Dress
When many people think of traditional Spanish dress they immediately think of the
brightly-colored and flowing dresses found in Andalusian and on flamenco dancers,
but this is just one style among many in Spain's history. In fact, Spain has
almost always been a leader in the fashion industry and trying to peg a single design
or outfit as being more traditional than another is a mistake. It was the Spanish
who invented, or at least encouraged the spread of, hoop skirts (farthingales),
the fan-shaped standing collar (wisk), the capotain, which is
similar to the top hat or bowler, capes, corsets, and of course the Andalusian dresses.
Today, most people consider the Andalusian dresses and styles to be the "traditional
dress," but this was not worn by many people in the past or today.
Today many of the local and better-known traditional outfits of Spain are still
present, but not for everyday wear. Flamenco dancers and bull fighters continue
to wear these outfits as do other performers. Today, most people wear modern western-styled
clothes, some of which was originally influenced from these historic Spanish outfits.
No matter the style, the Spaniards tend to remain fashionable and on the verge of
new styles and designs.
As a visitor to Spain any western-styled clothing is acceptable, but trying a new
fashion may get you a great reaction as everyone is always looking at the dress
of others... of course if your attempt fails you may get plenty of strange looks.
No matter what you wear, the Spaniards are tolerant of various styles and are quite
liberal in the sense that shorts and short-sleeved shirts are well accepted, as
are tight-fitting clothes, although try to avoid wearing anything that is too revealing.
Lastly, sunbathing naked or women sunbathing topless is only permitted in certain
places so always be sure to know where this is allowed before doing so.