Rio’s Best Shopping Districts:
Rio does not lack for shopping, but there are certain places that bring atmosphere as well as incredible finds. From outdoor to indoor, the following stores are a part of a local Zona Sul Brazilian woman’s shopping routine. Please note: the word ‘shopping’ in Brazil refers to a commercial shopping mall. So if you are given ‘retail therapy’ advice for the best ‘shopping’ in Rio, expect a modern, organized collection of stores, restaurants and often times, a movie theater. Our list covers both ‘shoppings’ and single boutique shops. Now let’s enter the world of luxury shopping in Rio de Janeiro! Ipanema Neighborhood (Visconde da Pirajá & side streets) This is ideal for that “I’m shopping at the beach” feeling. Starting off with a nice glass of bubbly, at one of the few spots that serve good Brazilian champagne, Quiteria is where you want to be for a refreshing glass and a light snack before strolling down the pavement. Specializing in prêt-à-porter, this neighborhood will leave you rubbing elbows with the city’s boho-luxury residents. While there are some international brands, Ipanema has many of the flagship stores for Brazil’s own hottest fashion designers. Fashion Mall Nestled between the Forest and São Conrado beach, sits one of our favorite indoor places to spend a Sunday afternoon. With fabulous restaurants covering the entire top floor, it is a pleasure to grab a glass… or a bottle of champagne… and then spend the next few hours exploring the large variety of luxury bohemian Brazilian shops. If you only have a short time in Rio, Fashion Mall is ideal because you can visit a handful of the best in a single afternoon. Village Mall For a collection of haute couture including Gucci and Jimmy Choo, Village Mall is the Saks Fifth Avenue or the Harrods of Brazil. With an emphasis on design and service, this luxury experience will satisfy any retail therapy craving. For a local flair, try the Rio location of Capim Santo. Serving up classic Brazilian dishes in a novel way, this place will satisfy the appetite you will have worked up all afternoon.
Brazilian Beauty Products
Natura Ekos
Natura stands out for its image as a sustainable and eco-friendly company. Their line is inspired by ancestral Brazilian traditions using ingredients derived from the country’s own biodiversity. Working together with 36 local communities, they create unique, rich textures and fragrances involved in daily Brazilian beauty rituals. You can feel good about your purchase, because they use 100% recycled packaging, pay fair wages and help local organizations such as opening new schools. And to top it all off, the company also uses ordinary women rather than supermodels in its ads.
A few years back, this French skincare brand started its own Brazilian line. Offering ingredients and scents from the Amazon to the Brazilian desert, L’Occitane does not stray from its reputation of using the highest quality ingredients. Even the packaging reflects the vibrancy and fabulousness of this tropical country. We have tried and tested them all, but our favorite scent will forever remain Olinda.
