I’m A Mexican Fashion Editor, And These Are The Shops In Mexico City I’d Never Skip
Sofia Piza
Bookmark for your next trip to fashion’s latest emerging capital.
Introduction
As a fashion editor, my job is quite literally to keep my finger on the pulse of the fashion scene, particularly when it comes to finding the best places to shop that go beyond the status quo; and being totally biased, I can confirm Mexico City’s fashion scene is bustling with talent.
From emerging designers to vintage stores, the city is home to a wealth of independent brands, cementing its position as one of the region’s leading fashion hubs. And as I’m not one for gatekeeping, I’ve rounded up my top five must-visit boutiques to save for your next visit.
Founded by a French duo based in Mexico City, Audette is an accessories label specialising in structural handbags. Its unique designs could very well be works of art, and New York’s MoMA seems to agree, currently stocking them in its Design Store.
Fusing masculine and feminine design elements to create contemporary shapes, each bag is made from Italian leather and cactus-based fabrics. The brand operates on a limited-production model to ensure quality and responsible practices. Plus, it’s based in Mexico City’s trendy Roma Norte neighbourhood, making it an easy stop to pair with the area’s popular boutiques and restaurants.
Frontera 105, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX
If you, like me, tend to favour a concept store, then Cardon is the ultimate option. Serving as a mecca for all things Latin American design, it stocks high-end, locally sourced clothing from brands across the region. Think sculptural jewellery, outré silhouettes seamlessly merging modern designs with cultural roots, and cool-girl-coded staples in the form of oversized sunglasses and crochet berets. Operating across two locations, there’s guaranteed to be plenty of lust-worthy items, so both are worth adding to your itinerary.
La Condesa – Atlixco 71 – CDMX
La Roma – Colima 129 – CDMX
Quickly becoming a celebrity favourite, seen on FKA Twigs, Lena Dunham, and Cardi B, footwear brand Cruda was born as a manifesto for being unapologetically yourself. Upholding traditional artisanal shoemaking techniques in a bid to educate newer generations, it prioritises upcycled materials to craft its bold designs. With its Roma Norte boutique doubling as its studio, you can quite literally shop while your shoes are being made in front of you, often allowing you to personalise your pair in-store. I’m yet to visit the store IRL, but I can confirm I’m already mentally styling their Ana style for the colder months.
Tabasco 177 Roma Norte, Mexico City, Mexico 06700
Sandra Weil
One of Mexico’s key fashion players, Sandra Weil is known for its modern designs anchored in bold prints and exquisite beading, creating striking looks without compromising on wearability. Now recognised globally, with three retail spaces and international stockists, it’s a brand I always turn to for inspiration when styling my most maximalist pieces.
Prioritising sustainable practices from the outset, Sandra Weil also keeps its ethical practices at the heart of its design, production, and day-to-day operations. It operates on an on-demand model, ethical sourcing and is a committed equal opportunity employer. With an edit of ready-to-wear staples and gowns, consider it a must-visit if you’re looking to invest in pieces that will become cherished season after season.
Av. Horacio 907, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11550
Looking to source curated vintage finds? Armario Comunal is always top of mind for chic finds. Stocking luxury and budget-friendly options, I can’t begin to count how many hours I’ve spent there. With a community-driven mission, it aims to change how people shop by giving discarded pieces a new life.
Every item is personally filtered by its founders, Ximena Bosch and Lucia Iturbide, who look for quality garments that reflect what their customers are actually seeking. The result? A seamless shopping experience, especially for those who aren’t fond of the hunt.
Av Michoacán 75, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06100
Although this fragrance brand only carries six scents, it’s anything but ordinary. Formulating its own scents, Xinú draws inspiration from Latin America and its botanical richness. With boutiques designed to appeal to all senses, if you’re looking to visit one location in Mexico City, you have to go to its Juárez boutique.
Serving as the ultimate urban oasis, it brings calmness to Mexico City’s bustling streets. It creates a journey where visitors can experience the fragrances, stopping at individual stations that demonstrate how each behaves on skin and fabric. Choosing a favourite is nearly impossible, but Aguamadera is slowly but surely becoming my go-to everyday scent.
Marsella #68, Juárez, 06600
Share This Story
Related Posts
