Portugal has become one of those destinations you always feel like returning to. It’s close, it has beautiful cities, charming hotels, endless beaches and a way of understanding summer that is very easy to copy. But, in addition, in recent years Portuguese women have put the country’s style in the spotlight with original garments, fun mixes and pieces with lots of prints.
Therefore, if you travel to Lisbon, Porto or Comporta, it’s worth looking beyond the usual shops and scouting some local brands before packing your suitcase. Some focus on impeccable basics, others on swimwear fashion, others on footwear made in Portugal and others on reviving traditional techniques with a contemporary twist. These are the Portuguese brands you should keep on your radar if you’re traveling to the neighboring country.
Béhen, the Portuguese brand that turns craftsmanship into special fashion
One of the most interesting brands of the new Portuguese design is Béhen. Founded by Joana Duarte, the brand has managed to attract attention for its way of reviving antique textiles, traditional embroidery and artisanal techniques to transform them into contemporary garments.
White linen lace dress by Béhen.
Their blouses, dresses and jackets have something of a one-of-a-kind piece: intense colors, fabrics with a history, handmade details and an aesthetic that does not follow the trend literally. These are the garments that manage to stand out precisely because they do not resemble the ones you find in every store.
TOINO ABEL, the handmade bags that Portuguese women love
If there is a brand that sums up Portuguese craftsmanship brought to the present, it is TOINO ABEL. The brand was born with the aim of reviving the basket-weaving tradition of the Alcobaça region, transforming a centuries-old artisanal technique into contemporary bags and accessories.
Capazo natural Campo de Toino Abel.
Their pieces are handmade using natural fibers and are distinguished by combining the traditional structure of Portuguese baskets with leather details and refined finishes. They are bags that work just as well on the beach, at a seaside lunch, or on a city break. The best part is that they strike that difficult balance between trend and timelessness. They are recognizable, but not over the top; special, yet easy to pair.
Latitid, the swimwear brand you should know
Portugal has long stood out for the quality of its textile industry, and Latitid is one of the best proofs of that. The brand has specialized in bikinis, swimsuits and beachwear with a clean, elegant and very flattering aesthetic.
Bañador La Spiagga de Latitid.
Their designs avoid excess and lean toward carefully curated prints, bright colors and comfortable patterns. They are pieces designed to last more than one summer and that fit perfectly with the relaxed style that characterizes the Portuguese coast.
Näz, simple and sustainable basics made in Portugal
For those seeking simple, comfortable and easy-to-match garments, Näz is one of the Portuguese brands worth keeping on your radar. Its offering focuses on sustainable women’s fashion, with high-quality pieces designed to build a functional wardrobe without relying on passing trends.
T-shirts, trousers, dresses, knitwear and well-cut basics form part of a collection that fits very well with that relaxed Portuguese style, natural and practical. It is a good option if you’re looking for a useful purchase during the trip: a garment you can wear in Lisbon, take along through the summer and reuse season after season.
Burel Factory, when tradition becomes design
It isn’t just a fashion brand. Burel Factory is also a way to discover one of Portugal’s most interesting textile traditions. The company works with burel, a traditional wool from the Serra da Estrela that for centuries was used by mountain shepherds.
Maxi tote bicolor de Burel.
Today that same fabric is transformed into bags, garments, accessories and contemporary design objects. It is a must-stop for those who enjoy finding pieces with a history behind them and who value local craftsmanship.
Luís Onofre, Portuguese shoes with international prestige
Mocasins with a cut-out in brown by Luís Onofre.
Portugal is one of the major footwear producers in Europe and Luís Onofre perfectly represents that know-how. The brand specializes in shoes and luxury accessories made in Portugal. Sandals, pumps, bags and sophisticated designs form part of an elegant offering that has won over both local and international audiences.
