Desigual
Complete VAT Refund Guide for Europe
Planning to shop at Desigual in Europe? This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to maximize your VAT refund savings, where to find Desigual stores across Europe, and insider tips to get the most money back on your purchases.
About Desigual
Founded in 1984 by Swiss-born Thomas Meyer in Barcelona, Desigual began with a denim jacket created from pieces of used pants—a patchwork concept that became the brand's DNA. The name came from Spanish film director Isabel Coixet. In 1986, Desigual opened its first store in Ibiza's harbor, featuring its original logo (a naked man and woman holding hands) designed by Peret. The brand officially opened its Barcelona headquarters in La Barceloneta neighborhood in 2012. In 2019, Desigual redefined its products with new materials, patterns, and designs to attract younger customers. Today, the brand operates 280+ standalone stores across 107 markets through 10 sales channels, generating €332 million revenue in fiscal 2024. The 2025 Spring/Summer collection showcased in Barcelona drew celebrities including Lila Moss, Paris Jackson, and Ester Expósito, with the new Desigual Studio line deeply rooted in Barcelona's creative spirit.
Signature Products & Prices
Graphic T-shirts & Tops
€35–€70
Colorful Dresses
€80–€150
Embroidered Denim
€90–€120
Statement Handbags
€60–€130
Swimwear & Bikinis
€50–€97
Why Shop Desigual in Europe?
Desigual is a Barcelona-born brand designed for European aesthetics with its headquarters in La Barceloneta. Shopping in Spain provides access to exclusive collections, earlier drops, and Barcelona-inspired designs before they reach international markets. Spain's zero VAT minimum with up to 15.7% refunds makes it THE best country globally for Desigual shopping—no minimum spend required.
Best Cities to Shop Desigual
Barcelona
Brand birthplace since 1984, La Barceloneta headquarters, exclusive Barcelona Studio line
Madrid
Multiple flagship locations, full seasonal collections
Why Shop Desigual with TravelMoney
Up to 100% VAT Refunds
Get significantly more money back compared to standard 12% refunds
2 Desigual Locations
Across 1 European cities
Instant Refunds
No waiting weeks for your money back
Digital Process
Upload receipts, scan at airport, done
Desigual Store Locations in Europe
Barcelona
Desigual Passeig de Gràcia
Passeig de Gràcia, 47, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours:
monday: 10:00 - 21:00
tuesday: 10:00 - 21:00
wednesday: 10:00 - 21:00
thursday: 10:00 - 21:00
friday: 10:00 - 21:00
saturday: 10:00 - 21:00
sunday: 11:00 - 20:00
Desigual Gothic Quarter
Carrer dels Boters, 4, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours:
monday: 10:00 - 21:00
tuesday: 10:00 - 21:00
wednesday: 10:00 - 21:00
thursday: 10:00 - 21:00
friday: 10:00 - 21:00
saturday: 10:00 - 21:00
sunday: 11:00 - 20:00
How Much Can You Save?
VAT Refund Examples
Purchase: €1,000 → Get back €120-150 (standard refund) or up to €180 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €5,000 → Get back €600-750 (standard refund) or up to €900 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €10,000 → Get back €1,200-1,500 (standard refund) or up to €1,800 (TravelMoney)
How to Get Your VAT Refund: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Before making a purchase
Request Custom Invoice
When checking out at Desigual, request the invoice to be made out to "Travel Money" with our Paris address. This is critical for maximizing your refund.
Step 2: When making a purchase
Pay in Local Currency
Always choose to pay in euros (€) instead of your home currency to avoid poor exchange rates and maximize savings.
Step 3: After shopping
Upload Invoice & Receipt
Immediately upload your Desigual invoice and receipt in the TravelMoney app. Don't wait until you get to the airport.
Step 4: When leaving the EU
Scan Barcode at Point of Departure
At the airport, port, or train station, scan the barcode on your TravelMoney app at customs. Bring your Desigual purchase in carry-on for potential inspection.
VAT Refund Essentials
Core Requirements
- Minimum Spend: No minimum in total purchase value
- Eligibility: Non-EU permanent residents, under 6-month stay, purchasing goods for personal use
- Time limits: 3 months to validate at point of departure + 6 months to claim refund
- VAT Rate: 21% standard rate (most luxury goods)
Pro Tips for Desigual Shoppers
- →Barcelona stores (Plaça del Pi 2, La Rambla 109, L'Illa Diagonal) carry exclusive designs not available elsewhere
- →Spain has NO VAT minimum—get up to 15.7% refunds on any Desigual purchase (best in Europe)
- →Spain uses fully digital DIVA refund system—scan barcode at airport exit, no paperwork hassle
- →Vibrant colors, bold prints, and unexpected combinations define every collection—embrace maximalism
- →Limited production runs guarantee exclusivity—each design made in few pieces per size
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get VAT refund on Desigual online purchases?
No. VAT refunds are only available for in-store purchases made in Europe. Online orders shipped internationally are already VAT-exempt.
Do I need to show my Desigual purchase at customs?
High-value items (typically over €1,000) may require physical inspection at customs. Keep your purchase in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
What if I'm connecting through a non-EU airport?
You must validate your VAT refund at your last EU point of departure, not your final destination. For example, if flying Paris → London → New York, validate in Paris.
How long does it take to get my refund?
With TravelMoney, refunds are processed instantly once validated at customs. Standard tax-free services can take 4-12 weeks.
For Shoppers
Get up to 100% VAT refunds on your Desigual shopping. Join the waitlist for instant refunds.
For Merchants
Partner with TravelMoney to offer instant VAT refunds and attract more international shoppers.