You can leave Rio. Rio never really leaves you.
Bringing the Carioca collection to Rio felt like the most natural thing to do. It’s the city where I grew up, and a place that continues to influence my sense of style, creativity and way of life. There’s an ease to Rio, a confidence and an energy that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Growing up between my father’s leather workshop, the beaches and the vibrant streets of the city shaped so much of who I am and what Uma and Leopold represents today. Rio has always had its own approach to style — effortless, sensual and full of personality.
Shooting with Dois Irmãos as our backdrop was a celebration of my Brazilian roots and everything I love about this city. Here are some of my favourite spots from the shoot, and the places I’d send you to first.
Lara
Market mornings in Rio. Tropical fruit, fresh flowers and colour everywhere.
1. Start the day on the sand
Wear: the Melissa Midi Dress, light blush cotton for long, hot mornings.
In Rio the beach is not a holiday, it is daily life. Go early, before the sun gets strong, when locals are running along the shore and playing futevôlei. Rent a chair and an umbrella from a barraca, order a cold coconut straight from the cart, and stay as long as you like. Every stretch of Ipanema has its own crowd, so ask a local which posto is theirs.
2. Walk the calçadão
Wear: the Alya Strapless Maxi Dress, with cut-out embroidery that moves when you walk.
The black and white stone promenade along the beaches is one of the most recognisable sights in the city. Walk it from Copacabana to Ipanema in the late afternoon, stop at a kiosk for a cold drink, and watch Rio pass by: surfers, dog walkers, families and grandmothers in their best beach clothes.
3. Watch the sunset at Arpoador
Wear: the Stellar Twist Maxi Dress, soft stretch jersey that goes from the rocks to dinner.
Head to Arpoador for sunset, with views across the ocean to Dois Irmãos. One of the best spots in Rio to watch the day end.
4. Do nothing, the Carioca way
Wear: the Sasha Top and Sasha Pants, a fluid satin set that feels cool against the skin.
Cariocas are experts at the long afternoon. Lunch at a boteco turns into petiscos, a caipirinha turns into two, and suddenly it is golden hour. Do not over-plan your days in Rio. The best moments usually happen when you sit down and let the city come to you.
5. Find the palms at Jardim Botânico
Wear: the Sophia Shirt and Sophia Shorts, an easy cotton set for warm mornings.
When the beach gets too hot, go green. The botanical garden is cool and quiet, with its famous avenue of imperial palms, orchids and the Corcovado watching from above. Go in the morning and finish with lunch in the neighbourhood.
6. Get lost in Santa Teresa
Up on the hill, Santa Teresa feels like a different city: cobbled streets, old mansions, the little yellow tram and artists' studios with their doors open. It is the place that reminds me most of growing up around makers. Wander, stop at the small galleries and craft shops, and watch the city lights come on from one of the bars at the top.
7. End the night with samba at Pedra do Sal
On Monday nights, musicians gather around a table at Pedra do Sal, in the old port area, and play samba de roda on the street. The crowd sings every word. It is simple, joyful and very Rio, the perfect way to end your trip.
Rio de Janeiro travel questions
What does Carioca mean?
Carioca is the word for a person from Rio de Janeiro. It also describes the Rio way of life: relaxed, social and lived outdoors, close to the beach.
What should I wear in Rio de Janeiro?
Light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and viscose. A loose dress or a matching set goes from the beach to lunch, and a fluid maxi dress works for sunset and dinner. Flat sandals are best for the stone promenades.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
Summer, from December to March, is hot and lively. April to June and September to November are calmer and still warm enough for the beach.
Made in Bali, inspired by the city where I grew up.