There are countless locations around the globe that house luxury brands, with most large shopping malls providing access to a multitude of high street names, but the actual shopping experience is pretty much standard across the board. For the real deal you need to travel to Milan, Paris, Cannes, Monte Carlo or Marbella where authenticity can be found right in the heart of the old town and in Puerto Banús.
The shopping spree begins in Marbella’s Old Town. Intertwining lanes overflowing with all manner of specialist shops, shoemakers, bakers, name brands, bed, bath and fashion boutiques that tail off from the centrally situated Orange Square in a treasure map layout. Descend further down to the shoreline, and you will come across market stalls and other tourist shops and restaurants that decorate the Paseo Marítimo, which is the marble walkway beginning at what is known as the Golden Mile. A little further west along the coast, Marbella town meets the high-end couture centre that is Puerto Banús.
Puerto Banús
It’s hard to believe that what was once a small fishing village has transformed into the A-lister status and shopping mecca of today. It’s quite a unique and different experience to most other places in the world.
Puerto Banús is a prime example of where you can enjoy the perfect evening experience. Ambient lighting outlining the avenues flanked with the most elaborate shop window displays on one side, and million-dollar yachts on the other. Bask in a leisurely pre-drinks stroll whilst glancing at the glistening shop windows and marveling at the stream of Lamborghinis and Bentleys trickling through the marina.
Amongst the world famous brands you can also discover endless unique boutiques, from the more highly priced offering carefully woven linen and lace, imported from Portugal and France, to street-smart affordable bedazzled Italian retro and Spanish urban style. Though if you are seeking that one-stop shop experience, there is no greater place than El Corte Inglés – Spanish for “the English Cut”.
The five-level department store, situated on the corner of Plaza Antonio Banderas is certainly Marbella’s answer to Harrods. Although the flagship megastore is located in Madrid the store has the most comprehensive collection of designer brands of any shop in Spain. Most importantly, there is a sit-in Starbucks. Because with all that shopping, you’re going to need a caffeine pick-me-up and a place to rest.
On a cozier scale, and right opposite the grand El Corte Inglés, just a short walk across the road leads you to Marina Banús Shopping Centre. This is more of a bite-sized experience, encapsulating some of the most popular Spanish brands such as Pull & Bear, Oysho and Zara.
For the ultimate high-end experience, however, it’s best to start on the front line of the port. Here are just some of the prime stores to look out for:
ELITE STORE
Founded in the late 80s, Elite Store is THE exclusivity hub of major-brands. Take your pick from hundreds of different designers including Giorgio Armani, Givenchy, Saint Laurent, Yeezy, Jimmy Choo, Dolce & Gabbana, Off-White, Coach, Kendall+Kylie, and so many more.
LOUIS VUITTON
Louis Vuitton is one of the first big impressions at the mouth of the first line avenue of Puerto Banús. This branch offers personalisation, fragrance fountains, hot stamping and click & collect.
GOMEZ & MOLINA
Gomez & Molina Joyeros is a family business dedicated to jewelry and watches. What began in 1969 with a small shop at the Hotel Meliá Don Pepe in Marbella, today has become one of the most distinguished firms in Marbella and the Costa del Sol. Found at the entrance to Puerto Banús with another outlet in Marbella’s Old Town, Gomez & Molina is an ambassador for the top international fine jewelry and watches, offering the most exclusive pieces to its clientele. Its brand spectrum of watches includes virtually everything from Hublot and Patek Philippe to Boucheron and Thomas Mercer.
ESCADA
Specialising in evening wear, their fragrances are as elegant as their glamour. Serious about sensuality, evening wear and plunging necklines, it’s selling point is the red-carpet look.
BURBERRY
Get the London look with the British iconic classic jackets, handbags and ties. For both men and women, Burberry is the perfect brand for the colder seasons, starring all the autumn colours.
HERMES
Showcasing the best lighting displays on the outside of the perfectly painted white European-style walls, it’s always surprising to find on the inside, how simplistic and serenely beautiful some of their silk scarves can be.
LACOSTE
French elite hallmark for athletes, and a standard go-to for golf enthusiasts, the little sewn crocodile has made its mark on the strip, and across the globe.
VERSACE
Golden Italian luxury is a winner amongst big ballers who love to show it. Many R&B superstars have had the place closed down for their appearance.
GUCCI
“Say what you wanna say, I’ve got expensive taste. You should buy it for me, bury me in Gucci.” – Qveen Herbi
CHRISTIAN DIOR
The couture of all couture, the famous makeup and accessories, and the variety of loungewear matched with the smartest of suits. Neighbouring Versace, they couldn’t be two more different trends.
BVLGARI
Enjoy a glass of champagne when you drop off your silver and gold to be expertly cleaned as you peruse some of the finest quality diamond cuts.
Dress up or dress-down, whatever your personal shopping preference or price range may be, the industry-leading brands offered in Puerto Banús are certainly worth a visit, if not just for the experience alone. In Marbella, there really is something for everyone, and if Louis Vuitton just isn’t your style, the chances are you will happen upon something else that is.
Happy shopping!