Hi all,
It’s another beautiful day in Spain. The temperature is 82 degrees, sunny, with low humidity, and a breeze. I don’t mean to brag, but it’s perfect. I’ve been in Spain for roughly a month and a half, and I’m already beginning to lament my return to the real world. I still love New York, but I gotta say, life is good here.
At the beginning of my trip, you asked to see what I was buying and wearing, which we covered in 'What I bought in Spain So Far.' You also requested reports on what people are wearing in Spain. You asked, I deliver, albeit a little late, but here it is: Who Looks Good, The Spanish Edition.
Summer feels like it’s almost in full swing here, though officially that happens around the 21st. I love to travel to Europe in June. You beat the hordes of tourists, and the weather is perfect. Also, airfares are cheaper. If your schedule allows, I highly recommend it. What does that have to do with what people are wearing? Well, now there are more people around in a holiday frame of mind, particularly at Cala Clemence, a very chic little beach club in Jávea.
The woman in the top photo and below was totally owning Cala Clemence the other afternoon. As you can see, she had it going on, from her hat down to her slides. She was rocking white linen, which is always a good choice, with the gold hardware of her chic bikini poking up past her pants and peeking out from her loosely tied shirt. She was also beautiful with fantastic hair. So kudos to her!
The bikini is more than I can adequately handle, but white linen pants and a shirt as a beach cover-up are as chic as they are practical. The pants should be unconstructed, unlined, and better to sit lower on the hips for a more relaxed air. The shirt is best slightly oversized (but not too much) with a dropped shoulder. Both can do double duty for other summer looks. And don’t worry about the sheerness of unlined linen pants; just wear nude undies and you’re good. The gold hardware takes this look to the next level. Add a sculptural pendant for the same effect.
Above are more chic people just killing a Thursday afternoon. I’ve been seeing and feeling for the beige and white combination as worn by the woman in the top left photo. Again, there are the relaxed white linen pants. Also note her excellent jewelry game, just the right amount for the outfit. Matching sets with either pants or shorts are as big in Spain as they are in the States. And how chic is this young duo? The girl on the left is chic beyond her years. She has nailed this look!!! Her floppy hat, bandeau top, and killer macramé skirt with fringe just reach but don’t cross the line to too extra for the setting. She keeps it real with Birkenstocks and simple jewelry. Brava! Her friend is pretty damn cute as well with her pointelle dress over her bikini.
I had to include this stylish young mother with one on the way. She looked beautiful in her body-conscious knit dress with an espadrille wedge, which added weight to the look. The daughter was also a cutie in her crisp white cotton dress.
On the streets of Dénia, one recent evening, I noticed the length of choice for women of style was around six inches above the ankle. Spanish women do love their espadrilles, which makes sense since cars are parked a distance away and people stroll to restaurants where tables spill out onto the streets. An espadrille wedge is the perfect shoe for navigating la vida en las calles or life in the streets ;). It’s not even hot yet, but already I’ve noticed that women do use fans to keep cool. Not a bad accessory for the heat of summer, not to mention a fun prop.
I’ve been frequenting this plant-based cafe in Dénia. Though the food is great in Spain, it’s hard to get your veggies in. On a recent visit, this woman caught my eye. The dress had a bubble hem, which made the simple, universally flattering shape more interesting.
Style starts young here, as demonstrated by these tween girls. Love the choices made by the girl in the cutoffs. She paired them with sambas and a one-shoulder sweater, complemented by her gorgeous hair. The above gang of girls, ready for a night out, favored either long-long or short-short.
Here are typical day looks in Spain. From left Valencia, Jávea, and Madrid. Generally, there is a sense of casual ease, but always pulled together.
Last Friday evening, we were lucky to have stumbled upon the celebration for the announcement of the new Falleras Mayores de Dénia. Men, women, and children are dressed in spectacular, custom-made costumes accessorized down to the shoes, jewelry, and hair ornaments. It’s couture level and quite a sight to see. Note the intensity of the boy with the scarf, expertly arranged on his head, and the little girl. It’s no wonder the kids have style. The bottom photo of costumed ladies enjoying beers before the ceremony was taken through the window of the restaurant where we were eating.
Later in the week, I discovered the shop (far left) that makes the costumes for the Falleras and Falleros, custom-making everything, even the petticoats under the dresses. This celebration happens in many towns across Spain. It’s a big deal and an honor to be elected a Falleras or Fallores Mayores, a year-long post that is a kind of ambassadorship for the town. Duties also figure heavily into the many festivals that take place during the year. Since I’ve been here, I’ve lost count of the many festivals and holidays that have taken place. The Spanish people are proud of their culture and keep it alive with celebrations year-round. They enjoy life!
In case you missed it, here are links to the recent caftan stories published. And don’t miss my complete caftan shop here.
Thank you all for reading. What are your summer plans, and what are the essential summer pieces you can’t travel without? I would love to know!
xxx Jolain
Amazing. Every image. The simple chic, razor sharp style makes you stop and LOOK. The festival costumes are just 🤯. The “Essentianality” effect is thrilling, Lovey! The first image is burning in my brain. I’d follow her anywhere! Thanks for taking us on such a fascinating stroll !!! ❤️😘🥰 xT
Thanks for the post. I've made a note of 6 inches above the ankle. Just a small amount either way can change a look completely. I tried on a skirt I hadn't worn for a while which is vaguely knee length. There was enough on the hem to to lengthen it by a couple of inches and it looked so much better. The bubble hem is interesting. That style was everywhere a couple of decades back. It looks good on a full length skirt.