This is an interesting custom here that occurs during Corpus Christi. In this parade there is a mannequin who rides a dragon and is dressed differently every year. She is suppose to show the women of Granada what the "in" fashion will be for summer, however every woman I talked to dislikes her style. And I have to agree, the pink dress with a huge rose in the center does nothing for me.
Tarasca Parade
Furthermore in Spain, it seems like almost everyone owns traditional Spanish clothing. Especially during Corpus Christi, the women wear these extravagant flamenco dresses. These dresses are extremely colorful with ruffles at the bottom. When wearing this dress, the girls pull their hair back very tightly into a neat bun and add a giant flower on the top of their heads. The men wear a grey/brown suit with hat and usually are riding a horse though the streets. Even the little kids here own some of this traditional clothing! Little girls and boys run through the streets in their flamenco outfits and little suits, I think it is so incredibly cute.
The fashion involved with these customs and traditions are very different from anything seen in the United States. However, the daily clothing the people wear here is very similar to what we wear in America.
The younger crowd wears the latest "fashion trends" seen in popular magazines and the older generation tries to find flattering, but comfortable clothing.
My cousin here, Carlos, and his friends
While I think the clothing is very similar, I believe students do get ready for class here more than students in the United States do. In Ann Arbor, my usual outfit consist of LuluLemon yoga pants, a T-shirt with some type of sweater (in case I get cold), and UGG's, converse, or sandals depending on the weather. Here the students wear "real" clothes everyday for class. While this looks nice, it also requires more time in the morning (haha) so this custom I will probably not be practicing when I get back home.
Common school style in America
Common school style in Granada
When we go out at night it is, once again, very similar style wise to the fashion in the United States. People get a little more dressed up; dresses and heels are commonly seen. Furthermore, besides speaking a completely different language, the nightlife is very similar here and in the United States. The big difference is the discotecas do not open until 2 and close at 6am (this is way to late for me). However, everyone is extremely friendly. Normally, most people approach me speaking Spanish, only to realize I speak very little. They are always very kind and helpful in allowing me time to understand and respond in Spanish and many students here know at least a little English.
Carlos and his friends out in Granada
My friends and I out in America
When I do go out at night, I think it is really interesting how the social life of students here is so similar to the social life of students back in the United States. Everyone has their group of friends, laughing at jokes, talking to each other, dancing, the only difference is the language. It reminds me how similar we all are.
Special thank you to Carlos, my cousin, for letting me use his Instagram pictures for this blog!
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