Favela Aesthetics: From the periphery to global fashion reference

Brazilian culture is a dazzling celebration of life, bringing together music, dance, and vibrant community spirit. At the heart of this energy lies the favela aesthetic — unexpected beauty blossoming in urban neighbourhoods, where artists and designers blend influences their heritage with local and contemporary flair. This unique style, full of bold colours and eclectic designs, is shaping the future of fashion and art in exciting ways. From streetwear that tells a story to art that speaks of resilience, the fresh and dynamic impact of favela aesthetics in today’s fashion scene is evident.

by Hayala Campos. Photos by Emy Barbosa

Growing up in Queimados, a small community in Rio de Janeiro, my surroundings were vibrant with colourful murals and the rhythms of samba and funk, yet art and fashion weren't part of my early experiences. As I navigated the fashion world at London College of Fashion, I realised that, although I often felt different to my classmates, my Brazilian roots offered a unique perspective. Drawing inspiration from the street culture and urban art where I grew up, this distinctive aesthetic enriched by bold colours and intricate patterns would come to infuse my work as a fashion communicator and storyteller in the industry.

But I’m not the only one influenced by baile funk beats, bold streetwear and Brazili’s DIY creativity. On global catwalks and stages, ‘favela chic’ has already made its appearance, as in Rosalía’s funk-infused showcase at the Louis Vuitton Fall-Winter 2023 show in Paris, Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime show incorporating funk beats and Beyoncé’s dynamic passinho dance during her performance at Rock in Rio. These moments illustrate how favela aesthetics are moving from the margins to the mainstream, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary style.

In the UK, two independent brands Lodge Brava and FLAMENCO, founded by Brazilian creatives based in London, stand out. FLAMENCO blends high fashion and street style using a range of craftsmanship techniques that result in elegant, environmentally friendly and innovative designs. Meanwhile, Lodge Brava offer fresh perspectives and flair that celebrate resilience and innovation by blending modern sport elements and raw style influences from marginalised communities.

Meanwhile, back in Brazil, Massati a São Paulo–based label founded by artist Matheus Santos, merges fashion, music, and emotional storytelling. Handmade in small batches, Massati’s pieces express freedom, identity, and self-esteem while promoting equality and authenticity. The list goes on with Dendezeiro, Piet, Az Maria’s and Isa Silva catapulting these dynamic influences into the global fashion and creative industries.

The journey of Brazilian creatives, whether living abroad or at home, is a celebration of roots, identity and cultural representation in art and fashion. Brazilian aesthetics within the fashion industry invites everyone to reflect on their own cultural narratives through their artistic choices. By supporting diverse voices, curators and consumers can help cultivate a vibrant fashion industry that champions inclusivity and innovation. That way we can inspire a deeper appreciation for cultural stories and enrich the fashion landscape.