About

WE SELECT WITH LOVE UNIQUE PIECES

L’Arca Barcelona is the joint project of two sisters who, from a vintage point of view, claim the concept of sustainability. Since 1980, we have been selecting with love unique and ethereal pieces in a singular space.

We merge the tradition of vintage and antique lace with current fashion trends. We gather original vintage pieces and elaborate unique pieces made with antique materials or inspired by vintage. First vintage store that opened in Barcelona 40 years ago, since then we SELL authentic vintage fashion and quality replicas that we select so that they arrive in perfect conditions to your hands. We specialize in dresses from the 20’s and 30’s, antique lace kimonos and antique Manila shawls.

We have accessories such as headdresses, handbags and vintage jewelry for romantic brides, elegant guests and lovers of unique pieces. We buy antique and vintage clothing and have an expert appraisal service. If you want to sell, ideally you should make an appointment with us.

Carmina Pairet, marketing

“I am passionate about antique lace and textile history. I’m in charge of brand management, sourcing vintage and antique pieces.”

Nina Balmes, creative director

“I am in charge of the design of bridal collections, and the creation of unique pieces. My goal is to bring to your hands pieces made with patience and savoir-faire in our atelier.”

Our story

We have created an exclusive workshop for the restoration and creation of “one-of-a-kind” pieces, pieces made from antique fabrics that we recycle with a modern look.

Collectors, set designers and textile lovers will find in l’Arca a careful selection of antique clothing from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Films such as Vicki Cristina Barcelona”, Titanic and period series have turned to our archives for inspiration.

Our shop

Our store in the heart of the Gothic Quarter has been open for 50 years. It is decorated with original furniture that recreates an old boudoir.

It has been selected as one of the 30 best experiences in Barcelona by the prestigious guide Soul of and awarded by Time out for its interior design.

What they’re saying about us

“A fabulous Alladin cave”

CondeNast traveller

“There are some pieces of clothes that can stand the test of time, and are full of history. These are the stars of the show at L’Arca”

Andrew Dramer Airbnb expert

“Step inside this enchanting vintage boutique for beautifully crafted apparel from the past, mostly sourced from local homes: 18th-century embroidered silk vests, elaborate silk kimonos and old-style earrings made by artisans in southern Spain”

Lonely Planet

“ Some items of clothing loaded with history survive the passing of time. These are the what stand out at l’Arca Barcelona”

Time Out

“One most largest collections of 19th-century lingerie and bridal fashion in Spain”

Intima group review

Let's talk

We want to know you

Come visit us and discover our store. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us.

”Fashions fade, style is eternal.”

—Yves Saint Laurent