The dress is typically brightly colored, usually in black, red or and may be either plain or patterned, with the most famous being the polka dotted traje de lunares.

The outfit originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when women vendors dressed in modest calico gowns trimmed with ruffles came to the fairs along with livestock traders.

In the early 21st century there are a wide variety of designs of traje de flamenca for women and girls.

This folkloric outfit has inspired numerous Spanish and international fashion designers, among them Victorio & Lucchino, who have their own line of trajes de flamenca.

Others who have been influenced include Yves Saint Laurent, John Galliano, Valentino Garavani, and Tom Ford.