play a part in this — roomier garments allow better airflow in the summer — but rather than just looking sensible, these outfits in Spain appear subtly romantic.
Outfit inspiration from Spain’s best-dressed
Stroll down the streets of Barcelona or Madrid and you’ll see that the locals don’t follow strict rules when it comes to getting dressed — which is exactly what makes Spanish style so inspiring. However, if you want some outfit examples from Spain’s fashion girlies, look no further.
Where classic French style tends to favor crisp cuts and simple silhouettes, Spanish style embraces details such as fringing and billowy sleeves. And while French fashion icon Coco Chanel said to remove one item from your outfit before leaving the house, notice that this outfit embraces a little extra — hardware on the shoes, chunky hoop earrings, and a bold necklace – yet it doesn’t feel like overkill.
For your next summer evening out, take a cue from this look that fits right in on the streets of Spain. It’s elegant yet anything but boring with a bold print, sculptural sleeves, and statement accessories.
Just like in any other country, some Spaniards prefer neutrals over loud and proud prints and colors, but they still tend to add personal touches to keep the look fresh — such as this outfit. Peep the bright red handkerchief (you’ll see a lot of Spain’s most stylish women wearing small scarves and handkerchiefs around their necks) and whimsical glasses that balance out the more serious blacks and grays.
Broken down, this outfit is actually fairly simple, without a lot of competing details or bold accessories. Still, one thing women in Spain do well is choosing garments that, on their own, speak volumes. The tiered ruffles on the blouse and the poppy pink stripes on the pants offer plenty of flavor, without requiring fussy styling.
Are you noticing a theme with the ruffles? Perhaps the easiest way to emulate Spanish style is to swap basic tops with blouses in fun shapes and cuts. Another tip: Don’t shy away from bold patterns, like the one on these pants.
On hot days, a basic T-shirts-and-jeans combo is surprisingly hard to find in Spanish cities. Instead, the local fashion girlies may opt for loose garments and breathable linen pants to survive heat waves.
You’ll find white button-ups and jeans all over the world, but what gives this outfit its Spanish flair is the way it’s styled. The shirt is left partially unbuttoned for a relaxed fit, the necklaces are artfully layered, and there’s an intentional pop of color with the red sneakers and bag.
The eclectic mix of muted colors, plaid, and punchy red embroidery give this the bohemian, laid-back feel that Spanish style is known for. Also noteworthy: the layered necklaces, vintage belt, and fringe texture. Fashion in Spain embraces a more-is-more approach, yet in a way that remains relaxed, not gaudy.