A Tribute to Madrid Fashion
The City Council of Madrid has launched El Madrid de la moda, a cultural map that celebrates the rich textile and design heritage of the Spanish capital. This innovative guide, created by the renowned designer Lorenzo Caprile, along with fashion expert Lydia García and illustrator Jorge Arévalo, invites citizens and tourists to explore the iconic places that have shaped the pulse of fashion in Madrid.
The route begins in the heart of Madrid, next to the iconic Puerta del Sol. In this area is the Almacén de Pontejos, a nerve centre for those seeking fabrics and materials for sewing for decades. This place is just one of the many stops that make up this map, which highlights both big names and small gems from the past.
As we move through the streets, we find other significant landmarks. For example, at number 11 on Calle del Arenal was the Alberto Ranz tailoring shop, active for over a century and famous for its connection to the Royal House. Founded in 1841, this tailor shop was a pioneer in offering garments for both men and women.
Not far away is Mellerio, a jewellery store with over 400 years of history that was a favourite among Spanish royals. Its legacy includes iconic pieces such as the Rocaille tiara designed for Isabel II. These types of stories are what make the map an invaluable tool for understanding not only fashion but also the social and cultural context surrounding each establishment.
Along the route, visitors will also discover the first department stores opened in 1924 by Alfonso XIII: the Madrid-Paris Stores. Although their existence was brief, their impact endures to this day. On Gran Vía are other famous names like Loewe and EISA, where figures like Ava Gardner used to shop.
The map does not forget the women who set trends in the world of design. Flora Villarreal is remembered for having designed the wedding dress of the Duchess of Alba in 1947 and for being a pioneer in adapting European designs to Spanish tastes. Likewise, Elio Berhanyer left his mark with his modern creations during the 1960s and 1970s.
Those interested can access the map for free through the official tourist portal or pick up printed copies at various libraries and cultural centres throughout the city. This initiative not only seeks to preserve the historical memory related to Madrid fashion but also to foster a greater appreciation for its evolution over time.
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