Spain’s story is not defined by gastronomy alone. Across fashion, design and architecture, its attention to materials, craft and cultural memory is shaping a visual language that feels both contemporary and distinctly Spanish. That emphasis on quality is helping its products compete with established international names across these sectors.
Loewe is one of the country’s most recognisable fashion houses, bringing together leather craftsmanship, heritage and modern design. Its cultural reach was on display during Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime performance in 2023, when she wore a custom scarlet Loewe jumpsuit inspired by flight gear, complete with a sculpted leather corset.
Zara operates in a different segment, but its influence is no less significant. Its parent company, Inditex, reported €38.6 billion in sales in 2024, underscoring its global scale. Recent cultural moments have extended that visibility, including looks created for Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl appearance this year.
Spain’s creative output is not limited to the runway. At the recent If Design Awards, 46 Spanish companies and 27 design studios were recognised across categories spanning products, spaces, systems and infrastructure.
The country’s expertise is also visible in major projects abroad. Santiago Calatrava’s Mons railway station in Belgium remains a high-profile example of Spanish architectural presence, while infrastructure group Ferrovial was a long-term shareholder in London’s Heathrow Airport. Other firms have contributed to complex transport projects such as Saudi Arabia’s Mecca-Medina high-speed railway and the Marmaray rail link beneath Istanbul’s Bosphorus strait.
SPAIN’S SOFT POWER TAKES SHAPE