For my 400th review I decided to go with the best international find I've made in my travels. I was happy when I found fantastic Spanish-made shoes at El Corte Inglés...but that's a department store you'll find spread across Europe. My review is about the real coup, which occurred at a boutique that makes a "true shopper" like me happy as soon as they walk in the door. So many things you want to buy, and all at reasonably affordable prices. You interested? Here's my story... I don't care whether you call it a "man bag," a "euro bag," or whatever...it's my iPad bag and it's cool as shxt, Because no matter where I go now that I'm back here in California - at home in Oakland, over in SF or down in LA - my "bag" is always full-on, jamming, Barcelona-style funky. How did a brotha like me acquire such extreme hipness to hang from my shoulder? Biba, baby!
This Biba came to the nabe in 2011, I believe. Fortunately, in Born, fashion coexists with bars and fantastic dining in an exquisite synergy. As fashion goes, Biba is like those regular, favorite spots you have...places you frequent because you always revel in the delights they offer. Stylish fashion and accessories for women, with a decent selection for men and a few nice things for home. In addition to the reasonably priced Biba bags that are so "del moda," they carry local lines like Slang, as well as a few far flung ones, including Argentina's La Martina.
And the service is fantastic. Mariana, Mariana, Mariana! Go see her. She gave us the greatest service. What a sweetheart. She's a gifted photographer and Yelper, by the way, check out her Barcelona reviews for hip, local perspective!
The lighting and furniture at Biba were obviously arranged by a decorator with a great eye for detail. All in all, a beyond-the-ordinary shopping experience that was almost as fun as hanging out at a cafe or bistro with friends. Seriously, my then girlfriend and I went twice on our trip and we weren't even in the city for a week. Viva Biba! read more