Havana – free from huge malls, mass-market brands, and products made in Asia (if you don’t count Che T-shirts) – has a few excellent shopping opportunities that you shouldn’t miss. For me, this is exactly how 21st-century slow fashion should look: locally made, eco-conscious, and created with care and love. Some of the boutiques we listed below are hard to spot, so make sure to download your maps.me before going.
Dador Havana
Clothes and accessories
Address: Amargura 253, Old Havana, Havana, Cuba 10100
Dador Havana was founded by three creative ladies who decided to give Cuban fashion a modern twist. All their clothes and accessories are made in an adjacent studio. Dador designers use natural fabrics and simple forms inspired by the ocean. Cuba is an island after all!
Clandestina
Clothes and accessories
Address: 403 Villegas, Havana, Cuba.
Clandestina is the first privately own Cuban clothing line and designer boutique. It uses exclusively upcycled fabrics and materials. Their T-shirts reflect Cuba’s sophisticated, subtle sense of humor. I am particularly fond of the one that says Actually I am in Havana. My husband loves his wallet made from a rice sack. Everything is manufactured right at the store. Visitors can see their print workshop.
ZULU Bags
Clothes and accessories
Address: Calle Aguacate 456, entre Teniente Rey y Muralla, Havana, Cuba.
If you are looking for a colorful, original, handmade leather bag, this is your place. Made in small series, vibrant colors, and with a big heart, Zulu bags are crafted from reclaimed leather. It is a family business; the name comes from their last name, Zulueta. Pop in and see the owner and main designer working on her new collection.
