080 Barcelona Fashion celebrates Catalan style in new Port Vell venue

080 Barcelona Fashion, a Catalan government-run campaign that promotes the fashion sector in Catalonia, has opened its 37th edition, marking what organizers describe as a "new stage" as the runway moves for the first time to the Mirador del Port Vell, overlooking Barcelona's port. 

The event runs until Friday April 17, with 26 runaway shows bringing together emerging and established brands.  

The opening runway featured Catalan brand Escorpion, presenting a knitwear-driven collection with coats, jackets, sweaters, cardigans, and dresses in earthy tones, greens, and touches of red.

At the official launch, Catalan business minister Miquel Sàmper, underscored the economic weight of the fashion sector, which generates more than €17.5 billion in turnover, employs 73,660 people, and includes nearly 1,000 companies.  "Anyone who says fashion is a small thing has no idea," he said.

José Alberto Carbonell, president of the Port of Barcelona, said hosting the event at Port Vell reflects the port's role in the industry, stressing its contribution to the internationalisation of fashion brands through the movement of textile goods.

"We are a key infrastructure for the fashion sector; every year we move thousands of containers with clothing and textile products," he said. 

The move to Port Vell also marks the end of several editions held at the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau. 

Moisés Rodríguez, director of the Consortium for Trade, Craft, and Fashion of Catalonia, described the previous location as "iconic," while emphasizing that the new setting offers a unique runway "over the sea."

This year's lineup includes returning brands such as Catalan Custo Barcelona and Simorra, alongside newcomers like Spanish Adolfo Domínguez. Mexican designer Ricardo Seco joins the program in place of Luar, which withdrew.

The edition will close on Friday with emerging designers, including Eñaut and David Catalán.

Industry talks on styling, creative direction, and innovation in fashion are also part of the program.