Spain is known for its rich cultural heritage, colourful traditional dresses, and elegant modern fashion. But what do people in Spain actually wear?
In this post, we’ll explore:
✅ Traditional Spanish dresses and their names 🏵️
✅ The dress code in Spain for different occasions 👠
✅ The most popular clothing items in Spain today 👕
✅ What "fashion" is called in Spanish 🛍️
¡Vamos a descubrir la moda española!
What are Spanish traditional dresses called? 👗💃
Spain has a variety of traditional dresses, each linked to different regions and celebrations. Here are some of the most famous:
🌹 Flamenco dress (Traje de flamenca / Traje de gitana)
Worn during ferias (fairs) and flamenco performances.
Recognizable by its tight fit, ruffled skirt, and vibrant colours.
Accessories include flowers in the hair, shawls, and large earrings.
👔 Traje de luces (Suit of lights)
The traditional bullfighter’s outfit known for its gold embroidery and intricate details.
One of the most iconic cultural symbols of Spain.
👑 Fallera dress (Traje de fallera)
Worn during Las Fallas festival in Valencia.
Features a full, silk skirt, embroidered bodice, and elaborate hairstyles.
🏵️ Charro suit (Traje charro)
Typical of Salamanca and inspired by Spanish horsemen (charros).
Includes a fitted jacket, embroidered trousers, and a wide-brimmed hat.
🧐 Did you know? The Spanish mantilla, a lace veil worn over a high comb (peineta), is another classic piece of Spanish traditional fashion!
What is the dress code in Spain? 👠👕
Spain has a stylish but relaxed approach to fashion. While traditions influence special events, daily clothing is generally modern and casual
☀️ Casual wear
Spaniards prefer elegant but comfortable clothes.
Jeans, linen shirts, and dresses are common, especially in warm weather.
🏢 Work attire
In offices, smart-casual is the norm,
though some industries require formal wear.
Spaniards often wear neutral tones, well-fitted jackets, and polished shoes.
🍸 Going out (Nightlife & restaurants)
Spaniards dress up for social events! Expect to see heels, stylish shirts, and accessories when going to a nice dinner or party.
🏖️ Beachwear
Swimwear is only for the beach – walking around shirtless or
in a bikini outside the beach is seen as inappropriate.
🧐 Tip for visitors: Shorts and flip-flops are fine for the beach, but in big cities like Madrid or Barcelona, locals tend to dress more elegantly!
What is the most popular Spanish clothing? 🛍️
Fashion trends in Spain blend traditional elements with modern influences. Some of the most popular clothing pieces include:
Linen and cotton clothes 👚– Perfect for Spain’s warm climate.
Sunglasses and accessories 🕶️– Spaniards love a stylish touch!
Trendy sneakers (Zapatillas de moda) 👟 – A must-have for everyday outfits.
Tailored blazers 🧥 – A key piece in both men’s and women’s wardrobes.
Flowy dresses and skirts 👗 – Ideal for casual but stylish looks.
🇪🇸 Famous Spanish fashion brands
👜 Zara – Spain’s most famous fashion brand, known for trendy and affordable styles.
👠 Mango – Offers elegant and contemporary designs.
👝 Adolfo Domínguez – High-quality tailored clothing
👞 Camper – Stylish and comfortable Spanish footwear.
💡 Fashion tip: Spaniards love coordinating outfits and prefer a chic, effortless look rather than overly flashy styles.
Let's go shopping! Check on our reel to learn exactly what to say when talking to a shop assistant 👀👇
What is fashion called in Spain?
If you want to talk about fashion in Spanish, here are some useful words:
✅ Moda – Fashion
✅ Tendencias – Trends
✅ Ropa – Clothes
✅ Diseñador/a de moda – Fashion designer
✅ Pasarela – Runway
✅ Estilo – Style
✅ Conjunto – Outfit
🧐 Fun fact: Spain hosts Madrid Fashion Week, one of the most important fashion events in Europe!
Spain’s fashion scene is a blend of tradition and modern elegance. From the iconic flamenco dress to trendy Spanish streetwear, there’s something for everyone!
🚀 Want to learn more Spanish vocabulary? Check out our others posts 👇.
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💬 What do you think of Spanish fashion? Would you wear a traditional Spanish dress? Tell us in the comments below!