Elegance, strength and grace are all key elements of fashion that seem to transcend both time and trends. The influence of Latin style on modern fashion exemplifies this perfectly. Spotted both on and off the runway, in real and “reel” life, Latin influence is deep, rich, colorful and even flavorful in the way it captures a certain spirit synonymous with, say, São Paulo or Mexico City.
At the heart of every look is a true understanding of Latin culture at its core. More than just a pop of bright color or a hint of texture, these looks embrace the heritage itself. Take a peek at some of the inspiring ways Latin culture has influenced how we dress today.
Images: Imaxtree
Top Latin Influences in Fashion Today
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Rich Embroidery
A glance through the racks at nearly any women’s boutique reveals dozens of dresses accented with striking embroidery. It’s a testament to the rich character of Old World Latin styles, particularly the intricately embroidered, floor-length dresses worn by indigenous Mexican women. Modern styles nod to the past with their impressive workmanship, often in the form of an exquisite floral or vine pattern on a shorter-length dress or an airy tunic.
Image: Altuzarra Spring 2016
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Rich Embroidery
Alberta Ferretti Spring 2014
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Rich Embroidery
Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2016
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Rich Embroidery
Tadashi Shoji Spring 2016
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Rich Embroidery
Gucci Spring 2016
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Rich Embroidery
Naeem Khan Spring 2016
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Bare Shoulders
Chances are, you’ve spotted bare shoulders for several seasons now — and likely have a few “cold shoulder” pieces in your closet. But the bare shoulder is something entirely different. It’s not about revealing a hint of skin via a stealthily cut dress or blouse. This look is bolder, perhaps even a touch risqué in its appearance. Bare shoulders genuinely expose every inch of shoulder, extending past the collarbones and spotlighting this highly unlikely, though no less erogenous, area of the upper body.
Image: Nanette Lepore Spring 2016
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Bare Shoulders
Tory Burch Spring 2016
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Bare Shoulders
Erdem Spring 2016
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Bare Shoulders
Proenza Schouler Spring 2016
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Bare Shoulders
Derek Lam Spring 2016
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Bare Shoulders
Alice + Olivia Spring 2016
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Dramatic Colors
There’s a certain energy associated with quintessential Latin style — either a vibrant, no-nonsense red or a swirl of rainbow colors, beautifully combined in wildly adventurous palettes. There’s no denying color’s presence in Latina fashion, from bold hues to hothouse floral prints that elevate the drama on even the most basic pieces.
Image: Francesca Liberatore Spring 2016
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Dramatic Colors
Roberto Cavalli Spring 2015
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Dramatic Colors
Diane von Furstenberg Spring 2015
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Dramatic Colors
Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2016
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Dramatic Colors
Anna Sui Spring 2016
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Dramatic Colors
Alice + Olivia Spring 2016
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Dramatic Colors
Lela Rose Spring 2016
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Bold Ruffles
Excessive texture adds personality and character to even simple tops and dresses. Gracing runways from Gucci to Lanvin, this romantic look is practically an accessory all its own. Traditional Latin dresses, especially those worn by flamenco dancers, were often layered with extravagant ruffles along the sleeves and in the skirt’s layers. Modern interpretations often mirror these authentic styles, featuring tiered skirts or shoulders with exaggerated ruffles.
Image: Jason Wu Spring 2016
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Bold Ruffles
Laura Biagiotti Spring 2016
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Bold Ruffles
Proenza Schouler Spring 2016
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Bold Ruffles
Tome Spring 2016
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Bold Ruffles
Mary Katrantzou Spring 2016
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Bold Ruffles
Kate Spade New York Spring 2016
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Peasant Sleeves
With their wide nature and loose fit, peasant sleeves have captivated the fashion world for years. In recent years, the trend’s bohemian spirit has taken shape, making it the perfect companion for structured bottoms. They take their inspiration from the traditional Puebla dresses, which bore short, wide sleeves and were often embroidered with colorful stitchery.
Image: Derek Lam Spring 2016
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Peasant Sleeves
Diane von Furstenberg Spring 2016
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Peasant Sleeves
Chloe Spring 2015
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Peasant Sleeves
Giambattista Valli Spring 2016
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Peasant Sleeves
Rachel Zoe Spring 2016
