Shop 'til you Drop.

Sure it may seem silly and crazy to consider shopping a leisure activity but with the abundance of shops and wide variety of styles and fashion filling the streets in Barcelona it definitely has become a part of my weekly routine. I had never noticed this before moving to Spain for the last four months however, in American society sure there are those individuals who go completely on their own path and proudly represent their very own style but not very commonly. American attire is judged and labeled by a symbol indicating the brand of that piece of apparel and all the girls and guys of the same age groups or statuses are striving for the same looks. Here, each outfit and every opportunity is a way to express themselves to the best of their ability and the brand on your back means close to nothing. Not to say that Spanish individuals don't appreciate a high quality brand but a designer brand isn't necessary to fit in or prove your sense of style. I love strolling through the streets of Barcelona seeing what is being worn that season as everyone has their own flair and everyone always seems conscientious of their attire and how they are representing themselves as America is typically a lot more casual. From studying outfits and attire on the "runways" that are the streets of Barcelona I am lured into the stores with the hopes of catching onto these Euro chic styles and being able to put myself together in a similar fashion. Every pair of wedges or flowery tops for spring seem to call my name as I make my way to the market or to class and I find myself wandering in to take a quick look. The whole shopping experience here is so casual and effortless lacking the drama and intensity of looking for a parking spot in a crowded shopping mall parking lot or spending the day inside of the same stuffy mall. I think it's safe to say that I have picked up this habit or hobby whichever you prefer to call it of picking up a few new pieces from time to time to add to my wardrobe and I attribute it all to the ever-changing fashion current in the city of Barcelona. I wouldn't change it for the world and will miss this self-named current and darting in from shop to shop between classes on sunny days as it has become a favorite activity of mine.