How to Dress Like a Spanish Mom
A small Spanish town on the northern coast
This post is completely inspired by
writer of Mom Friend & writer of Fashion Soup. They have observed the New York mom in each of their neighborhoods providing us with vital information we didn’t know we needed but nonetheless details we crave—how the moms are dressed along with thoughtful insights and key observations into their everyday lives.While they boast thousands of subscribers and I hover around 150 (154 on a good day), I'm more than ready to take on the challenge of bringing this trend across the seas to Europe. I have a feeling my small (and much appreciated!) corner of the internet would enjoy a guide on How to Dress Like a Spanish Mom.
studies the Brooklyn mom’s style which feels very similar to mine—baseball cap, clogs, and a cozy knit. I really feel like I know this mom.
Across town
reports on the Manhattan mom—the mom I aspire to be, though realistically, probably never will be. I’m slightly intimidated (in the best way) by this mom yet admire her. The Moms of Manhattan(TM) are often out from morning to night, walking miles down Madison Avenue, riding the subway to Soho, going to work, appointments, playdates, birthday parties, and dinners. All without a change of clothes in the car. -
The Spanish Mom
My husband, 5 month old baby, and I will be spending a month in Northern Spain. Specifically a small Spanish town on the coast—a very popular place for Spaniards to vacation! This has given me plenty of time to observe and report on the Northern Spanish mom. So here’s my take!
The Spanish mom is confident and self-assured. The children can wait; her needs come first. I say this with respect, as I am a better mother when my own needs—such as mental health, sleep, and self-care—are taken care of. They are not rushed, but move with intentional purpose on their own time.
These women are chic and sophisticated with each layer from head to toe thoughtfully put together. It doesn’t matter if she is grocery shopping, at the park with her kids, or grabbing a glass of wine, she is dressed with impeccable detail and class. Side note: the park is conveniently located where you can sip your vino and watch your children run around the playground. This is very common and not judged or frowned upon. We frequently spotted newborns asleep in their prams, while their parents casually enjoyed drinks and pinchos (snacks).
How to Dress
Here’s what they are NOT wearing—baseball caps, graphic tees, anything with fringe, jean shorts, Apple watch, baggy over sized clothing, sweat pants/leggings, or distressed items with holes in them.
The Spanish mom gravitates towards the following (or at least I think she does) when getting dressed—clean lines, tailored/structured pieces, straight leg jeans, trousers, trench coat or blazer, sweater over the shoulders, accessories such as a small scarf or elegant yet cool jewelry, stockings if she has heels on, and extra points for a monochromatic look or matching sets.
(inspirational photos taken from Pinterest of how they dress - as I did not capture the Spanish Mom IRL)
I’m especially drawn to the blazer and vest combo for its subtle masculinity, as well as the monochromatic look because of the strong visual statement it makes. And if you’re wondering, yes they are wearing Adidas Sambas and New Balance sneakers (this shocked me as well)—paired with outfits as seen above. However, you can’t go wrong with a classic leather loafer, as they were seen everywhere. Overall, I give these parents a chefs kiss, mazel tov, and dos besos for dressing with impeccable taste while completing everyday tasks and routines.
Her Children
Finally, Spanish moms take their style to the next level, extending it effortlessly to their babies, children, and even their strollers. Socks or stockings are a must! My first day in the North and I was reprimanded by an abuela (grandma) because my 5 month old was barefoot. Oops!
I saw children dressed in these polished and traditional outfits everywhere, from the park to the restaurants.
You may see many of the children wearing the brand Cóndor. A popular children's clothing company from Barcelona - known for its 100% cotton clothing.
How they change diapers or clothing in these outfits if there’s been an accident is unbeknownst to me. My sweet baby had an easy zipper outfit on every day. Okay truth, he was wearing his pajamas. Hey, convenience!
Me
I’ll never quite hit the mark like the Spanish mom does, but their style deserves to be framed. I’m a little bit more casually undone with baggy jeans and a beanie paired with a cashmere sweater. I’ve also been rocking the no-makeup look long before it became trendy—happy it’s on brand now. When I’m home and finally settled post this Spanish “vacation”, I’ll give you a full report on How to Dress Like a Portland Mom. They are a different breed of mothers—nonetheless my favorite. I may be biased though because I’m a Portland mom :).
Besos,
Kate
Hi! Spanish Mom here, I loved your take on it, I am more like you and opt for a relaxed look but you nailed this part: "Here’s what they are NOT wearing—baseball caps, graphic tees, anything with fringe, jean shorts, Apple watch, baggy over sized clothing, sweat pants/leggings, or distressed items with holes in them." Athleisure is a no-no for me and a park inside a plaza by a terrace is always a win haha.
My little kid, however, dresses more casually. It's usually the more conservative parents who dress their kids like little dolls; I find it very impractical and uncomfortable for the kids.
Kate! This was everything I hoped it would be and more! I want to be a Spanish mom :) I loved your inspiration photos - and your beanie! Can’t wait for the next dispatch from Portland!