Lucas Leão’s “Coração Suburbano” Debuts at São Paulo Fashion Week

Emerging as a fresh force in Brazilian fashion, Lucas Leão presented his deeply personal “Coração Suburbano” collection at the latest São Paulo Fashion Week. Drawing from his intimate memories and roots in Rio de Janeiro’s North Zone, Leão paid homage to the luxury and identity of the suburban culture that has been a profound source of inspiration throughout his life.

Lucas Leão Explores Personal Roots in “Coração Suburbano” Collection at São Paulo Fashion Week

Emerging as a fresh force in Brazilian fashion, Lucas Leão presented his deeply personal “Coração Suburbano” collection at the latest São Paulo Fashion Week. Drawing from his intimate memories and roots in Rio de Janeiro’s North Zone, Leão paid homage to the luxury and identity of the suburban culture that has been a profound source of inspiration throughout his life.

Coming from a family of tailors, Leão has always infused his work with traditional tailoring elements, challenging Eurocentric dominance by reinterpreting them with symbols of Brazilian culture. This collection spotlighted two iconic figures from his childhood: the bate-bola, with its luxurious, embroidered costumes embodying the essence of street carnival, and the bride, representing ultimate glamour and femininity as seen in local bridal shops.

Handcrafted textures took centre stage, with over three thousand embroidered tulle flowers adorning various pieces, adding delicacy and exuberance to the runway. Techniques like crochet and knitting emphasised the artisanal nature of the collection, reflecting Leão’s commitment to originality and manual processes. This approach stands in stark contrast to the fast-fashion industry’s pursuit of easy, replicable solutions, positioning Brazilian craftsmanship as a utopian celebration of authenticity.

Collaboration was a key theme, as Leão joined forces with the Rio-based brand MAKAI to create three runway looks that merged MAKAI’s feminine, Carioca identity with his own artisanal essence. Accessories played a significant role, featuring 100% fabric sunglasses from Vanilla Eyewear, bags from Nath Bag, jewellery from Guria, and ceramic masks crafted by artist Nathan Braga, which complemented the bate-bola inspired pieces.

Leão’s collection is not just a fashion statement but a visual manifesto that celebrates and reinvents the history of Rio’s suburbs through design. It reaffirms his dedication to representativity, inclusion, and innovation while staying true to his roots. As he puts it, “I hope everyone can share this special moment with me, diving into these deep waters of memories transformed into fashion.”