Several Spanish clothing designers are internationally acclaimed for their contribution to Spanish fashion, which has made a global presence through prestigious fashion labels. Read our guide for more facts and information…
Spanish fashion is a wondrous mix of beauty, style, cuts and silhouettes presented in a myriad of collars and patterns. It is an integral part of the culture of Spain, where fashion has become a million-dollar business.
Fashion in Spain
Spanish fashion dates back to the Iberian culture as evident from the sculptures, which inspired clothing design of the later centuries. However, the country’s fashion witnessed growth and global recognition only after the work of influential designers, such as Cristobal Balenciaga and Mariano Fortuny. The success of Spanish fashion is largely attributed to the talents of such multifaceted fashion designers, whose work took the fashion industry to the global arena during the first decade of the 20th century. Zara, Berksha, Massimo Dutti, Pull & Bear and Stradivarius are examples of Spanish fashion brands that have made a mark in the global market. Inditex group, the company behind these brands, has established a fashion empire consisting of over a thousand shops in more than 30 countries.
Famous Spanish Fashion Designers of Yesteryears
Mariano Fortuny, a multifaceted clothing designer, is referred to as the Renaissance man, owing to the array of talents he possessed in addition to designing. He was well-versed in stage design, fabric printing and photography. The pleated Delphos gown designed by Fortuny in the early 20th century is considered modern even today.
Cristobal Balanciaga, a prominent designer of his days, took fashion designing to new heights. He founded the Balenciaga fashion house. Other designers of his generation include Pedro Rodriguez, Carmen Mir, Asuncion Bastida, Natalio, Marbel and Lino. Fernando Sanchez was known for his lingerie designs and his innovative dress construction techniques for slips and caftans.
Contemporary Spanish Clothing Designers
Amaya Arzuaga is known for her collections that are regularly showcased in international fashion festivals including Fashion Cotterie in New York and the London Fashion Week in London. She has over 200 boutiques in Spain.
Adolfo Dominguez is the first Spanish designer to establish a brand-name shop in Madrid. His brand has a chain of outlets across the country and abroad.
Agatha Ruiz de la Prada y Sentmenat entered the world of fashion by opening a women’s collection in Madrid in the 1980s. Her collaboration with El Corte Ingles marked the success of her commercial venture. She also holds international recognition for her fashion shows.
CustoDalmau, along with his brother David, established a firm called Custo Barcelona, a famous fashion name in the country.
Elena Benarroch, a famous Spanish designer, set up a furrier in Madrid in the late 1970s. She has been conferred with several awards in Spain.
