The Best Fashion Boutiques In Rio De Janeiro

Among the iconic landmarks, stunning coastline and bustling metropolis, there are a handful of unique fashion boutiques that showcase the extraordinary talent of Rio de Janeiro’s designers. Here are some of the city’s best fashion boutiques to check out during your visit.

Isabela Capeto

Soft brown leather sofas occupy the breezy space of Isabela Capeto’s store in Jardim Botanico. The designer is renowned for her unique handwork that seamlessly combines natural fabrics with intricate embroidery and personalised dying techniques to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Her range echoes the vibrant colors and tropical patterns of the contemporary bohemian scene in Rio.

Isabela Capeto, R. Alberto Ribeiro, 17 – Horto, Rio de Janeiro +55 (21) 2537 3331

http://instagram.com/p/BGraHUHtc91/?taken-at=266998192

Glorinha Paranagua

It’s the clutch bag from Glorinha Paranagua that has thrust this designer into the spotlight. Glorinha has lived in several countries around the world, and her global experience has inspired the international and youthful edge in her work. Using exclusively Brazilian materials, her much sought-after bags make a striking visual impact. http://instagram.com/p/BUhv8HAjt6r/?taken-by=glorinhaparanagua

Farm

Store

Farm is a truly Carioca (anything that is born or made in Rio) brand. The fashion label’s designers are from Rio and their designs are defined by vibrant colors, bohemian-chic style and tropical patterns, reflecting the city’s exotic and carefree appeal. A popular brand among the youthful, upper-class population, Farm’s clothes have effortlessly glided into the beach and evening glam market. They also promote sustainability and good environmental practices in Rio, such as giving away free clothes to those who spend half an hour cleaning the beaches.

Totem

Totem sells a range of clothes just for women that is inspired by the surrounding city. The modern loungewear line includes pieces such as wide-legged trousers, draping skirts, flowing dresses and loose tank tops in subtle prints and pleasing bright colors. The range blends sophistication and elegance with a carefree casual style, conjuring images of sparkling blue swimming pools in glamorous resorts.

Totem, Av. Afrânio de Melo Franco, 290 – Leblon, Rio de Janeiro +55 (21) 2512 7818

http://instagram.com/p/BVfd2jjnedp/?taken-by=totemnet

Bazis

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A new addition to Shopping Rio Sul’s already impressive collection of wonderfully diverse stores, Bazis has a range of clothes for women that seem to draw from the hippie and bohemian spirit of Rio de Janeiro. The clothes are youthful, flirty and fun, combining a subtle mix of neutral colors with intricate patterns. Highlights in the store include bodysuits, high-waisted shorts and playful jumpsuits. There is also a store in Ipanema.

Animale

Animale sits in the high end of the boutique market, where fashion comes with a hefty price tag. Yet Animale brings a range of edgy fashion pieces that blend catwalk-chic with everyday style, making it worth the sometimes four-figure price tag for those with deeper pockets. Perfect for a glam evening out, its quirky pieces include trendy jeans, body-hugging dresses and jackets to die for. The stores themselves make a wonderful shopping experience with low-lighting, modern music, a waft of fresh perfume and attentive staff.

Animale, Praia de Botafogo, 400 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro +55 (21) 3172 4332

http://instagram.com/p/BUnSue4B73v/?taken-by=animalebrasil

Eclectic

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Eclectic opened its first store in 1992 in Ipanema and remains one of the city’s most loved fashion brands. The style borders on conservative with loose fitting shorts, long skirts and floaty dresses, but with a contemporary edge that makes the brand irresistibly cool. The pieces blend neutral colors with subtle bright tones to keep a sophisticated, delicate look ideal for a tropical brunch or an elegant date night.

About the author

Sarah Brown

Sarah is a British freelance journalist and writer based in Rio de Janeiro. Her favourite travel experiences so far include swimming with whale sharks in Mexico, trekking through Rio's urban forest and enjoying the city life in Madrid. Find her on Instagram @sbgrio