the first thing to think about when dressing for downtown rio is the weather, especially since many north american or european visitors are not equipped with the right kind of loose or thin cotton clothing to stay comfortable for long periods of time in the sun.

it is worth wandering the chic streets of ipanema or leblon to get an idea of what is popular carioca wear, as many locals will flaunt their newest purchases while walking around trendy neighborhoods - the boutiques and shops on street corners will sell exactly what is needed to blend in effortlessly with the locals, and take back home a bit of carioca style.