The fashion and beauty sectors abound with fascinating individuals hailing from every corner of the globe, each possessing impeccable style—individuals whose insights you can count on for top-notch travel advice. Therefore, we’ve tasked them with sharing their preferred eateries, boutiques, and relaxation venues within their respective cities.
this series
Your personal guide for fashion and beauty when traveling.
Even though it isn’t officially considered one of the four main global fashion hubs,
Barcelona
keeps establishing itself as a key center for nurturing trends and supporting up-and-coming innovative designers. Spain is naturally the homeland of rapid-fashion behemoths.
Zara
and
Mango
, who’ve helped put the European country on the fashion map. But these massive companies aren’t the only ones introducing new trends to the rest of the world.
Up-and-coming labels like
Paloma Wool
,
Gimaguas
and
Eikō Ai
are bringing additional illumination to the style that Barcelona provides, and their appeal continues to rise. Paloma Wool has recently opened its
first permanent store
In New York City during April, the project incorporated contributions from other Barcelona-based creatives specializing in lighting and interior design.
Throughout Barcelona’s fashion scene, a consistent theme of community appears in every initiative.
Raphaella Santana
An independent designer located in the Catalonian metropolis emphasizes collaborating with and uplifting local talents as well. During photo sessions, she chooses famous spots around Barcelona and incorporates accessories from Spanish labels. After relocating to this region from Brazil eight years earlier, Santana recounts how she instantly felt it was where she belonged during her initial trip.
Each time I stroll around here every day, I continue to feel the exact same way as when I initially got here. I totally freakin’ adore this city.
Santana’s combined studio-showroom area has been transformed
viral
(
mostly on TikTok
) for her eponymous label’s flowing, effortlessly draped, monochrome vacation- and occasion-ready dresses. Customers have even
dubbed
the brand’s signature
Ophelia
stylize the latest “it” dress for this season’s summer trend.
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original article
to see embedded media.
The exclusively
made-to-order designs
Are fueled by Santana’s profound affection for Barcelona. She explains, “As I stroll through the streets, I make an effort to observe objects and comprehend their construction. This city ignites inspiration within you in subtle yet powerful ways,” she remarks. “The ability to admire the aesthetics and artistic essence of this place has a significant impact on me. That’s why some of my most innovative periods have occurred during my time here.”
Santana below reveals the places that instill in her a special Catalan sentiment strong enough to make her choose this city as her home. She also mentions the top tourist sites that continue to thrill her with visits and highlights some exceptional waterfront eateries known for their delicious tapas.
What is one dish that everybody visiting Barcelona should sample?
I really enjoy some delicious homemade ham croquettes. Admittedly, it’s the quintessential dish for tourists, but that doesn’t stop me from indulging. Typically, I stick with the classic tapas everyone raves about: spicy potato wedges, Padrón peppers, ham croquettes, and bread rubbed with tomato.
What are your go-to spots for breakfast in Barcelona?
I live quite near
Funky Bakers
It’s exceptionally well-regarded and widely favored. Since we’re not in Paris, finding a truly delicious croissant can be challenging at times, but they excel with their excellent butter croissant. Primarily known as a bakery, they also serve breakfast items, and their pancakes are particularly delightful.
What’s your go-to spot for lunch?
Honest Greens
The most genuine choice for me would be the most readily available spot for nutritious meals. What began with just one or two locations has expanded significantly, becoming widespread across cities nowadays. It offers a great balance of healthiness, affordability, and accessibility, making it easy to find a wholesome meal throughout town. This is typically where I grab my midday meal during workdays.
Best place for coffee?
I enjoy drinking coffee. It’s one of my favorites.
El Magnífico
Around the corner from my studio, they make excellent coffee. I think they even roast their own beans, which makes it incredibly tasty. Since I’m expecting now, I typically get a coffee with milk along with a hot chocolate.
What’s your go-to place for dinner in Barcelona?
There are several nice restaurants around, but there’s one particular place called
Betlem
That’s located in a lovely plaza. They serve handmade ham croquettes. The outdoor seating area is charming, perfect for watching passersby. Their traditional Spanish tapas are exceptionally tasty.
Where would you choose to lodge if you planned a staycation for yourself?
The Nobu Hotel
I recently discovered this restaurant through TikTok, so I decided to give it a shot. While it’s quite simple, I found it enjoyable as well.
Soho House
When I was part of that group.
Which tourist spot do you believe is particularly worthwhile visiting when in Barcelona?
The place where I always return to is the
Ciutadella Park
I frequently visit that place. The architecture fascinates me, particularly the Gaudí Fountain they feature. My friends and I regularly plan picnics there as well. Its lush and serene atmosphere offers a relaxing experience. You can even paddle in a tiny stream running through it. It’s quite versatile offering various activities. Additionally, close by lies another attraction.
Arc de Triomf
, which is another tourist spot where you might lose yourself for a while and also enjoy some natural surroundings.
Where do you like to go shopping? In your opinion, what are some of the most distinctive stores or boutiques around?
I typically create my own clothing; that’s simply how things stand. However, when I choose to buy something new, I tend to look for vintage items. A friend of mine runs a store known as
Moirai Market
I typically visit that place for footwear and handbags. It’s really awesome. Additionally, there’s a shop named
Roua & Friends
They offer one-of-a-kind items from indie creators that you likely won’t find elsewhere. Additionally, I genuinely enjoy this place.
Humana
, which is an uncurated thrift store where you have to sift through items on your own.
I also love
Miista shoes
— Their items are manufactured in Spain, which is highly significant for me. They offer truly exceptionally neat products.
I really enjoy shopping for presents and items for my home.
Bon Vent
They offer candles, plates, and various home decor items. Additionally, they sell creams and soaps. Interestingly, some of the hanging plants in my shop draw inspiration from their store’s design.
What is your preferred day excursion to make from Barcelona?
During summertime, whenever I feel like venturing out, I often hop on a train headed either towards the Costa Brava or further down south. Beyond the urban limits, numerous stunning beaches await discovery. The northern stretch of the Costa Brava boasts somewhat petite yet exceptionally charming and picturesque shores.
Is there anything further you would like to include?
Barcelona is truly a stunning city. It holds a very special place in my heart—after all, even more than my husband, daughter, and upcoming child. There seems to be some debate about how much others enjoy this place. However, I believe that if you approach it with an open spirit, you’ll find a city rich with offerings. Simply strolling through its streets makes me feel as though I’m somewhere quite extraordinary.
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