The flamenco dress

This flamboyant, gorgeous dress is as much part of a flamenco show as the singing or dancing. The ruffles seem to come alive and move by themselves when you watch the dancer move around the stage. Probably just like every girl, I was also curious about these colourful dresses. On the week before the Feria (read more about the fiesta here) I was chatting to one of my flatmates and she offered to show me her flamenco dress.

The dress itself originates from the gypsies. The most traditional design is the large polka dot (traje de lunares) but nowadays you can see many different designs. Originally instead of sleeves many-layered ruffles decorated the shoulders and the bottom of the dress. It is tight fitting but flares out at the bottom half.

Over the years the design has changed. There were times when the dress had half-sleeves, later long sleeves where the ruffles adorned the wrists. The length also varies. What originally reached down to the ankle, became knee length. For a few years the dress became separated to top and bottom parts. The number and size of the ruffles are differing as well.

If you want a dress that is of the season check out the newest designs on the flamenco dress designer show that is held annually in January.

Eva’s dress has a lovely pale blue colour and instead of ruffles it has lace parts embedded in the material.

The skirt hides an underskirt which cleverly conceals a pocket. You can keep small items here such as your phone or wallet.

The dress however is not the only item that you have to purchase. It comes with accessories as well.

Let’s not forget the shoes which Eva has two pairs of, one for walking around and one for dancing flamenco.

If you ever get a chance to chat to a girl from Andalusia, make sure you ask them about their dress. They will be happy to show you their photos on their phones posing in their traje de flamenco.