For years, many people in Spain have felt drawn to foreign cultures, often dismissing their own in favor of what seemed more sophisticated abroad. This sentiment, once widespread, is now giving way to a growing recognition of the richness within Spanish culture, as a new generation moves beyond stereotypes and embraces their heritage with pride.
A powerful example of this shift is Rosalía, who consistently sings in Spanish and, despite her global success, remains true to her roots. Her collaboration with Ralphie Choo highlights a desire to celebrate contemporary Spanish culture on the world stage.
A similar transformation is happening in the fashion industry. Young designers, once convinced that success required leaving Spain, are now choosing to stay and create locally. They’re redefining what Spanish fashion means, demonstrating that it encompasses much more than brands like Zara or Mango. Here are a few small, independent labels that are making waves in Madrid and Barcelona:
EVADE HOUSE
Founded in 2021 by Evangelina Julia, EVADE HOUSE is a Madrid-based brand that fuses craftsmanship with rebellious energy. Their handmade, unisex pieces reflect core values of freedom, progress, and inclusivity, designed for individuals who challenge societal norms and express their identity through fashion. Targeting those who embrace sustainability and adventure, EVADE HOUSE’s designs are rooted in historical inspiration, particularly the Baroque period, while remaining strikingly modern. This blend of past and present creates clothing that honors culture yet pushes boundaries in exciting, inclusive ways. Known for their playful and daring approach, EVADE HOUSE experiments with bold fabrics and silhouettes. Their collaboration with Spanish artist Toccororo enhances this edgy aesthetic, combining vibrant, avant-garde visuals with the brand’s progressive style. Together, they’re reshaping Spanish fashion, showing that local creativity can be just as daring and innovative as anything abroad.
ACROMATYX
Acromatyx, founded by Xavi Garcia and Franx de Cristal at the end of 2021, represents a bold reimagining of artisanal tailoring, blending traditional craftsmanship with a modern, versatile approach to fashion. Drawing significant inspiration from techno music, a passion shared by the founders, the brand created a fashion film for their second collection featuring a track by Jaime Ovel, specifically composed for the show. Their third show, titled Calma (Calm), continued to highlight this musical connection, while the fifth show, named TECHNO, brought the relationship between the music and the clothing to the forefront during their MBFW debut in September 2024. Deeply committed to ethical practices, Acromatyx collaborates with local artisans to infuse its collections with mastery and tradition while embracing sustainability. With a very defined aesthetic, the brand emphasizes quality and longevity, creating pieces designed to stand the test of time. More than just a fashion label, Acromatyx embodies a movement for those who seek to express individuality and make a statement, combining innovation, authenticity, and a dedication to redefining conceptual fashion for today’s world.
PALOMO SPAIN
Alejandro Gómez Palomo studied in London before returning to his hometown of Córdoba, Spain, to establish his eponymous brand, Palomo Spain, in 2016. In this vibrant city, he designs and handcrafts every piece of clothing alongside a small, dedicated team. His work is deeply influenced by Spanish tradition—such as flamenco, traje de luces (the suits worn by bullfighters), and the works of Pedro Almodóvar—infusing a modern and sexy sensibility into his designs. The predominant colors of his collections—red, black, and white—are deeply rooted in Spanish culture and intricately connected to the central themes of love and romanticism that permeate his work. This inspiration manifests in creations that range from floral motifs to sheer fabrics, reflecting influences from gay communities, particularly evident in a collection titled Cruising. While his garments are unisex, the models in his shows are primarily men, showcasing a bold and contemporary approach to menswear.
Álvaro Calafat, Carlota Barrera, and Carmen Says are other examples of this movement. While each of these designers brings a unique perspective to the fashion landscape, they share common values of quality, identity, and slow fashion, committing to creating garments designed to last and fostering a sense of community within the industry. It is promising to see young designers fighting to preserve and celebrate their roots and culture. This collective movement not only highlights the richness of Spanish heritage but also emphasizes the potential of local creativity to thrive in a global context, paving the way for a vibrant future in fashion.
Written by Rebecca a GLITCH Magazine Contributor
