Two years ago Madrid fashion week caused a media storm when it banned underweight models on the basis of their body mass index.

Organisers this year will be hoping to waif goodbye to that controversy and concentrate on fashion matters instead as one of the industry's most prestigious events kicks off on July 17th.

A glut of designers and celebrities will descend on the Spanish city's Juan Carlos Exhibition Centre for catwalk shows and glittering parties.

However, for a designer experience away from the crowds Calle Serrano in Salamanca offers upmarket shopping in the heart of the European capital.

For the best boutiques on this street try out Pedro del Hierro for luxurious one-off pieces or Hoss, which features glamorous eveningwear for young professional women.

Outlets of reliable Spanish export Zara can also be found dotted around the city; the chain is famous for bringing catwalk designs onto the street at great prices.