Founded in 1847, the Seville April Fair (Feria de Abril) has evolved from a local tradition into one of Spain’s most prestigious social events with a massive global footprint. For decades, the fair has been an irresistible magnet for the international elite, drawing everyone from Hollywood icons to royals and aristocrats.
On the legendary grounds of the Real, tradition meets high fashion as royals trade crowns for classic flamenco attire. From the timeless elegance of Grace Kelly (during her time as Princess of Monaco) and the Duchess of Alba to the vibrant modern looks of Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and her daughters, we’re looking back at the iconic styles that have defined this Spanish spectacle.
© Gtresonline1. Princesses Amalia, Alexia, and Ariane of the Netherlands
For their visit to the 2019 April Fair, the daughters of the Kings of the Netherlands wore creations by designer Fabiola García-Liñán, founder of the couture brand Fabiola 1987.
Amalia chose a vibrant yellow dress with pronounced ruffles, contrasted with a burgundy shawl. Alexia opted for turquoise green and blue tones; meanwhile, Ariane was the only one in the family to wear a polka-dot print and ruffles with trim. All completed their looks with fans in various shades.
© Gtresonline2. Queen Máxima of the Netherlands
The Queen Maxima also trusted designer Fabiola García-Liñán for her flamenco dress. Specifically, she chose a bright blue dress featuring profuse ruffles and lace. In contrast, she covered her shoulders with a floral shawl in a reddish and pink tones that matched the large flowers adorning her hair.
© Gtresonline3. Cayetana de Alba
Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart (1926-2014), the Duchess of Alba, was one of the most unforgettable aristocrats of the Fair. Her looks are iconic and epitomize Seville tradition. In this image, she is seen in a green dress with white polka dots and a red shawl. Ever innovative, she carried a rectangular clutch.
© Gtresonline4. Cayetana de Alba (2008)
In 2008, the Duchess was seen with her close friend, Carmen Tello. On this occasion, the aristocrat wore a floral print dress paired with a pale pink shawl that matched the flowers in her characteristic curly hair.
© Gtresonline5. Eugenia Martínez de Irujo
The Duchess of Montoro, daughter of Cayetana de Alba, posed with her husband, Narcís Rebollo, at the 2022 Fair. She innovated with her flamenco attire by opting for a multicolored polka-dot print and a flattering orange shawl.
© Gtresonline6. Eugenia Martínez de Irujo and Cayetana Rivera
In 2019, Eugenia wore a violet shawl that contrasted with the red flower in her hair. Beside her, her daughter Cayetana Rivera opted for the classic combination of red polka dots on a white background.
© Gtresonline7. Cayetana Rivera (2022)
The Duchess of Montoro's daughter sought an innovative color contrast in 2022, wearing an olive green flamenco dress with a vibrant orange shawl and pink flowers on her head.
© Gtresonline8. Cayetana Rivera (2023)
In 2023, Cayetana Rivera caused a sensation with a polka-dot and floral print look. Specifically, she chose a dress from Mi Abril, the brand owned by Lourdes Montes (Her father's wife, Francisco Rivera).
© vicmabor9. Victoria de Marichalar
The Infanta Elena's daughter chose a blue dress with matching velvet trim and a floral shawl for the 2022 Fair. She poses alongside influencer Tomás Páramo.
© vicmabor10. Victoria de Marichalar (Second Look 2022)
In 2022, Infanta Elena's daughter also wore this red dress with polka dots in the same color range, but with greater intensity. Her shawl and the flower in her hair were also coordinated. Beside her, we can see María G. de Jaime and Mima Montoro. 'With my girls ❤️,' Victoria Federica specified alongside this photograph that she shared on her social profile.
© Getty Images11. Queen Sofía
In 1968, shortly after the birth of Prince Felipe, the current King of Spain, Queen Sofía was photographed at the Fair. She chose a flamenco dress with the traditional red polka-dot on white background print, designed by Lina Sevilla.
© Getty Images12. Grace of Monaco
The iconic Grace Kelly also visited the Fair as the wife of Rainier of Monaco. She wore a dress in a luminous tone enhanced with crochet stitching, also designed by Lina Sevilla.
