Marbella and Malaga are great for shopping, but if you want the full-on retail therapy experience in the run up to Christmas, then head to Madrid and shop ’til you drop. From the pijo paradise of Calle Serrano, to funky Fuencarral, whatever your tastes and budget, Madrid is shopping heaven. Report:  Louise Cook Edwards  Photography: Brands & Gary Edwards

Madrid, if you do not know Spain’s capital, is a city that manages to be cool, friendly, fashionista and classic all that the same time. Famed for its vibrant night-life, late night summer terraces and hedonistic spirit, when it comes to shopping, Madrid certainly doesn’t disappoint. In the age old, bright lights big city tradition, Madrid is a buzzing metropolis filled with breathtaking buildings, magical cityscapes, and iconic attractions which serve as an alluring backdrop to some good old retail therapy.

From the pijo paradise of Calle Serrano, to funky Fuencarral, whatever your tastes and budget, Madrid is shopping heaven. No provincial capital can ever compete with the shopping opportunities afforded by the capital city – and as Spaniards were recently voted the coolest nation in Europe, you can officially call Madrid the capital of cool. Commonly known as the biggest urban shopping area in southern Europe, there are even shopping and gourmet tours you can take to squeeze the maximum retail value out of your flying visit to Madrid.

Sophisticated City Shopping

But for those who like to pound the pavements freestyle, in search of shopping mecca,  Calle Serrano is a great place to start to get you in the madrileño mood.  Forming the hubb of Madrid’s most exclusive neighbourhood, the Barrio Salamanca, this area is home to all the finest designer names, art and antique shops, and the finest brands in the world.  In Serrano you will find international superstars such as  Prada, Ferragamo, Armani, and Yves Saint Laurent, along with Spain’s most celebrated home-grown fashion brands including Loewe, Manolo Blahnik, Carolina Herrera, Carrera & Carrera and Roberto Verino – all huge brands outside the Iberian peninsula. Serrano is also home to one of Zara’s flagship stores – the high street giant started with humble origins in Galicia, and is now in approximately 100 countries worldwide.

C/. Serrano is a wide avenue, buzzing with traffic, and home to the classic Spanish clique, los pijos, here you will see more well-groomed girls and slick hair señores per square metre than anywhere else in Spain.  With a Sloaney English country style, pijos are always immaculate, and shopping for well-cut conservative clothing is high on their list of priorties.

Together with C/ Serrano, neighbouring street, C/. José Ortega & Gasset forms part of Madrid’s Golden Mile. Also brimming with first class brands such as  Chanel, Tiffany & Co, Burberry, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Kenzo, Escada and Hermes, so this privileged neighbourhood is designed for the well-heeled shopper who doesn’t mind paying the premium for the latest in designer fashions. This is also the street to find a flagship Lladró store, if you are passionate about Spain’s most famous brand of decorative porcelain figurines. You’ll find Lladró at C/ Serrano 68.

Peppered with chic cafes and bars, in Calle Serrano you can make a day of it, stopping for lunch and coffee breaks as the mood takes you. There is also a branch of Spanish department store El Corte Inglés, where you will find plenty of designer buys, and a very good perfumeria.

Urban Street Style

New and exciting on the retail scene is the bustling pedestrianized shopping area forming a triangle between the Gran Vía, Corrdera Baja de san Pablo and Calle Fuencarral. Funkier, edgier and aimed at a younger, trendier crowd, this area is brilliant for low-key urban chic, with plenty of jeans stores – such as Diesel, Replay and Levi’s, along with colourful grunge from Desigual, and the latest in trainers from The Puma Store, Adidas and Foot Locker. There are plenty of quirky clothes stores, and great accessories around  -especially in C/ Corredera Baja de San Pablo, with La Tienda de Lolita, Femisa Objetos-Perdidos with some vintage items to be had at Biba Vintage on C/ Velarde, 1.   Also in this neighbourhood  at Fuencarral, 27 is is a fantastic Swedish sweet shop Oomuombu. A  superior chuchería, this candy store lists the ingredients of all sweets, and also serves frozen yogurt.

Close to the funky Fuencarral triangle, you will reach Chueca, also a trendy patch of 21st century Madrid.  Peppered with boutiques, shops, trendy little hotels and restaurants, this area was once a gay stronghold, but has mellowed into a melange of styles and themes. English jewellery designerKaren Hallam has her studio in Plaza Chueca, nearby is trendy T-shirt emporium, El Tintero in C/ Gravina, while Aldaba in C/ Belen 4 is a haven of household gems.

The historical part of the city centre is, as you might expect, populated with many souvenir shops and tourist traps, but it certainly merits a visit.  In the Plaza Mayor itself is an historical sombrería, or hat shop named La Favorita where you can pick up a genuine fedora, o sombrero  de fieltro o cordobés…  The Plaza Mayor is beautiful at Christmas and is peppered with stalls selling Christmas trees, trinkets and traditional figurines for the Belén, or decorative Nativity Scenes that you find in homes  all around Spain.  You will also enjoy the inviting aroma of roasted chestnuts sold all over the city centre throughout the chilly Madrid winter.

Close to the centre is the famous Rastro – the flea market to end all flea markets. This one stretches out across a whole neighbourhood of Madrid south of the Plaza Mayor. Every Sunday – and  also on public holidays.  Here you will also find antique shops  selling among other things,  great art deco finds.

A Classic Hotel for Christmas (or pre Christmas) in Madrid

The fabulous Gran Hotel Conde Duque is an atmospheric hotel in which to spend some time Christmas shopping – during the coming Puente de la Constitución 3-6th December 6th is a public holiday), or to have a memorable Christmas getaway in Madrid.  With double rooms from a reasonable 80 euros a night, this is one luxurious place to stay for service, style and value for money.   The Gran Hotel Conde Duque has a fantastic offer in the pre-Christmas period, particularly for culture vultures.  They are offering a special package which includes a two night stay for two, two buffet breakfasts (one of the best in town!) and two tickets for the Russian Imperial Ballet’s version of The Nutcracker – at the nearby Compac Theatre on the Gran Vía, all for an incredible 130€.

Centrally located close to C/ Princesa  and the Gran Vía, the Gran Hotel Conde Duque is a haven of comfort, style and good service.  You can also opt to use the services of the hotel’s personal shopper – or take one of three tempting tapas routes  – with a guide – through different neighbourhoods of Madrid.

For further details or reservations please see www.hotelcondeduque.es or call Tel: 91447 7000.

For a full report on the hotel, one of marbellas.com’s favourites in the capital, don’t miss our complete review right here Hotel Conde Duque Madrid on marbellas

Marbella Luxury Weekend raises the High Octane Luxury Stakes in Puerto Banús. A 10 million dollar violin, a 400,000 euro Rolex, the launch of a new McLaren, fashion shows and shop openings, celebrities flying in from the four corners of the globe, The Marbella Luxury Weekend promises to be the biggest showcase of extravagance Spain has ever seen….putting Marbella once again at the centre of the world’s stage for fashion and high end tourism.  Louise Cook Edwards previews the four-day homage to unabashed consumerism.

Expectation is growing for the imminent Marbella Luxury Weekend, taking place from 2-5th June in Puerto Banús.  With an astonishing 30 brands taking part, the event promises to be a never-seen-before display of everything Marbella is famous for: fashion, designer shopping, fabulous jewelry, fast cars and heaps of glamorous people coiffing champagne.

But without talking too lightly about Marbella Luxury Weekend, the event is a masterpiece of management and organization, and behind the upcoming four day programme of fashion shows, shop launches, world premieres of fashion and jewelry items and luxury cars, yacht displays, and a clutch of cultural interludes, all fuelled by copious quantities of champagne and canapés, no less than two years of monumental coaxing and planning has gone into pulling together this extraordinary treat for lovers of luxury.

Miguel Gomez & Jose Luis Hernandez – Key Figures

At a packed press conference at Gomez & Molina jewelers, Jose Luis Hernandez, Marbella’s Councillor for Tourism highlighted the fact that 200 people are actively involved in the planning and creation of the Marbella Luxury Weekend, an event which under its frivolous facade has a serious message and purpose.  ” The Marbella Luxury Weekend has been conceived primarily to kick-start consumption in a depressed economy.”  The consumer sector represents 65% of Spain’s gross national product – an even bigger slice of the economy than property and construction – so it is vitally important to get people spending and shopping again,” added Hernández, who cites the event as a huge achievement for Marbella, and the kind of initiative which does justice to Marbella as a 5-star holiday destination.

Jose Luis Hernandez also stressed the key role played by jeweler, Miguel Gomez in orchestrating this multi-brand event, saying simply, that without Miguel’s input, it would be virtually impossible to get the Marbella Luxury Weekend off the ground.  “Miguel is one of a rare breed of entrepreneurs in Marbella, the kind that can stay the course when the going gets tough, and follow through on ideas, no matter how many obstacles are put in the way…”   For more than 40 years, Gomez & Molina have showcased many of the world’s leading brands in Marbella – and along with his ideas and creativity, Miguel’s relationship with these brands has made a huge contribution to making this event a reality”.

For his part, Miguel Gomez, mentioned the twenty or so jewelry brands that his firm will be showcasing at the Marbella Luxury Event, including Chanel, Rolex, Ebel, Hublot, Davidoff, Boucheron, Antonini, Ulysse Nardin, and not surprisingly, a great many world firsts and outstanding achievements of the four day event will take place within the walls of the Gomez & Molina jewelry store.  Among the brands presenting their latest time pieces and jewelry lines are Rolex – who will show off the only 400,000 euros watch in Spain,  Osborne Toro watch – including the Marbella model – and the world premier of the Heritage watch collection by -Alexander Shorokhoff.

The Fashion Pack

Fashionistas will be in for a treat, with the launch of Tom Ford’s first collection of womenswear,  the launch of the latest Dolce & Gabbana collections,  a preview of Jimmy Choo’s winter shoe collections, while most of the port’s boutiques will be offering guests cocktails and treats all weekend long.  Fashion shows will take place in the evenings on a high impact catwalk taking central stage in the Paseo Benabola. The piece de resistance has to be the launch of edgy celeb favourite, A&G Rock and Roll Couture, who have set up shop right next to Versace at the entrance to the port. With cool followers such as Gisele Bündchen, Naomi Campbell and Ashton Kutcher, this brand is about to bring Marbella a taste of serious street-cred.  Fans of rock chic among the MLW’s VIP guests, can meet the brand’s creator Amal Guessous at an after-show party.

Adding further luxury and opulence to the already outstanding line-up of launches and world-firsts, the assembled VIP guests will be treated to an extraordinary selection of culinary experiences, including fine wines, champagnes,  sushi, exotic Mediterranean canapés, chocolate fountains and lashings of caviar….  There will even be a private launch of Ice Imperial – the latest creation from Möet et Chandon.

With celebrities such as Ivana Trump and Adnan Kashoggi, Ana Obregón and Marisa Berenson in town, Marbella Luxury Weekend is due to bring back some of that old-style Marbella glamour, big time…

Inspired by Nature, each piece of jewellery is a unique, work of art, hand-crafted in the style of traditional artisans in gold, silver and precious stones. Delicate, feminine and wistful, Amae’s quirky pieces, particularly the signature “Frog & Dragonfly” necklace, will appeal to jewellery collectors who aspire to own individual pieces, without paying the price tags frequently associated with world-renowned jewellery brands.

In Amae, the French-born founder, Caroline Bernard Rittener, a resident of the Costa del Sol for many years, has created the perfect synthesis of her own creative drive and the collective talents and experience of her team. Starting with her own Parisian artistic sensibilities, Caroline has marketing qualifications, and considerable work experience in the promotion of luxury ítems – creating a sturdy base from which to explore the possibilities of successful artistic expression.

“ A few years ago, I felt a strong creative urge, and began experimenting with painting, writing and collecting gem stones,” reveals Caroline. “I found I was drawn to creating images of jewellery, and although I did not have the technical expertise to bring my drawings to life, I have since done that with the help of my team, jewellery designer Javier Ruiz Ortiz, who worked at emblematic jewellery house, Carrera y Carrera and Juan José, an accomplished artisan. who now lovingly gives form to Amae’s designs in his Malaga atelier”.

Collective Talents

Such perfect synergy of skills and sensibilities has resulted in the first collection by Amae, encompassing five unique lines and a total of 14 different pieces including rings, earrings, necklaces and pendants.

The circular, Flor Inca pendants show off to perfection the craftsmanship of Amae’s team.  Forged in rhodium plated silver, there are two versions, one featuring an amethyst and the other a bright green malachite.  Highly original is the Luna, or Moon pendant, a bright blue disc of lapiz lazuli, topped and tailed with a gold moon and stars,
with a twinkling diamond.

The Frog and Dragonfly necklace is a quirky piece – a miniature wearable sculpture – featuring a leaping frog perched on a piece of twig, and a fluttering dragonfly, all crafted
In rhodium plated silver, and completed with a ruby eye and turquoise dragonfly wings. This is also available in white or yellow gold, with prices ranging from  820€ to 1520€.

Our personal favourite is the delicate Simbiosis necklace – a contemporary classic in the finest yellow gold. Suspended from the choker style necklace are five fine strands topped in translucent spheres of amethyst, citrine and amazonite.  The modern masterpiece has matching earrings finished with simple citrine spheres.  Also outstanding is the Rock a Ring collection – five strong pieces in a variety of colours and finishes that would spectacularly complement any fashion statement.

Amae’s debut collection is on display throughout December in the lobby of the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Bahia Estepona and in 2011, the brand will be launching in London and Paris.    For further details visit. www.amaecreation.com

In a matter of hours, the historic Casco Antiguo, or Old Town Marbella seduced America’s first lady, Michelle Obama, during her recent stay. Not surprising really, what’s not to love?, says marbellas.com…

Optimism is flowing through the veins of the business community in the Casco Antiguo, or Old Town, Marbella following the surprise visit to her quaint cobbled streets by none other than America’s First Lady, Michelle Obama last summer. Bringing back a touch of “chic” to polish up Marbella’s image, the Obama factor seems to have done the trick, and many Old Town empresarios reported that this was their best summer in years with visitors flooding in from all corners of the globe – including Americans, naturally.

It would be rare not to succumb to the Old Town’s charms. A heady blend of history, romantic meandering cobbled streets, churches, markets, an endless stream of irresistible shops, quirky bars and a vast choice of restaurants, along with the alluring scent of orange blossom… the Old Town is Marbella at its best, a picture postcard setting in which to experience a feast for the senses. (How Marbella Seduced Mrs. Obama).  And far from being a tourist trap, the Old Town is the one place to feel the true beating heart of the fishing village turned cosmopolitan international resort.

Ten Quirky Facts about Marbella’s Old Town

1. Orange Square dates back to the Spanish Reconquest and was built in 1485.

2. The Old Town is home to more than 200 shops…

3. Mrs. Obama’s party of 14 asked for 10 separate bills after dining at Restaurante Buenaventura.

4. Popular tapas bar, El Estrecho dates back to 1954. Take a tapas tour and enjoy a real taste of the Old Town.

5. Head to Calle Huerta Chica and discover smart cookery shop Cuisine Paraiso – a recently opened gem.

6. You can enjoy a rooftop breakfast at delightful boutique hotel The Townhouse.

7. The Old Town is a haven for shoe addicts, with around 15 shoe shops… who’s counting?

8. You can see works of great artists including Picasso, Miró and Chillida in the Old Town, at the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo (the Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings).

9. For an insight into the local culture hit the Mercado Municipal – and find a cornucopia of deliciously fresh produce…

10. Bored with Banús?, then hit the Calle Peral and discover the true Spanish nightlife vibe…

The Shops

Let’s start with a little retail therapy… The Old Town is one of Andalusia´s most beautiful  “open commercial centres” with more than 40 restaurants and 200 shops to offer. Here, you will find small, family-run businesses and shops, purveying originality, with many hand-made and bespoke goods on offer. Here are just a few of the gems sparkling on the sidewalks…

• The vintage Hermés bag or that Gucci belt you always wanted in the divine retro boutique Dejá Vu.
• The most beautiful collection of exclusive pashminas in every imaginable colour in Story 1961.
• An exceptional collection of top olive oils from various regions in Spain, cosmetics and gourmet-items  – all beautifully packaged – in D.Oliva.
• International fashion brands including Roberto Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Liu, Jo Jeans and Julie Sohn in the exclusive boutique K2
• Beautiful “old fashioned” toys such as puppets, doll houses, music boxes, authentic model airplanes, motors, rocking horses, in The Toy Shop
• Irresistible items for the discerning cook in a new shop Cuisine Paraiso.

There is no shortage of quaint little boutiques specializing in silver jewellery, or soaps, bags and accessories, hand-made shirts and so on… along with souvenir shops, satisfying the demands of the endless stream of tourists with cameras meandering through the streets of the Casco Antiguo..

Let’s Eat

The shop owners in the Old Town agree that the excellent choice of restaurants contributes enormously to the success of the Casco Antiguo.  The tried and tested favourites of the local foreign residents is a good place to start… Among them, people unanimously rate highly the Belgian run restaurant Zozoi, French bistro CasaNis and cosy Italian classic La Famiglia.

Known for fantastic tapas is El Estrecho …a classic since 1954. Also popular is La Niña del Pisto a new restaurant run by a family from Cordoba, offering “tapas del autor”. Also coming highly recommended is Stuzzikini a new reasonable restaurant offering Italian “slow food”…

Restaurante Cervantes in Plaza de los Naranjos is also a promising newcomer. Offering a modern twist on Spanish and International dishes, the monkfish on a bed of garlic is particularly memorable. Located across from the Town Hall, the restaurant offers views to the iconic Orange Square. A wood-burning stove makes for a cosy atmosphere for the winter.

A Brief History

The Old Town was once an Arab “medina”, which explains the maze of narrow, winding streets, allowing the visitor to stroll and be protected from the sun. Remainders of the old city walls and many more interesting historic sites can still be admired today. Orange Square was built in 1485, shortly after the Reconquista,.  For more insight into the historical heritage of Marbella , for 3 euros, you can pick up a booklet prepared by the Association of Trade and Commerce of the Casco Antiguo at  Calle Bermeja, 20.

What to Do…?

Apart from the churches, vestiges of Arab remains, galleries and museums, etcetera, there are many free events held in the Old Town throughout the year – (although sadly, the annual Feria in June has been relocated, and will never be quite so appealing). Regularly check out our calendar of events , and you will discover such delights as open air jazz, blues and soul concerts, festivals of dance and magic, British and Italian Festivals and exhibitions of paintings and photography, even outdoor fashion shows. For Spanish speakers there is children’s story-telling and Father Christmas greeting children in the Church Square over La Navidad.

The typical Marbella girl will have a wardrobe bursting with colour. From sultry maxi dresses for those long balmy evenings and gorgeous gold sandals for nights of pure glitz at Nikki Beach to laid-back khaki shorts and shirts and drawers brimming with beautiful bikinis. But as every fashionista knows, a girl can never have too many of these things so let us give you the lowdown on where to get Marbella’s hottest looks.

Shop ‘til you drop!

Marbella is renowned worldwide for its super-sexy, ultra-wealthy residents as well as attracting trendy jet-set tourists from far and wide – so it’s no wonder the place is filled with some of the most up-market boutiques, sleekest shopping centres and glamorous department stores. From Prada shoes and Porsches to bikinis and Bentleys, Marbella has it all.

Whether you’re after a sexy little number for the evening, a casual look for the beach or a raunchy lingerie set, Marbella’s excellent of offering of shops and boutiques will have you looking every inch the glamour-puss in no time!

La Cañada

Featuring an impressive number of high street shops, restaurants and cafés, La Cañada is by far one of the best shopping centres on the Costa del Sol.

Big brands such as Mango, H&M, Massimo Dutti, Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Benneton can all be found here. Old British favourites, C&A and the recently opened Marks & Spencer are popular with expats and offer the same high quality clothing as they’ve done for decades.

If you’re looking for a cute, low-budget summer outfit (think denim shorts, a simple vest and sexy wedges), then you’ll be spoilt for choice at La Cañada.

Accessorize has a branch here too – perfect for adding a finishing touch to your outfit (think twinkling bracelets and brooches, dramatic necklaces, rings and purses). Or, if you’re in the mood splashing your cash on something a bit more bling, pop into the Swarovski store and bag yourself something shiny.

Best for: Quick fashion fixes.

Puerto Banús

If you’re a label junkie, then Puerto Banus will be your idea of heaven. With exclusive boutiques such as Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Loewe, Chloé, Luis Vuitton, Hermes, Emporio Armani, Versace and more.

But before you invest in that to-die-for Dior clutch, get your underwear sorted first with a visit to Agent Provocateur – awash with the sexiest, laciest and most luxurious lingerie you’re every likely to come across. From beautiful basques and bustiers to heart-stopping hoisery and killer kimonos, there’s something that’s bound to please you (and him).

Next stop: Chloé for a flirty, feminine fragrance that’ll compliment your new lingerie.
Then, browse the likes of LV and D&G for an extravagant but elegant cocktail dress. Then seal the deal with a pair of killer heels from the shoe heaven that is of course, Jimmy Choo.

If you’re after something glam but don’t want to traipse from boutique to boutique, head for El Corte Ingles, where you can find everything under one roof. As well as designer clothing, shoes and accessories and jewellery, this divine department store offers everything from literature and music to sports equipment, children’s toys, furniture and cosmetics. Brands include Ralph Lauren, French Connection, Escada, Jesus del Pozo and hundreds more.

Best for: Glamorous, wealthy label-loving ladies.

Marbella Centro

As well as Spanish high street favourites, Mango, Pull & Bear and Zara, downtown Marbella is full of one-off shops and boutiques that’ll ensure your style is as hot as the temperatures!

If you’re heading to the beach, check out Calzedonia – with hundreds of statement bikinis and all-in-one costumes and a window display which changes daily, you’re certain to find something gorgeous.

Recently opened Jota will give you inspiration for accessorising, with its unique yet affordable costume jewellery, bags and scarves. Bijou Brigitte in Marbella’s Old Town is also worth a visit, particularly if you’re looking for inexpensive but dramatic accessories. The Old Town offers dozens of independent shops, such as Deja Vú – a treasure trove of vintage clothing, antiques and accessories for those who really want to stand out from the crowd.

Best for: Kooky, individual girls.

Elsewhere on the coast…

Estepona

Elle Morgan is one of the coast’s most talked about names when it comes to fashion. Her boutique, situated in the lavish Laguna Village shopping centre in Estepona, offers all the latest trends from designer brands such as Elizabeth Hurley Beach, Gas, Gaultier and UGG Australia. Elle’s clothing, footwear, jewellery, kids clothes and accessories make it onto the catwalks at all the coast’s most exclusive events plus she’s even styled Lyndsay Parfitt (wife of rock legend Rick Parfitt) for Hello! Magazine!

Best for: Sexy bikinis and beach accessories.

Nueva Andalucía

If you’re in the Nueva Andalucía area, head to Nina B. She offers brands such as Odd Molly, Hunky Dory, English Rose, Stella Forest, Good Charma and Branting and describes her collections as ‘bohemian chic with a Scandinavian touch’.

Best for: Girlie glamour.

Elviria

Mother and Daughter venture, Fashion Villa, is a must-visit for anyone who considers themself a fashionista. Set in a live-in villa in the heart of Elviria, this über-chic establishment houses designer brands such as Airfield, Cambio and Cappopera in styles and sizes to suite every shape. The ladies are on-hand to offer guidance and tips – without being pushy!

Best for: Something a bit different.

Rio Real

Argentinean fashion designer, Patricia Nahmad is a well-known name on the coast. As well as supporting dozens of local charities, she provides Marbella’s most glam girls with sophisticated evening wear at her boutique, situated in the Incosol Hotel, close to Rio Real. Daughter, Florencia, has followed in her mother’s fashion footsteps by launching an urban line for hip young females.

Best for: Long, luxurious evening gowns.

Addresses

La Cañada Shopping Centre: Carretera Ojen (off the A7 Motorway), Centro Comercial La Cañada 29600, Marbella. Tel: 952 860 142.

Dior: Calle Ribera, Casa F, Local 15B, Puerto Banus, Marbella 29660. Tel. +34 952 90 65 25.

Dolce & Gabbana: Pueblo Marinero De Ribera, Local 17, Casa F, Puerto Banus, 29660 Marbella. Phone: 952 818 520.

Loewe: Muelle Ribera, Local 15C, Casa F Puerto Banus, 29660 Marbella. Tel: 952 81 62 65.

Chloé: Muelle De Ribera, Local 16 Casa F, 29660 Marbella. Tel: 952 90 70 38.

Louis Vuitton: Muelle Ribera, Casa N, Puerto Banus, 29660 Marbella. Tel: 95 290 8190.

Hermes: Calle Ribera 11, Bajo, Casa E, Puerto Banus, 29660 Marbella. Tel: 952 81 71 25.

Emporio Armani: Muelle Ribera, s/n. Puerto Banús, 29660 Marbella. Tel: 952 810 932.

Versace: Benabola 8, Puerto Banus, 29660, Marbella. Tel: 952 810 296.

Agent Provocateur: Muelle Ribera, Casa N, Local 12, Puerto Banus, 29660 Marbella.

El Corte Ingles Puerto Banus: Centro Comercial Costa Marbella, Ramón Areces, S/N, Puerto Banús, 29660 Marbella Tel.: 952 909 990.

Mango (Marbella town centre): Avenida de Ricardo Soriano, 17, 29601 Marbella. Tel: 952 771 488.

Pull & Bear (Marbella town centre): Avenida de Ricardo Soriano, 26, 29601 Marbella. Tel: 952 862 838?.

Zara (Marbella town centre): Avenida de Ricardo Soriano, 43, 29601 Marbella. Tel: 952 820 852?.

Calzedonia: Avenida de Ricardo Soriano 26 29600 Marbella. Tel: 952 824 458.

Jota (Marbella town centre): Avenida de Ricardo Soriano nº 12, Edificio Marqués de Salamanca, Marbella. Tel. 952 905 068.

Bijou Brigitte (Marbella Old Town): Calle Gloria, 2,  Casco Antiguo, 29601 Marbella.  Tel: 952 859 868.

Déjà vu (Marbella Old Town): Calle Pedraza, 8, Casco Antiguo, 29601 Marbella. Tel: 952 812 881.

Elle Morgan (Laguna Village): Unit 29 and 31, Laguna Village, A-7, km.159, 29680 Estepona. Tel: 647 869 831.

Nina B: Calle de las Malvas, 62 Nueva Andalucia, 29660 Marbella. Tel: 952 907 020.

Patricia Nahmad: Hotel Incosol, Urbanizacion Golf Rio Real S/N, 29600 Marbella. Tel: 952 860 909.

Fashion Villa: Paseo de Suiza 394, Elviria, Marbella 29604.

If buying clothes for your kids in Spain is becoming a pain, perhaps it’s time to shop online!
We’ve hand-picked 5 of the best kids clothing retailers to get your sprogs looking every inch the Marbella prince or princess!

1. www.alexandalexa.com

If you thought fashion was just for grown-ups, think again. This London-based company have got trendy togs down to a T and with renowned designers such as Ralph Lauren , Roberto Cavalli, Little Paul & Joe and Cacharel, your little nippers will look nothing less than rock royalty.

Since the summer of 2007, husband and wife team, Alex Theophanus and Alexa Till, have been creating stylish, high quality clothing and accessories for girls and boys aged 2 – 14.

As well as the big names, Alexandalexa.com stock a wide range of clothing by contemporary kids fashion designers like Finger in the Nose, Muchacha and Quincy.

The website itself is almost as stylish as the clobber available on it, it’s easy to navigate and displays in-depth descriptions of each item so you know exactly what you’re buying.

For girls, they offer a vast array of cutesy cardigans, very-British blazers, casual skirts, party dresses, tops and swimwear. Boys are also spoilt for choice with everything from Calvin Klein boxer shorts, distressed denim jeans and über-cool hoodies to crisp white shirts and classic chinos.

Shipping to Spain costs £7.50 via standard shipping and and takes up to 2 weeks.  Express shipping costs £12.50 and can take up to 3 days to arrive.

Best for: Stylish statement outfits.

2. www.littlefashiongallery.com

Cool, contemporary and cute, littlefashiongallery.com offers catwalk-inspired looks from over 130 top designers such as Little Marc Jacobs, Imps & Elfs and Sophie Gachet for Elle for boys and girls aged 2 – 10.

The boys section includes everything from comfortable casuals like cargo pants and bermuda shorts, graphic tees and lumberjack-style shirts to jeans, smart v-neck sweaters and suede shoes.

The girls section is just as plentiful, with everything from pretty embroidered tops, colourful sundresses, frilly skirts and jeans to summery sandals, winter wellies and funky accessories like alice bands, printed satchels and straw hats.

Bibs, bonnets, jumpsuits and jeans are also available for babies aged 0 – 18 months, as well as a wide selection of booties, accessories and furniture for the nursery or playroom.

Delivery to Spain costs 15€ for clothing in Category 0 and 20€ for clothing in Category 1 and takes up to 72 hours to arrive with UPS.

Best for: Finding an adorable outfit for your little angel.

3. www.childrensalon.com

Juicy Couture, DKNY, Fendi, Escada and Dior are among the big names you’ll find on childrensalon.com, a luxury children’s’ clothing store which has been around since 1952.

As well as an impressive selection of designer names to choose from, childrensalon.com boasts its own exclusive collections, consisting of smart tailored suits, casual wear and traditional wool coats for boys to beautiful handmade dresses, pretty hair bows, Irish Linen gowns and fairytale princess tiaras for girls.

You’ll find everything from snug underwear, slippers and wellies to dressing-up costumes, communion dresses and dazzling jewellery on the website too.

Standard shipping to Spain costs £6.95 and takes 3-7 days. Express shipping to Spain costs £16.95 and takes 1-3 days.

Best for: Fancy or fun outfits.

4. www.frenchconnection.com

Kids who like to look cool will love browsing the FC:Kids collection. Its bang-up-to-the-minute trends are always hot off the latest runways and are designed to fit fashion concious girls and boys between the ages of 2 and 13.

Floaty dresses, snuggly knits, cosy leggings and cool denims are available in the girls section and a range of sale items can also be viewed, usually with some very good reductions.

Polo shirts, jeans, biker jackets and comfy hoodies are what the boys section is all about. A wardrobe full of this cool clobber is certain to earn your little tyke some credibility on the playground!

Babies aged 0-18 months can also get kitted out in French Connection, thanks to the new FC:Baby range, which features oh-so-cute sleepsuits, simple seperates and bodysuits.

Shipping to Spain costs £10 for 1 – 4 items  and £15 for 5+ more items and delivery times may vary.

Best for: High quality casual wear.

5. www.nappyhead.co.uk

A bit of a joker? Well now your family can follow in your funny footsteps! Nappyhead.co.uk offers a range of good quality clothing for babies, toddlers, kids and parents featuring vibrant, comical slogans that are guaranteed to get you noticed.

All products are ethically produced and made from 100% Cotton. No harmful chemicals are used at any point during the production process and all slogans are printed with safe, non-toxic liquids.

The site is bursting with colourful kids tees (0-4 years), funky babygrows (0-12 months), maternity clothes (sizes S to XL) and men’s t-shirts (sizes M to XL), all with laugh-out-loud phrases printed across the chest.

Our favourites are:

‘Saw it, wanted it, threw a tantrum, got it!’ – Baby’s tee.
‘If you think I’m a mess, you should see my Daddy!’ – Baby’s tee.
‘Me’ and ‘Mini Me’ – Dad and baby t-shirts.
‘It’s not over til the fat lady screams!’ – Maternity t-shirt.
‘He did it’ and ‘She did it’ -  Tees for twins.

There’s also a personalisation service which allows you to have your family name printed on footie shirts and footballs.

Costs for shipping to Spain vary depending on the total amount of your order and delivery takes up to 10 days.

Best for: Something a little bit different.

Pregnancy is all about growing and glowing, so why shouldn’t
this be a time to shine? Gone are the days when women hid their bumps beneath
baggy jumpers and tent dresses. Today maternity fashion is about being  proud
of your bump and womanly curves and showing them off. Yet the pregnancy wardrobe
is a minefield. When and how do you start shopping to accommodate your bump?
Surely you don’t need a whole new wardrobe for just nine months?

Maternity clothing v  bigger sizes 
Bigger sizes may do in the short term, but you won’t get the longevity
of maternity clothing which is designed to flatter and accommodate a growing
bump all the way through pregnancy. A pair of trousers two sizes too big
might fit for a few months, but they won’t be comfy on your bump and
won’t take into account your growing bottom, thighs and hips as well.
Maternity trousers not only cater for expansion in all areas but are designed
to disguise and flatter the additional weight gain while showing off the
beauty of your gorgeous growing bump. The end result is that you feel  confident
while pregnant instead of awkward and uncomfortable.
The materials in maternity clothing are softer and more flexible than those
used in normal clothes. They will not only grow with you and be comfortable
right up until the day you give birth, but they will then shrink back again
in the post pregnancy months. The truth is it takes nine months to put the
weight on and it generally takes nine months to take it off again. So unless
your name is Nicole Richie or Victoria Beckham you certainly won’t
be strutting your post pregnancy bod in your pre pregnancy jeans two weeks
after giving birth. The beauty of good quality maternity clothing is that
it shrinks back down with you post birth and most maternity tops are also
designed to accommodate breast feeding.

Maternity Fashion Essentials

The Bump Band
You don’t need to invest in an entirely new wardrobe a few maternity
staples go a long way. The Bumpband is an ingenious invention that has revolutionised
maternity wardrobes. The Bumpband is a piece of stretchy material that fits
over your bump and the top of your trousers or skirt allowing you to wear
your non maternity items for longer. So for example, if you can still get
your beloved jeans over your hips but can’t do up the zip, you can
use a Bumpband to  cover the gap, giving the appearance of a layered
top effect.  Likewise you can wear your favourite tops for longer and
not worry as they start to ride up your midriff!

Leggings
Another essential is a great pair of comfy maternity leggings. These can
be worn around the house, dressed up with boots or heels, worn with dresses
or a denim skirt over the top or just with a long comfy jumper.

Jeans
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good pair of maternity jeans.
Again a well designed maternity jean will see you through your pregnancy
and beyond and can be dressed up or down in a number of ways.

Little Dress
Finally no maternity wardrobe is complete without one flexible little dress.
A nice dress can be worn for work and then dressed up for an evening out.
Or dress it down with boots or over leggings.

Optical Illusions
There are also a number of clever ways to complement (or disguise!)  your
bump depending on the look you are going for:
– a well placed scarf either draped over the bump or tied under it
– an eye catching piece of costume jewellery
– a cute pair of boots 
– big hair or a hat that will all balance out your curves 

For the recent Indybel Maternity Fashion in Estepona show we
deliberately choose real pregnant women to model our maternity ranges. When
they first tried the outfits on they were amazed by how  sensual and
sexy they made them feel. That’s the real secret of looking great during
pregnancy. Maternity clothing is not just something you need to see you through
9 months of weight gain, it is actually designed to show off the natural
beauty of your changing body shape, highlight the pregnancy glow and make
you look as wonderful on the outside as you feel on the inside.

Indybel are the exclusive stockists for Seraphine Maternity
clothing in Spain. As worn by Angelina Jolie, Jessica Alba and Halle Berry
during their pregnancies. Indybel also stock the JoJo Maman Bebe maternity
range, Emma-Jane maternity lingerie and the Bumpband. For more information
visit www.indybel.com

Indybel are offering all marbellas.com readers a free pair of
pregnancy lounge pants with any purchase they make from our site. To take
advantage
of this
offer simply type the word marbellas.com in the customer notes box at the
check out stating whether you’d prefer black or white and we’ll
add the pants to your package!

Once or twice a week each town and village on the Costa del Sol, hosts its very own mercardillo (local market). It is an important part of Spanish life and a real high point of the week for many.

Noisy, fun, colourful, entertaining and an experience not to be missed, the markets are great fun, whether you plan to buy anything or not. They have, for many generations, provided the local community with a huge variety of products and each one is different.

Some are great combinations of flea markets and car boot sales, where you can get your hands on some amazing bargains and soak up the atmosphere at the same time…

In almost every market you will find local goods such as flowers, plants, furniture, hand-made jewellery, clothes, bags, shoes, hardware, linen, antiques things and many traditional Andalusian products. The markets are a great place to buy Moorish pottery, Moroccan clothing and decorative items, Arabic metalwork, wood and brassware. Senegalese carved wood statues also, along with imported handicrafts from Thailand and Indonesia such as rattan, clothing and jewellery can also be found.

Copies of designer bags, watched, sunglasses and clothing can also be found at many of the markets. Don’t be fooled, they are not the real McCoy, but are worth a look if you can’t afford a few thousand for the latest Chloe design or are still struggling to save for those Jimmy Choos.

Just remember, they tend to come with only one guarantee – that you will never
get your money back under any circumstances. Happy hunting.

Monday Markets:

• Marbella: from 9 am to 2 pm, at the Recinto Ferial de Arroyo Primero (Las Albarizas
  area). Includes food, flowers, clothes and shoes.
• Alora: Plaza Baja Street market
• Torrox: Market at El lano and in Urb. Costa de Oro
• Malaga: in Campaniallas in the Barriada de la Luz

Tuesday Markets:

• Fuengirola: Puerto Deportivo, the biggest market on the coast and it attracts
  visitors from nearby resorts as well as the local’s. Here you can find
  fruit, vegetables, plants, olives, nuts, ceramics, pottery, handicrafts,
  housewares and traditional Andalusian produce. Many of the stalls sell the
  same kind of things, so try a bit of haggling. Around the market there are
  lots of bars so you can have a rest, drink and something to eat while you
  keep your eyes peeled for more bargains.
• Alozaina: street market
• Nerja: in the El Chaparril area on Calle Antonio Ferrandis
• Malaga: Churriana in Puerto de la Torre
• Marbella: at the Recinto Ferial
• Benahavis: Street market at the Avda. de Andalucia
• Algeciras: at the Barriada Salidillo
• Tarifa: Calle Padre Pont

Wednesday Markets:

• Estepona: from 9am to 2pm in the town centre, Avenida Juan Carlos I, next to
  the Recinto Ferial. Large and well organised with a great variety of stalls.
  There’s limited parking nearby, so make sure you get there early.
• Benalmadena: Flea Market at Parque de la Paloma, Recinto Ferial
• Malaga: in the barriada Huelin and the barriada de la Paz districts
• Mijas Costa: in La Cala
• Istan: at the entrance of the town
• Alhaurin de la Torre: Avda del Limon
• Rincon de La Victoria: Plaza de Supersol
• also markets in La Linea, Arroya de la Miel, Torrox

Thursday Markets:

• Alhaurin el Grande: on the Feria Ground
• San Pedro de Alcantara: Calle Jorge Guillen, Recinto Ferial in the Divina
  Pastora District
• Torre del Mar: next to Conj Europa
• Torremolinos: at the Recinto Feria near the Aqua Park
• Velez Malaga: Barraida Cruz Humiladero, in the Parque Juan Jurado Lorca opposite
  the Guardia Civil
• Guaro: Avda de Andalucia
• Barbate: Calle Zabal

Friday Markets:

• Marbella: Casco Antiguo market (Old Town)
• Las Chapas: from 9am to 2pm. Behind the ‘Tenencia de Alcaldía’ building.
  Clothes and fruit and vegetables.
• Sabinillas: in the town (Manilva), small local market.
• Benalmadena: market with foodstuff. Plaza del Alguail, behind the station
  in Arroyo de Miel.
• Cartama: at the Feria Ground
• Aguamania: Country Farmer’s Market
• Casares: Calle Penon Roao
• Malaga: Los Corazones
• Mijas Costa: Urb. Calypso

Saturday Markets:

• Nueva Andalucía: Every Saturday from 9am to 2pm. arround the bullring.
  Absolutely the best market for antiques and art from Spain and from other
  countries around the world. Beautiful furniture, mirrors lamps, crystals,
  hand made jewellery, carpets, sculptures, bags, sunglasses, shoes, leather
  goods and home-ware. The stalls spread in all directions. Best to park at
  the bottom end of the town near the N340 and walk up (10 minutes). Lots of
  places to eat and drink around the market.
• Fuengirola: Every Saturday morning, street market held in the Fairy
  Compound. Come early, it is a huge second hand, flea and boot market. Packed
  with bargains. A perfect place if you have just moved to Spain and are looking
  for unusual items to fill up your new home, from second hand clothing to
  antique maps, video equipment and furniture, as well as household items
  and thousands of cheap second-hand goods.
• Malaga: in the Huelin district and the El Palo district on Calle Argenteo
• Coin: at Feria Ground
• Ojen: Plaza de Andalucia at the Pueblo
• La Cala: Street market
• Estepona: at Recinto Feria
• Istan: Entrance to Town
• Mijas Costa: Las Lagunas

Sunday Markets:

• Ronda: Every Sunday from 9am to 2pm at San Francisco district.
• Estepona: Every Sunday, around the small port. Lots of bars around the market
  to eat and drink.
• Sabinillas: Every Sunday, market and car boot sale, alongside the N340 highway.
  Late starting but full of bargains. Good Moroccan and Indian items. Nearby
  bars become packed very quickly.
• Fuengirola: Sunday art market at the Fuengirola Port in the afternoon/evening
• Monda: Every Sunday from 11am to 4pm there is a Market at the Marbella Gun
  and Country Club in Monda.
• Malaga: Avda.de Martiricos, near the Rosaleda Football Stadium
• Torremolinos: Recinto Ferrial, near the crocodile park.
• Nerja: between Urbanizacion Flamingo and Almizara II
• Sotogrande: Puerto Deportivo

And don’t forget, half of the pleasure is trying to haggle on the price,
so get practicing your Spanish and try and nab yourself a great deal.

Jewellery is always a hit at Valentine’s Day and Cartier has
produced a bracelet that not only looks great, but also helps you do your bit
for charity. Costing 435€, the unisex bracelet has a white gold central
piece on which the word LOVE is engraved. It is then fastened with a coloured,
silk, cord strap. The colour of the strap you choose represents a different
charity, with 100€ from every bracelet purchased going to each particular
worthy cause. Wear your heart on your sleeve this Valentine’s Day with
Cartier’s bracelet of love.

Cartier
Avda. Ricardo Soriano, 12, 29600, Marbella.
Tel: 952 765 121

Now available in gloriously girly, bubblegum pink, the iPod Nano makes a small,
but perfectly formed gift for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy TV shows, movies
and music on the move, this bright young thing is sure to bring a smile wherever
it goes. Available in Marbella at FNAC and El Corte
Ingles.

FNAC
Centro Comercial La Cañada s/n, 29600, Marbella.
Tel: 952 899 300

El Corte Ingles
Ramon Areces, 29660, Puerto Banus.
Tel: 952 909 990

If you’re looking for a unique Valentine’s Day gift that will
last a lifetime, get down to the Castle Gallery in Guadalmina.
Show your love with a piece of limited edition art and impress your loved one
with something from their special Valentine’s range.

Castle Galleries
Centro Comercial Guadalmina, Local 24, Guadalmina.
Tel: 952 885 884

Create your very own Valentine’s Day gift at the Paint & Fun
Ceramic Café between 1 and 10 February. Choose your favourite
ceramic piece, decorate it and it will then be glazed and fired for you.
Produce a distinctive gift with your own fair hands and astonish your Valentine
with your creative skills. All pieces will be ready to collect before Valentine’s
Day. The ceramic café will also be holding a Valentine’s painting
competition from 4pm to 8pm on 9 February, where all the family are welcome.
Parents can share the painting with their kids, with prizes available for
the three best pieces. Entry is 10€ for Adults, (5€ for non painters)
and 7€ for children.

Paint & Fun Ceramic Café
C/Garcia Morato, 8, El Ingenio, San Pedro.
Tel: 952 783 884

Surprise your loved one with your favourite photograph printed
on canvas. Simply choose an image you know they’ll love to hang on their
wall and Fotoria will do all the rest. A picture from your
wedding, family photo, your beloved pet, an image of you, whatever, or whoever,
you fancy can be put onto canvas and prices start from just 25€. Using
state-of-the-art technology and the finest materials, Fotoria guarantee great
results, plus it can all be organised online.

Fotoria
www.fotoria.eu

This year, forget sending the predictable bunch of red roses. An edible treat
is so much more pleasurable. The creative bunch at Kukis have
produced a valentine’s cookie collection that all really are good enough
to eat. Send a beautifully packaged box of heart-shaped kukis, decorated with
hot red, pretty pink or cute pastel coloured icing. Send a kiss to your Valentine
with the luscious lip shaped kukis, or make it really unique and have a personal
message or any photo you choose to top your kuki. Yum!

Kukis
Tel: 952 814 630
Email: pedidos@kuki-s.com

Why not add a touch of bling to your Valentine’s life with the range
of Bibi jewellery available at the uber-chic Elle Morgan Boutique. From cute
and girly to cool and chunky, this designer jewellery range has something for
everyone. Or, sprinkle some sparkle into their life with the stunning range
of hand crafted Bejwelled T-Shirts. No need to worry if ribbons and bows fill
you with dread, the staff at Elle Morgan Boutique will not only help you choose
the perfect gift, they’ll even make it look all nice and pretty while
you wait.

Elle Morgan Boutique
Laguna Village, Estepona
Tel: 647 869 831