Spanish dance culture oozes sex appeal, and we secretly wonder if we could in any way pull it off. Thankfully, there are ways to incorporate that Flamenco sass into our everyday style without looking like we’re decked out for Halloween.
Flamenco music and dance is a strong part of the Spanish culture with roots dating back to the 18th century. The dance itself includes rhythmic stamping of the feet, as well as clapping, finger snapping and the use of castanets which accompany guitar playing and singing.
Flamenco style has been largely influenced by the Romani people of southern Spain, with designers such as John Galliano and Tom Ford drawing influence from their signature looks. Although it has inevitably changed over the years, the key elements of flamenco fashion remain as fierce as ever. Here’s how to incorporate a bit of the Spanish sex appeal into your everyday wardrobe…
FOR WOMEN
The Dresses
The flamenco inspired trumpet dress is ideal for showing off your curves and is a favourite with designer brands such as Marchesa, Balenciaga, Dior, Versace and Vera Wang. The style hails from the traditional and modest clothing of women in the Andalusian region and has been in widespread use for centuries.
The trumpet silhouette is feminine and flattering, and looks equally fabulous in shirt form as well. Red is often the colour of choice, representing strength, bravery, vitality and passion in flamenco style, not to mention adding the necessary sass and sex appeal.
Polka dot patterns are also a regular feature in Flamenco clothing so don’t be shy to add those dots to your wardrobe – you’ll be amazed at how flattering the spotty pattern can be to any shape of size.
Hair buns and accents
A low bun is a staple in flamenco style, and in your daily routine it can range from sophisticated to sultry to casual. Adding in a decorative flower or accent to your hair is a great way to add some flamenco flavour as well.
Rock those ruffles
The ruffle plays a key part in adding to the drama and speed of flamenco dance. In everyday life, ruffles can be more than a little intimidating to pull off, but there is definitely a more subtle way to incorporate them in your daily routine. Stick to ruffles on the skirt OR on the sleeves – the skirt and sleeves ruffle combo is a bit too much…
FOR MEN
Jackets and cropped pants
Bold prints and metallics have played a key part in men’s fashion for some time, with flamenco and pasodoble inspired jackets becoming a bold and trendy addition to both men’s and women’s wardrobes since being featured in fashion lines from H&M, Dolce and Gabbana and Ralph Lauren.The intricate patterns and embellishments are inspired by the costumes of traditional Spanish matadors or bull fighters, with the tailored, cropped jacket style ideal for that chic, Spanish inspired finish. The cropped pants and loafer combo is also super España , not to mention bang on trend.
Red and black classic
If a statement jacket isn’t your style, channel a traditional male flamenco dancer with a classic red tailored shirt and fitted black pants for a super simple and sexy look.
