Hot Handbags
As winter approaches, this Jalapeño handbag, by Nicaraguan luxury accessories brand Haydee Callejas, is just the job to keep your personal fire going as you walk the streets of London. In the words of Lucia Martinez Argüello who hand painted them: “the chilli is associated with strong erotic connotations and intense reactions that provoke powerful feelings in the north and south poles of the body, causing both involuntary tears upon consumption and a rise in body temperature.” Er, say no more. The brand, which fuses artwork with fine leathers and precious skins, launches its distinctive and rare pieces in London this month. www.haydeecallejas.com
Fashion Jewel
The wonderful dresses from the Quartz Collection by Panamanian designer Teresita Orillac were the talk of the summer. Inspired by the gem stones of the middle East and the glamour of Dubai, the gorgeous cuts in purples, blues and yellows turned heads, whether in Wimbledon’s Royal box or at The LUKAS Awards. She may not be a household name just yet, but Teresita’s fashion journey has taken her from Panama, where at the age of 16 she launched a pre-teen fashion boutique MiniDivas, to London, where she launched her Quartz collection in August, via Miami, New York and Dubai. Watch this space. www.teresitaorillac.com
London’s Mystery Brazilian
Standing out form the crowd is a new Brazilian beer brand Londrina, which was was launched at the Taste of London 2018 to great acclaim. Apparently brewed by a mysterious Brazilian lady in London, renowned for her style and sophistication, and with a penchant for experimenting with new flavours and sensations, “to discover and have fun” in her own words. This Gold Passion is a fusion of artisan brewing and a hint of Brazilian passion fruit. Surely worth a try no? Available at www.gayafoods.co.uk
Brazilian Beauty
We are fans of this Enriched with Amazonian Murumuru butter. Known for its restorative and nourishing benefits, Ekos Murumuru hair products repair dry or damaged hair, while providing softness and shine. Native from Amazonia, the Murumuru palm tree has a trunk full of thorns that preserves its fruit from wild harvest. The communities have to wait until the fruits are ripe and fall down the floor to pick them. Their rich pulp is a food for the wildlife of the forest and their seeds give yellow butter with extraordinary regenerating properties for hair. www.naturabrasil.fr
