Dress like a Spaniard

As I pack my suitcases to return to the United States, I can clearly see the influence of Spanish fashion on my wardrobe.

Fashion trends have become global, and Spaniards have that European edge that make their look so distinct. Here are a few of my observations throughout the year in Madrid.

1. Madrileños take pride in the way they dress and look on a daily basis, especially with their sharp street style. They may not be dressed up, but their casual wear is typically put together and sophisticated.


2. Athleisure - restricted for the gym only. No one ever wears leggings, sport/basketball shorts or Nike sneakers when leaving the house unless they are actually going to work out. This is a huge difference from the U.S. where athletic wear is seen everywhere at school and around town.

3. Fitted clothing - this applies to both genders. Guys tend to wear slim or skinny pants, and never sweatpants or baggy pants. Similarly, gals also wear skinny jeans and pair them with cute tops. In the winter, tight turtlenecks are extremely trendy, especially when paired with a cool belt buckle. When they opt for a looser sweater, they still achieve a fitted look by doing a "half in, half out" sweater tuck in their pants. This easy fashion trick comes in handy many times and makes every outfit, casual or fancy, slightly more edgy and put-together.

4. Scarves - worn by both genders and wrapped around the neck in cool or cold weather. Additionally, little scarves, called panuelos, are very popular and are tied in girl's ponytails or around their necks.



5. White jeans - a clothing staple all year round, although uber popular in the summer.

6. Sweater over the shoulder diagonally - the Spanish twist to the American preppy over the shoulder.


7. Bracelets - Children, teenagers and young adults love loading on the bracelets on their wrists.

8. Socks - Men wear socks with bold colors and cute motifs.


9. Party attire - When teenage guys go to a party, they all follow this dresscode: skinny pants, belt, button down shirt untucked, and shoes ranging from leather tie shoes to casual sneakers. Girls on the other hand tend to wear pants to fairly dressy outings. They usually pair them with a top (glittery ones are popular) or any loose blouse. These are comfortable outfits for all the dancing that will extend until the morning hours.


10. Jewelry - it's all about the earrings! The Spaniard's fun, dangly and colorful earrings are a staple jewelry piece that complete every outfit, casual or fancy.

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