What They’re Wearing in: Madrid, Spain This Summer
What They’re Wearing in: Madrid, Spain This Summer
By: Emma Greene
As the fashion capitol of the Spanish-speaking world and the city that birthed Loewe, Manolo Blahnik, Paco Rabanne, Balenciaga, and more, it comes as no surprise that Madrid is rife with taste. Madrileños are unafraid of color and maximalism while simultaneously clean cut and sophisticated. The dog days of Spanish summer have brought about a myriad of vivacious styles fit for a cosmopolitan lifestyle sans AC.
Loud Patterns & Colors
Perhaps most different from that of fellow fashion meccas is Madrid’s embracing of color. While autumn lies just around the corner, Madrileños are still donning the prismatic pieces often associated with warmer months. Alongside these hues, they combine a multitude of patterns and textures which neutral-loving, New York-grown style would never conceive.
Maximalist Accessories
In Madrid, no outfit is complete without a unique accessory, or two, or three. Jeans are rarely left without a belt and everyone seems to own a pair of wire framed sunglasses. An eye-catching pop of color on the shoe or handbag is also a Madrid style staple.
Rather than maximize with chunky chains, simple jewelry shimmers in packs here. Rarely does a ring, bracelet, or necklace stand alone.
Clean, Distinctive Sneakers
While Adidas Sambas may rule the internet, Madrid’s most stylish allow personal style to rule their footwear habits. From dad sneakers to sleek styles like those of Superga, any brand and make of sneaker can be seen roaming the streets or sitting outside a cafe.
Consistency, however, lies in the cleanliness of footwear. No matter the context, be it at school, the gym, or enjoying a cafe con leche, there is not a dirty sneaker in sight. Locals breathe eccentric refinery from head to toe. This begs the question: are locals buying more shoes or do Americans simply not know how to clean theirs?
Breathable Silhouettes
As an unusually steamy summer persists, locals are turning to relaxed dresses, flowing skirts, and wide-leg pants to beat the heat. These pieces allow for airflow without compromising finery.
Navy
In Madrid, navy is the new black. Madrileños have agreed that navy supersedes its more common sister. Be it in suiting, dresses, or paired with jeans, navy is Madrid’s dark neutral of choice.
Expressive elegance defines style in the Spanish capital city. Madrid’s ethos of unique yet polished dressing allows a place for individuals of any style and age to flourish when it comes to fashion. As summer yields to cooler weather, this urban tapestry of eclecticism is sure to inspire styles anew.
For more on the world’s fashion principals including Stockholm, Paris, and Florence, continue reading our “What They’re Wearing in” series. Follow Square Magazine on Instagram for updates and exclusive fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content.
All photos belong to their respective owners.