Discover Cartagena Fashion: Colombian Designers in the Global Spotlight
Did you catch how The White Lotus Season 3 showcased stunning pieces by Colombian designers? Cartagena’s fashion scene is making waves globally, and there’s never been a better time to explore it firsthand.
As April winds down, it’s time to plan that perfect summer escape. Picture this: a vibrant beach destination filled with immersive experiences, live music, rich culture, and connections with people from around the world. While Greece, Ibiza, or Thailand may tempt you—especially after HBO’s latest season—we at Cosmopolitours are championing a different kind of paradise: a Caribbean vacation in Cartagena, Colombia.
This vibrant city on Colombia’s eastern coast offers everything – sun, culture, cuisine, and yes—the best shopping in Cartagena for fashion lovers. We’ve designed the ultimate White Lotus-style getaway—minus the drama. Think gourmet dining, immersive cultural experiences, and boutique shopping where you’ll find the same outfits the White Lotus stars actually wore.
Luxury Colombian fashion featured in The White Lotus: Cast members styled in Johanna Ortiz, Waimari, and Agua by AGUA Bendita | Cosmopolitours
Yes, Colombian-made fashion was a breakout star in Season 3 of The White Lotus. Laurie stunned in a dress by Johanna Ortiz, one of Colombia’s most renowned designers. Kate and the effortlessly chic Piper styled elegant looks from Waimari, while our “almost French girl” Chloe, dazzled in a set by AGUA by Agua Bendita.
The presence of Colombian brands in the global spotlight, alongside luxury houses such as Valentino, Chanel, Loewe, Ulla Johnson, and others, is a recognition of the vision of these talented designers. Beyond prestige, it represents a celebration of female-led design, cultural pride, and storytelling through craftsmanship, nature, and heritage.
So why not immerse yourself in this world? Let’s take a journey to the land of Gabriel García Márquez, where magical realism meets real-life artistry—and where your next favorite outfit awaits.
Experience shopping in Cartagena’s colorful colonial streets, where vibrant city life unfolds beneath the iconic Cartagena Cathedral tower | Cosmopolitours
Cartagena Travel Itinerary: A Perfect 3-Day Escape Beyond Shopping
Wondering what else awaits beyond the boutiques? Let me paint the picture:
Day 1:
Arrive in Cartagena aboard a quick flight from Miami, landing just after noon—perfect timing to check into your boutique hotel, likely a restored colonial mansion inside the Walled City. Spend the early afternoon by the pool before your private guide picks you up for a custom-designed walking tour. Are you into architecture? Old colonial churches? Gabriel García Márquez’s hidden corners of the city? Pirate lore? Check, check, check. And because we know selfies shouldn’t interrupt a great tour, we’ll send a professional photographer to capture your golden hour moments among the vibrant streets of Cartagena.
Your evening begins with a welcome dinner at Candé, our favorite Caribbean-glam restaurant. Think coconut cream shrimp and lobster, signature cocktails, live music and dancers, and a Latin American 1950s-vibe that sweeps you into Cartagena’s soulful charm.
Day 2:
Start your morning with a personalized spa treatment at your hotel—after all, this is vacation. Then it’s time for your fashion hunt through Cartagena’s most stylish cobblestone streets. When you finish, we recommend retreating from the Caribbean sun to your boutique hotel’s private pool. Your evening features a private chocolate and rum tasting with our sommelier, a delicious way to understand Cartagena through its flavors. Later, take what you’ve learned to Cartagena’s iconic Alquímico Bar, where you’ll order the perfect cocktail and dance the night away.
Day 3:
It’s beach day! We’ll arrange a Rosario Islands day trip of island-hopping on a private speedboat with stops for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Prefer to unwind instead? We’ll set you up for a day of rest at a serene private beach club & spa—ideal for showcasing your new swimwear. Return to Cartagena with a dinner stop at Celele, ranked among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants.
It’s your last night in this tropical paradise, so take a leisurely walk through the Walled City’s live music-filled plazas with a cool drink in hand and let Cartagena’s sound become the soundtrack for your memories of this fun and fascinating getaway. Your flight departs at 3:00 PM the next day—no rush.
Experience Cartagena in 3 Days: A bespoke luxury itinerary through the colonial charm of the Walled City, vibrant streets, gourmet dining, a Rosario Islands day trip, and Cartagena’s iconic nightlife.
Best Shopping in Cartagena: Designer Boutiques & Fashion Gems
Cartagena is a treasure trove for fashion lovers, where local creativity meets international acclaim. Stroll through boutiques featuring designers like Beatriz Camacho, Silvia Tcherassi, and AZULU—names gracing the shelves of Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Revolve. From resort wear and linen ensembles to exquisite jewelry, home décor, and artisanal accessories, Cartagena offers a shopping experience unlike any other.
As an art historian, I see Colombian fashion as more than style—it’s a cultural expression rooted in ancestral traditions. Across these collections, you’ll notice four defining elements:
- Natural, local materials (wild cotton, palm fibers, gold, emeralds)
- Exquisite craftsmanship (filigree, weaving, embroidering, lost-wax techniques)
- Homages to nature (flora, fauna, ocean life)
- Commitment to sustainability (eco-conscious materials, ethical labor)
Allow me to introduce three standout brands that bring these elements to life:
Hand-embroidered floral dress from the AGUA by Agua Bendita Resort 2025 Collection — showcasing Colombian artisanal craftsmanship and luxury resort wear.
First gaining international acclaim for its vibrant handcrafted swimwear under the Agua Bendita label, the founders Mariana Hinestroza y Catalina Alvarez, launched AGUA by Agua Bendita in 2018— a distinct line dedicated to ultra-luxury fashion, focusing on exquisitely tailored floral dresses and refined ready-to-wear collections. Each piece is crafted using natural fibers like linen and cotton, hand-embroidered by local artisans—primarily women—preserving traditional techniques passed down through generations. Their collections are a love letter to Colombia’s biodiversity, featuring delicate motifs of native flora. Committed to sustainability, the brand champions ethical production, ensuring every garment reflects both environmental consciousness and timeless elegance. With a presence in over 60 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and various Latin American nations, and availability on major global e-commerce platforms such as Moda Operandi, MyTheresa, Net-a-Porter, and Bergdorf Goodman, their designs are adored by celebrities and stocked in premier retailers across the globe.
Loto del Sur boutique display and elegant packaging — Colombian luxury skincare, artisanal beauty products, and home fragrances inspired by botanical heritage.
Photo: Loto del Sur Instagram
More than a beauty brand, Loto del Sur is a sensory journey through Latin America’s botanical richness. Specializing in high-end skincare, home fragrances, and wellness products, Loto del Sur uses locally sourced natural ingredients—think Amazonian oils, Andean flowers, and tropical fruits. Their packaging is as refined as their formulas, often inspired by colonial aesthetics and artisanal detailing. Since its founding, visionary creator Johana Sanint has championed a philosophy where every product honors Colombia’s deep-rooted indigenous traditions in herbal medicine and perfumery, seamlessly blending ancestral wisdom with modern sustainability practices. From eco-friendly production to cruelty-free standards, Loto del Sur is a testament to Colombia’s ability to merge nature, science, and artistry into luxurious self-care. In 2022, the brand’s international appeal was recognized when Spanish luxury conglomerate Puig acquired a majority stake, aiming to expand Loto del Sur’s presence in the U.S., Europe, and across Latin America.
Werregue baskets and lamps — handcrafted by the Wounaan indigenous community of Colombia’s Pacific Coast, preserving generations-old weaving traditions in authentic Colombian artisanal décor. | Photo: Casa Chiqui Instagram
Founded by Colombian socialite and tastemaker Chiqui de Echavarría, Casa Chiqui is a haven for those who adore interiors as much as fashion. The boutique offers a curated collection of home décor that captures the essence of Colombian craftsmanship. Known for its vibrant handwoven textiles, artisanal furniture, and distinctive accent pieces, Casa Chiqui collaborates with indigenous communities and master artisans across Colombia. The brand emphasizes the use of natural materials—such as fique, iraca palm, and reclaimed woods—celebrating traditional weaving and carving techniques. Each piece tells a story of Colombia’s landscapes, from coastal blues to earthy jungle tones. Sustainability is at the heart of its philosophy, ensuring that every item supports ethical labor and preserves cultural heritage while bringing warmth and elegance to modern living spaces. Their pop-up in New York City introduced global audiences to Colombia’s cultural sophistication, while frequent features in Vogue, Elle Decor, and availability of signature pieces on Moda Operandi and Shop Bazaar have firmly established Casa Chiqui as a standout name in the international design world.
Where to Shop in Cartagena: Insider Guide to Boutiques & Artisanal Stores
Now you’re wondering: How to Navigate Cartagena’s Best Stores Like an Insider?
For a seamless and sophisticated Cartagena shopping experience, nothing compares to traveling with Cosmopolitours. We believe that luxury isn’t just about what you buy—it’s about how you buy it. That’s why our clients enjoy exclusive, curated options designed to transform a simple shopping day into an immersive cultural experience.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect resort ensemble, bespoke jewelry, or unique home décor, we offer two distinct services to elevate your journey:
- A curated shopping list paired with a personalized walking map, conveniently integrated into our itinerary app—allowing you to explore Cartagena’s boutiques with confidence and purpose.
- For those seeking a more bespoke touch, we provide a private shopping consultant—often a rising star Colombian designer or stylist trained abroad.—who will not only guide you through hidden gems but also offer personalized styling advice, brand insights, and exclusive introductions.
But even if you’re not traveling with us yet, you can still enjoy a taste of the Cosmopolitours’ Cartagena luxury travel. We’ve created Cartagena Chic: A Curated Shopping Guide to Boutiques in Cartagena by Cosmopolitours—a complimentary resource featuring the most popular boutiques, carefully selected based on what our clients have loved the most.
This free Cartagena shopping guide highlights 25 handpicked local designer stores where creativity, elegance, and craftsmanship truly shine. Inside, you’ll find recommendations everything from designer resort wear, emerald jewelry, and handcrafted hats to natural beauty products, Colombian shapewear, unique antiques, and even a gem of a bookstore for literary enthusiasts. Each location has been tested and treasured by our clients and staff—ensuring you bypass the guesswork and head straight to the city’s finest offerings.
Whether you have a few hours or a dedicated shopping day, this Cartagena shopping guide is your key to exploring the city like an insider—uncovering authentic treasures, supporting local artisans, and returning home with pieces that tell a story.
Cartagena Chic: A Curated Shopping Guide to Boutiques in Cartagena by Cosmopolitours
Cartagena Shopping Tips: How to Shop Smart & Stylish in Colombia
A few essential Cartagena shopping tips to help my fellow fashion lovers navigate the city in style:
- Shops open late (10-11 AM) and stay open into the evening—sleep in!
- Wear comfy shoes and sun protection—the Caribbean sun is no joke.
- No need for cash—international credit cards are widely accepted.
- Carry a copy of your passport for electronic invoices (essential for VAT refunds).
- Language barrier? Most staff speak basic English, but Google Translate is your friend.
- Stay aware, just as you would in Paris or Athens—Cartagena is a safe and welcoming city, but as locals say, “no des papaya”—to not give would-be street thieves a juicy target (juicy like a papaya). Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.
Global Blue Tax-Free Shopping sign — spot this symbol in Cartagena boutiques to ensure your purchases are eligible for a fast VAT refund through Global Blue kiosks | Cosmopolitours
Tax-Free Shopping in Cartagena: How to Claim Your VAT Refund
Immersing in Cartagena’s vibrant fashion scene comes with an added perk— foreign tourists can reclaim VAT on eligible purchases. Whether you’re curating your wardrobe with luxurious resort wear or selecting handcrafted décor, Colombia rewards travelers by allowing them to recover a portion of the value-added tax (IVA) on eligible goods.
To qualify, each purchase must meet a minimum of 3 UVT (Tax Value Units—a standard measure used by Colombian tax authorities, approximately USD $35). The maximum refund is 200 UVT (around USD $2,315). Refunds are issued to your international debit or credit card, with minor processing fees applied.
With that in mind, here are the two ways to claim your VAT refund Colombia shopping before you depart:
Option 1: VAT Refund via DIAN Offices – For the Thorough Planner
This official process requires you to present goods and electronic invoices before checking in your luggage. At the airport DIAN office, a customs officer will verify your purchases. Approved refunds will appear on your debit or credit within 30 days—ideal for travelers who prefer structured steps and peace of mind.
Option 2: VAT Refund via Global Blue Kiosks – For the Effortless Jet-Setter
A faster option located in major Colombian airports, including Cartagena’s, Global Blue kiosks allow you to claim your refund without showing your purchases. This applies only to participating stores, so when you are making your killer buys, request your Tax-Free Form at checkout. Refunds typically arrive within 10 calendar days—perfect for efficiency-minded travelers.
At Cosmopolitours, we guide our clients through every detail of this process, ensuring they shop confidently and secure their VAT refunds smoothly and on time, because when you travel with us, even the paperwork feels effortless.
Plan Your Cartagena Shopping Trip: Boutique Tours & Cultural Experiences
This is the perfect trip for mothers and daughters, a group of friends, or romantic couples. Ladies, don’t worry—we’ll keep your partners entertained while you indulge in retail therapy!
Not ready to book yet? No problem—start by downloading our free Cartagena shopping guide and start falling in love with Colombian fashion from afar. Let that curiosity turn into your next great journey.
At Cosmopolitours, we’re ready to craft your bespoke Cartagena adventure—the trip of a lifetime awaits.
Mayret Gonzalez Rubenstein is an art historian, Co-Founder of Cosmopolitours, and renowned Dream Trip Weaver. With a passion for cultural immersion and bespoke travel design, she specializes in crafting trips of a lifetime that blend art, history, and authentic experiences. Mayret’s work bridges her scholarly expertise with her dedication to curating unforgettable journeys for discerning travelers worldwide.
