The magic that defines Barcelona is felt instantly upon stepping off the bus in the center of Plaça de Catalunya. This is the epicenter of Barcelona tourism, evident in the familiar stores—Zara, Levi’s, Tous—and Emporio Armani billboards that blanket an entire block of buildings. Despite this being a notoriously touristy area of the city, the vibrant energy for which Barcelona is known is strong and intoxicating.
There is a different side to the city, one which shows the unique, history-rich style of this Mediterranean metropolis. Barcelona consistently distinguishes its culture as separate from other Spanish cities. The style of Barcelona’s people is equally distinct—noticeable in its own styles of the architecture as well as the fashion.
The Godfather of Funky
Barcelona’s design legacy includes influence from many progressive, talented residents including artist Santiago Rusiñol and architect Antoni Gaudí, without whom none of this would be possible. Next to the Picasso museum, vivid graffiti decorates metal storefront grates. This is raw; this is unique; this is Barcelona.
Examining the style of Gaudí affords greater understanding regarding the funky style of Barcelona. His use of bright colors, piecing together ceramic bits to create intricate mosaics mesmerize admirers. Gaudí’s style incorporates hidden messages—some of which only he knew the true meaning—making his work that much more enthralling. By using skylights, he illuminated certain spaces and emphasized particular color patterns throughout his spaces during different times of the day. His designs were unique—seemingly whimsical, though completely deliberate—the same type of style that has defined Barcelona.
Ladies Love Cool Threads
Barcelona lives up to its reputation as a casual, beach city. However to say that Barcelona women do not care about fashion is inaccurate; they show their style savvy through clothing that exhibits their individuality in a more casual and subtle way. The women of this city do not follow exact trends and would never choose a look straight off of a store mannequin despite the wide offering of commercial brands. Instead they pick and choose, incorporating pieces that reflect their personal style, much like the methods Gaudí used when choosing pieces for his mosaics.
Barcelona is a city in which you spend afternoons walking along cobble stone streets, through the Gothic quarter, among buildings that are hundreds, almost one thousand years old. To completely grasp Barcelona style requires appreciation of the entire city, both the beach and the streets, and the culture of its people. They enjoy life, living each day as a continuation from the last, forming one enormous party. To recognize the elements that define the fashion style of this city, visitors need to experience and enjoy the Barcelona lifestyle—in all of its glorious whimsy and vibrant color, creating their own mosaic style along the way.
Article written by Dorothy Crouch for Moxy Magazine, October 2011. Photos courtesy of Dorothy Crouch.
