When in Rio...

Support Team GB with some of the hottest medalworthy fashion. Katie Wright rounds up the best Olympicinspired buys

With the Olympic Games just days away, all eyes are on Rio, but you don’t have to travel all the way to Brazil to capture the colourful style of the seaside city.

“Brazilian fashionistas convey their mindset through their clothes, which allows women to be proud of their body and accentuate their strengths,” explains Stephanie Margaronis, founder of Blaiz.co.uk, which stocks South American designers in the UK.

“There is no limit to the textiles you can wear, the colours you can combine, and the uniqueness that you can feel through fashion.”

That vibrant aesthetic has also been inspiring swim and sportswear brands this year, with Rio-flavoured collections and collaborations aplenty.

From flip-flops to frocks, meet summer’s best Brazilian buys...

LIFE’S A BEACH

“Brazil has many swimwear designers, as there is a very strong beach culture, especially in Rio, where all socialising is based around the miles of beach in Ipanema and Leblon,” says Stephanie. “Lenny Niemeyer represents the Brazilian style in that she designs for the confident, independent lady.”

Lenny Niemeyer Imperial Bandeau Bikini, reduced to £105 from £150 (Blaiz. co.uk)

Lenny Niemeyer Ikat Asymmetric Swimsuit, reduced to £125 from £170 (Blaiz.co.uk)

Frescobol Carioca Bat Tailored Swim Shorts, £150 (www.frescobolcarioca. com)

FOREST FASHION

Inspired by the verdant vistas of the rainforest, Closet London’s Amazonian Dreams collection is packed with punchy prints, tropical florals and sunset hues, perfect for

your summer wardrobe, whether you’re vacationing or not.

Closet London Green Floral Box Pleat Print Dress, £60 (www.closetlondon.com)

Closet London Multi V Neck Leaf Print Flared Dress, £60 (www. closetlondon.com)

BESPOKE BUYS

“Designers experiment with artisan techniques when making all items of clothing, from clutches made of bamboo, to dresses made from straw,” Margaronis explains. “The more unique, and the longer the pieces take to make, the better.”

Nannacay’s straw bags, which take 10 hours to hand-weave in Brazil, embody that spirit, and are the ideal beach companion.

Nannacay Taormina Juana Straw Tote, £180 (Blaiz.co.uk)

OLYMPIC FEET

Based on a Japanese straw design, the first rubber flip-flops were invented in Brazil, patented by Havaianas in 1962, and instantly became a huge success. Now a summer footwear essential the world over, this year sees the release of several pairs paying homage to their South American roots.

Havaianas Slim Rio 2016, £24 (www. havaianas-store.com)

Ipanema Flag II, £15 (www.ipanema. uk.com)

MAKE A SPLASH

Aqua Sphere has teamed up with swimming legend Michael Phelps on a collection of Brazil-inspired swimwear.

Featuring zingy prints with high-tech construction from sustainable materials, these swimmers are designed to elite athlete specifications.

Aqua Sphere MP Corco Round Back Suit, £39.99 (www.aquasphereswim. com).