A tradition that is very much our own: what is the origin of the flamenco dress?
With the arrival of April, the streets of Seville are filled with ruffles and polka dots. Nerves are awakened in the hearts of the Sevillanas, who wait all year long to unpack esparto grass, flowers, combs… and prepare for the arrival of the most special week of the year.
The Sevillian idiosyncrasy is embodied in the flamenco dress: elegant and traditional, but capable of transforming and reinventing itself over time and adapting to different times and tastes. The flamenco dress or, as it is popularly known, ‘gypsy costume’, is the only regional costume that evolves over time.
The origin of the flamenco dress
But what is the origin of the flamenco dress? This traditional costume is known worldwide as a reference of Spanish culture. Its origins go back to the Andalusian countryside, as it is the garment worn by female workers as it is loose and fresh, making it easier to carry out their tasks.
Ruffles and embroidery dressed this work dressing gown, which began to attract the attention of the ladies of high society, who began to opt for dresses that incorporated these elements. In 1847, when the Feria de Abril de Ganado was held, many women wore these dresses. This is the origin of flamenco dresses, which evolved with the Feria, which ceased to be a livestock fair and became a week of leisure. Something similar happened with the gypsy costume, which became, in 1929, during the Ibero-American Exhibition, the official costume of the Feria de Abril.
Why is polka dot print so popular?
The first polka dots appeared in the 18th century as a printing error and, at first, they were not very successful. This unpopularity meant that the fabrics had to be sold at a low price, so they were perfect for field workers to make their ruffled outfits. Since they were the ones who attended livestock fairs and used these fabrics for their clothing, the polka dot pattern on flamenco dresses became popular. In fact, it is the most recognizable and repeated since the flamenco dress was the official clothing of the April Fair and even today it continues to be re-interpreted every year.
