As I prepared for our trip to southern Europe, I created an outline of fabric shops Iwanted to visit while there. Unfortunatley, I did not have the chance to visit this time, but left me with a huge reason to go back and do so.  Regardless, thought it would be nice to share the fabric shops that I think are a must see for their historic and beauty appeal :

BARCELONA:

1. Nunoya - Carrer de la Palla, 6 (in the Born neighborhood, near Placa Catalunya):  Nunoya specializes in Japanese silks and accessories of the like. I would like to get my hands on some silk covered buttons and broches.

2. Ribes i Casals – in Placa Urquinaona

3. Gratacos - in Passeig de Gracia and Diagonal St.

FLORENCE

1. Casa dei Tessuti – Via de’Pecori, 20-24r: Leave it to the Italians to make a shrine out of a fabric shop! The shop has a museum and guided tours, which I will be taking, thank you very much.

2. Antico Setifico – Via L. Bartolini, 4 (in the artisan square of San Frediano): I can’t even imagine what I will find at this gem. The place has been around since 1786!

ROME

1. Bassetti Tessuti - Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 73:  The mothership of all fabric stores!! Heard of Armani, Valentino, Balenciaga, etc.? These folks shop here. Someday, I will buy material for a four-piece suit here (pant, jacket, skrt, dress). I loved that every local person knew exactly what I was talking about when I asked general questions about beautiful Rome. From our male taxi driver to this very chic woman who allowed me to take of photo of her….check out those shoes!!!