Barcelonines
By Michael Mueller
In a Catalan tradition dating to the 18th century, “La Pubilla” is the family’s eldest daughter as well as its heir. The pubilles were celebrated in town festivities in which they dressed in a rather somber outfit with a black velvet bodice, lace shawl, black apron, petticoat and crocheted cap and mitts, a mix of elements that represented both the wealth and poverty of the times.
Venezuelan designer Gaudys honors this rich tradition with her line of handcrafted rag dolls, available at €79 each. At once elegant and endearing, La Pubilla and her compatriots Andalucina (in Southern Spanish dress) and La Morenita (a black doll) have become many a girl’s best friend. The shop sells the outfits in kids’ sizes too, so your eldest can dress just like her doll.