080 Barcelona Fashion kicks off with emphasis on diversity of bodies, sizes and genders

The 31st edition of Catalonia's leading fashion event, 080 Barcelona Fashion, got underway on Tuesday, with a focus on diversity of bodies, sizes and genders. 

Taking place in the beautiful surroundings of Sant Pau, one of Europe's foremost art nouveau sites, 080 Barcelona Fashion will feature 25 designers and brands from May 2 to 5, including Custo Barcelona, Compte Spain, Rita Row, Escorpion, The Artelier and Victor von Schwars. 

One of the catwalk events – organized together with the Catalan Institute for Women – will be from Free Form Style, an inclusive brand.  

Speaking at the launch, Catalan president Pere Aragonès said the event "shows that we have tons of creativity and talent in our country."

Government "committed to 080 and to fashion" 

"080 puts the fashion industry in Catalonia in the spotlight, with established brands and designers but also emerging talents looking for their chance," Aragonès said. 

"The government is committed to 080, to fashion made in Catalonia and to all the professionals who make it possible," he continued. 

"Last year there was a clear commitment on reusing clothes and materials and this year it is about diversity and inclusion. Creativity is for everyone, for all genders and for all bodies." 

Aragonès made a short visit to the backstage area of the event and attended the first fashion show of the week, from Simorra, created in 1978 by Javier Simorra. 

The opening day of 080 Barcelona Fashion also featured collections from The Artelier, Laretta, Bielo-Oscarleon and Escorpion. 

Media interest 

Also present at the event on Tuesday was business minister Roger Torrent. "080 has broken its record for press attendance, with more than 30 media accreditations issued, including around 50 for international press," he said.  

The event is southern Europe's "great platform" for fashion, according to the minister. 

"It's a great showcase for the creativity, talent and ideas that emerge in Catalonia," he added 

Catalonia's fashion industry is made up of 15,000 companies and nearly 80,000 staff members, Torrent said, adding: "Aside from internationalization and talent, values also stand out. The sector is making a major effort to adapt to the 21st century and open fashion to the diversity of bodies, sizes and genders."