Rua Augusta might be at the heart of one of the most upmarket neighbourhoods in town, but it still manages to keep an alternative edge to its style. Start at the top on Avenida Paulista and head down the hill towards Rua Oscar Freire. Or, for even edgier style, cross Avenida Paulista for a wander down Baixo Augusta, towards the city centre.
Top shops
Ducha
Rua Augusta 2725, 3086 3226, duchacosmeticos.com.br
Children will love Ducha’s sponges shaped like hamburgers or cakes, while for those who take hygiene a bit more seriously, the store has a good range of soaps, shower gels and exfoliators. Read more on Ducha
El Cabriton
Rua Augusta 2008, 3081 6130, elcabriton.com
Intelligence and rough humour rule on the ace T-shirts here. Don’t miss Projeto 54, a deck of cards in which each of the 54 cards is made by a different artist.
Endossa
Rua Augusta 1360, endossa.com
This collaborative store rents space to anyone with something to sell. Original clothes, T-shirts, accessories, stationery and handmade gifts are all on offer here.
Galeria Ouro Fino
Rua Augusta 2690, galeriaourofino.com.br
The prices fit at the tattoo studios, record stores and hairdressers gathered in this classic galeria. Look out for accessories and rock’n’roll clothes at Laundry, and vintage gear at Santa do Cabaré. Read more on Galeria Ouro Fino
Plas
Rua Augusta 724, 3257 9919, plas.com.br
French tailor Robert Plas’s store has berets, hats, ties and suits.
Pitstop
Suplicy
Alameda Lorena 1430, 3083 0666, suplicycafes.com.br
Fresh roasted beans for serious java lovers, just one block from Rua Augusta. Read more on Suplicy
