Barcelona is a fashionable city with an impressive reputation for style. It has been ranked as number five among the fashion capitals of the world (behind New York, Milan, Paris and London). It is home to over 1,700 clothing and textile businesses, which employ over 100,000 people.
If you are looking for something to wear for a night out, you will find no shortage of choice. You can head to the Passeig de Grȃcia for some high-class fashion, or find some great high street looks in the Portal de L’angel district. Then, you can fit right in with the locals while enjoying a beer and watching a sports game with friends.
Day to Evening Wear
In the spring and autumn months, Barcelona can be beautifully mild with warm sunshine, but the temperature can drop quite quickly in the evenings. You might not want to take a coat with you, but it is a good idea to take a wrap, shawl or a large scarf to keep you warm and cover your bare shoulders. Large scarves are equally fashionable for men, too, and well in keeping with the European chic sense of style. Even if you are wearing plain colours, a wrap or shawl is also a great way of injecting some fun into your outfit with a bold print, which can turn your day clothes into an original fashion statement. La Rambla de Catalunya is a great place to do a little casual shopping for a vibrant and colourful scarf — the markets and independent stores have a wide range of choice. It is a place to find unique styles that will give your outfit a sense of individuality.
Don’t Look Like a Tourist
Tourists can sometimes be vulnerable in other countries and Spain is sadly no exception. Street robbers are on the hunt for people that look like they are carrying cash, passports and other valuables. When you go out for the evening in Barcelona, don’t take a bag containing these kind of items – leave them in the hotel safe, or somewhere secure. If you are wearing clothing that is too casual, like flip-flops and beachwear, you are more likely to be targeted as a tourist. Locals are extremely unlikely to be wearing an “I Heart Barcelona” t-shirt, so keep your holiday wardrobe fairly muted.
A Night at the Beer Hall
If you are coming to the beer hall for a night out, then a smart-casual dress code is appropriate. It’s certainly not a place for lager louts. You will notice that the majority of men are in smart pants, shorts or chinos, with a collar shirt and jacket. Women’s dress is generally quite conservative. Spanish and Catalan women don’t tend to wear revealing or suggestive clothing; it’s all about looking classy and stylish. At the beer hall there’s no need to dress up for the night club (unless you are planning to head there afterwards). It is a casual venue where you go to drink some of the finest craft beers and sample the extensive menu of chicken wings. Just try not to get the mango habanero sauce on your clothes!
Barcelona is a fun, vibrant city full of fashion and culture. When you head out for the evening, make sure that you are dressed appropriately and don’t look too much like a tourist.