No Offense to the French, But Spanish Women Have the Best Summer Style—Period

Every summer without fail, I find myself back in Madrid, soaking up the sun, the food, and, of course, the style. Spanish women have this effortless way of dressing that’s equal parts polished and relaxed, perfectly suited to the heat but never sacrificing sophistication or personality.
After coming back from a long trip in Madrid, I'm here to report my findings: Madrid women do it better. What sets Madrid apart for me is a confident, sartorial ease: the quiet mix of prints, the artful tailoring, the carefully curated accents that make every look feel intentional but never overdone, even when you're walking around in 90-degree heat down the streets of Salamanca.
If you’re ready to refresh your summer wardrobe with a fresh perspective, take a cue from the city’s coolest women. Below, shop the best summer trends Spanish women are all over this season.
Fisherman-Core Jewelry
Who says jewelry can’t have a sense of humor? Fish-shaped pieces are the quirky little detail your summer looks didn’t know they needed—subtle enough to wear every day but fun enough to catch a few double takes by the pool or on a city stroll.
Nightgown-Style Dresses
Silky, slinky, and effortlessly chic—nightgown-style dresses are summer’s answer to how to look amazing without trying too hard. Perfect for everything from a casual brunch to a sunset dinner, they’re that effortless luxe vibe Madrid women do so well.
Polka-Dot Everything
Polka dots are back, and they’re not playing it safe. Whether it’s a flirty dress or a breezy blouse, these timeless spots bring a playful energy to your outfit—because summer is all about fun, movement, and maybe just a little bit of retro charm.
Timeless Raffia Bags
Raffia bags are the ultimate summer accessory—textured, natural, and perfectly imperfect. They bring tactile warmth and artisanal charm to any outfit, balancing polished tailoring or breezy dresses with a grounded, earthy element that’s quintessentially Mediterranean. Plus, the style has been practically perfected by one of Spain's own luxury houses—Loewe—whose timeless bucket bag is on the crook of every stylish woman in the city.
Tailored Separates
The season’s tailored separates strike a balance between relaxed comfort and sharp sophistication. Lightweight fabrics and precise cuts allow for effortless mixing and matching—making these pieces the foundation of a versatile wardrobe that transitions seamlessly from day to night in Madrid’s summer heat. More than likely, you'll find women strolling down the street in linen shorts and oversize poplin button-downs.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
Live From Madrid: 31 Zara and Mango Finds That I Guarantee Will Soon Sell Out Stateside
Straight from the motherland.
-
I’m a Senior Shopping Editor—Here’s Everything I Highly Recommend Buying From the Mango Sale
Get 30% off just about everything
-
Nothing Humbles Your Closet More Than the Zara New Arrivals Section—25 Pieces to Instantly Elevate Your Fall Outfits
Did I mention they're modeled by Alexa Chung?
-
33 Gorgeous Fall Coats I'm Considering From Revolve, Mango, and Banana Republic
Suede jackets, funnel-neck coats, and classic trenches ahead.
-
I Love the Sweaters at J.Crew, COS, and Zara RN—40 Worth Adding to Your Cart
These will elevate your fall outfits.
-
Hello, 5-Star Wardrobe: Meet 30 Stylish New Zara Items
From stunning jackets to cool knits.
-
I Officially Have a Zordy Closet—31 Zara andReplica Store Standouts That I'm Living In Straight Through Fall
Plus, chic fall 2025 outfit ideas that I plan on re-creating ASAP.
-
Cool-Girl Fall Era Loading—31 Picks From Zara, J.Crew, and Gap That Fit the Bill
I'm a senior shopping editor, and these have my stamp of approval.