Carnan and Copacabana Palace Launch New Streetwear Collection, “If It Wasn’t For You, Rio”

Known for its air of sophistication within Brazilian streetwear, Carnan has partnered with Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel. Copacabana Palace celebrated its 100th anniversary last year, and in honor of the milestone, the brand created an exclusive collection, “If Wasn’t For You, Rio,” honoring the various encounters that take place in the picturesque city.

Founded in Rio de Janeiro in 2018 by Paulo Henrique Carneiro and Breno Fernandes, Carnan was born from the desire for fashion to be a true reflection of the wearer’s personality. Informed by the laidback, cool essence of Brazilian streetwear, the brand developed special shirts, pants, jackets, caps, and bags that highlight the reverence for the landscapes of the Copacabana Palace and the city of Rio.

“Just as Carnan unites cultures and references from around the world to bring new perspectives to its products, the Copa is committed to honoring the past and inspiring the future, always bringing renewal and modernity to its projects,” says Ulisses Marreiros, the hotel’s general manager.

Open to the public in 1923, during the vibrant heyday of the Copacabana neighborhood, the hotel was built to be a Brazilian symbol of luxury and sophistication by the sea. With eclectic architecture, Brazilian marble and decorated in art deco style, its building has become a rare gem on the famous Avenida Atlântica. The coastal avenue is the most famous in the city and has hosted personalities such as Brigitte Bardot, Princess Diana, the Rolling Stones, Bob Marley, Madonna and Nelson Mandela. For over a century, Copacabana Palace has been a backdrop for unforgettable encounters, remarkable events and grand celebrations.

The “If Wasn’t For You, Rio” collab pieces showcase numerous architectural references and symbols found throughout the hotel, reflecting its more than 100 years of history. In search of inspiration, Paulo and Breno conducted in-depth research into the history of the Copa, as well as many visits and conversations with the staff. The richness of each detail, hand-painted textures and even the energy that the place transmits to those who pass through have been brought into this exclusive collection.

“Rio de Janeiro has always been the setting for great encounters and stories that have shaped who we are. This collection is a tribute to the city that inspires us, that welcomed us and that gave us the chance to build our dream. This collaboration between Carnan and Copacabana Palace, one of the greatest icons of our city, reflects the gratitude that both of us feel for everything Rio has given us so far,” says Paulo Carneiro.

The initiative also aims to support the social sphere of the neighboring communities around Copa. Bringing to the project an institution with over 40 years of experience, Solar Meninos de Luz, the organization will receive 20% of the profits from the sale of collab pieces. The philanthropic group promotes education, culture, sports and basic healthcare for 430 children in the Pavão-Pavãozinho and Cantagalo communities in Copacabana, in Rio de Janeiro’s South Zone.

The Carnan x Copacabana Palace collection is available on Carnan’s website and at the Copacabana Palace boutique.