Lisbon for the Fashionista

While the catwalks of Lisbon may not be as legendary as those of Paris, Milan, or London, Lisbon has a thriving fashion scene that is garnering ever-more international attention. Fashion-savvy visitors notice the comfortable but bold street style, the attention to detail and craftsmanship in the work of local designers, and the high quality and enduring elegance of products in the boutiques and shops of this fascinating city.

Lisbon itself has a style that seems to transcend time, with the colorful buildings and brightly patterned tiles of the facades, classic forms and details of architecture and design, matched with a warm, casual lifestyle that focuses on having fun and enjoying the moment. These impulses and traditions inform and reflect Lisbon fashion, and the city has something to offer for every style.

Lisbon street style

Street fashion in Lisbon is influenced by the warm weather and relaxed lifestyle of the city, and has been featured in publications from the New York Times to Vogue magazine. Look for classic staples like denim, khaki, and black contrasted with bright colors, bold prints, and feminine lines.

Check out local fashion bloggers like @apipocamaisdoce, @umblogfashion, and @lifurtado5 on instagram for insight and inspiration, fashion and shopping tips, as well as stunning images of Portugal that will inspire your travels.

Fashion events

Hit up fashion week. ModaLisboa is held in spring and fall, just after Paris fashion week, and the 50th edition is coming up quickly in March 2018. This year’s theme is BOUNDLESS, and will take on nostalgia both for the past, and for an as-yet-unknown future, about breaking rules and making new models, recognizing a different intensity of time, exploring a fashion without restriction or reserve. This edition features collections from groundbreaking Portuguese designers including David Ferreira, Luis Carvalho (GQ’s 2016 fashion designer of the year), and Moda Lisboa legend Nuno Gama. And Moda Lisboa also features the Sangue Novo (New Blood) showcase, recognizing promising young talent.

Check out the design showcase. The Lisboa Design Show returns in October, and features Portuguese furniture and interior design, as well as fashion and visual design. Since 1998, this event has featured exhibitions and showcases on current trends and timeless themes, as well as talks, panels, and workshops with Portugal’s leading designers. 2017’s fashion talks included topics like digital trends, plus sized fashion, and fashion and social causes.

Do some shopping

Stroll the Avenida da Liberdade. This broad, tree-lined street is Lisbon’s answer to the Champs-Elysees. It extends gently uphill from the stunning Rossio train station, and is lined with posh boutiques and trendy cafes. If you are looking for international fashion brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, Armani, or Cartier, you will find them on the Avenida. Make sure to hit up local boutiques Embassy, for hard-to-find luxury fragrances, and Fashion Clinic, for a little of everything, and relax between shops with cocktails at cafes overlooking parks, fountains, and monuments.

Sapataria do Carmo. Opened in 1904, this shoe store features handcrafted, locally made shoes, customized for your feet. With timeless designs, bold style, and exceptional craftsmanship, these shoes will make a fashion statement anywhere in the world.

Tous. The original shop is known as the Ourivesaria Aliança, but the online store and other city locations are known as Tous. Opened in 1909, the shop on Rua Garrett is one of the most beautiful commercial spaces in the city, with a breathtaking baroque interior. Specializing in jewelry, watches, bags, and accessories, simply visiting this store is an experience not to be missed.

Lisbon represents a rare opportunity to explore new design experiences and try unconventional styles, simply stock up on your favorite fashions, or score some unique accessories and accent pieces. With a fantastic mix of famous brands, emerging talent, and classic craftsmanship, Lisbon is an unforgettable fashion destination.