Funky fans for summertime by Kukuxumusu

Although fans are rather associated with Southern Spain, they used to be very popular all over Spain for many years until the advent of the air-conditioning. In the summertime, our grandmothers used to carry them in their bags and those fans were decorated with handpainted flowers and designs.

Fans are a great way to get some fresh air in the hotest months while we sip a drink sitting in a terrace. That is why many of us still use them, although we look for more contemporary designs. The basque firm Kukuxumusu produces fans which are fun, very casual and not expensive.  

C/Argenteria 69 by Santa Maria del Mar (El Born)
Metro Jaume I (Yellow line)

Flamenco shoes for girls

Red shoes with white dots and heels, which are typical of flamenco dancing, are available in small sizes and girls love them. Flamenco music and dance are typical from Andalucia, in Southern Spain, and although you can buy the shoes in Barcelona, they are not part of our everyday culture. That is why my 2,5 year old niece thinks of Minnie Mouse when she wears her shoes. When years ago I bought a pair for one of my Italian nieces, my sister told me that she could have sold a container full of shoes at her school.

The most ancient flamenco shop in Barcelona is owned by the daughter of a great former flamenco dancer whose name is Flora Albaicín. She still has a well known dance academy in Barcelona.

http://www.tiendaflamenco.com/
Canuda, 3 (not far from the Ramblas)
Metro: Catalunya (Green Line)