From Medellín to Cartagena: Unveiling the 10 Most Popular Clothing Brands in Colombia

Colombian fashion is a captivating blend of tradition, innovation, and cultural diversity that reflects the country’s vibrant spirit and unique heritage. From the bustling streets of Medellín to the sun-drenched beaches of Cartagena, Colombia’s fashion scene is a tapestry woven with creativity and passion. This article explores the top 10 most popular clothing brands in Colombia that have not only shaped Colombian style but have also garnered admiration on the global stage for their creativity and quality.

Totto: The Iconic Backpack Brand

• Year of Establishment: 1987
• Key People: Marta Velez (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Functional and urban-inspired designs, focusing on durability and style.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $150 million USD
• Headquarters: Bogotá, Colombia

Founded in 1987, Totto revolutionized the backpack industry with its innovative designs and durable craftsmanship. What started as a brand focused on school bags has evolved into a lifestyle brand offering a wide range of products, including travel gear, accessories, and apparel. Totto’s success lies in its commitment to functionality and urban style, catering to the needs of modern travelers and adventurers. Each Totto product combines practicality with contemporary aesthetics, making it a favorite among students, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts.

photo/ semana

Studio F: Trendsetting Women’s Fashion

• Year of Establishment: 1981
• Key People: Carlos Ronderos (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Trendsetting and sophisticated women’s fashion with Latin American influences.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $100 million USD
• Headquarters: Bogotá, Colombia

Studio F has become synonymous with trendsetting women’s fashion in Colombia since its inception in 1981. The brand is celebrated for its sophisticated designs, quality fabrics, and attention to detail. Studio F’s collections cater to modern women who value elegance and individuality in their wardrobe. From office wear to evening gowns, each Studio F piece is crafted to empower and inspire confidence. The brand’s success is rooted in its ability to blend international trends with Latin American influences, creating a unique style that resonates with fashion-forward women across Colombia.

photo/ colombiaenlinea

Gef: Affordable and Stylish Apparel

• Year of Establishment: 1990
• Key People: Carlos Arturo Ardila (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Affordable and stylish apparel for the whole family, blending classic and contemporary styles.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $80 million USD
• Headquarters: Medellín, Colombia

Gef has made fashion accessible to all Colombians since its establishment in 1990. The brand offers a diverse range of affordable yet stylish apparel for men, women, and children. Gef’s collections strike a balance between timeless classics and contemporary trends, ensuring that every customer finds something to suit their taste and budget. Whether it’s casual basics, workwear, or occasion wear, Gef’s clothing exudes versatility and effortless charm, making it a staple in Colombian households.

photo/ elcolombiano

Tennis: Casual and Sporty Clothing

• Year of Establishment: 1984
• Key People: Eduardo Osorio (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Casual and sporty clothing reflecting Colombian urban culture and active lifestyle.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $70 million USD
• Headquarters: Bogotá, Colombia

Tennis embodies the laid-back lifestyle of Colombian urban culture through its casual and sporty clothing lines. Established in 1984, Tennis caters to individuals who prioritize comfort without compromising style. The brand’s apparel ranges from athleisure wear to everyday basics, designed with urban aesthetics and functional details. Tennis is a favorite among active individuals and trend-conscious consumers seeking casual yet fashionable outfits for daily wear.

photo/ googlemaps

Leonisa: Premium Lingerie and Shapewear

• Year of Establishment: 1956
• Key People: Joaquín Ernesto Urrea (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Premium lingerie and shapewear emphasizing comfort, quality, and elegance.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $200 million USD
• Headquarters: Medellín, Colombia

Leonisa has been synonymous with luxury lingerie and shapewear since 1956. The brand is renowned for its commitment to innovation, comfort, and femininity. Leonisa’s lingerie collections feature exquisite lace, intricate detailing, and advanced technology to provide optimal support and enhance natural curves. From everyday essentials to special occasion pieces, Leonisa offers women a blend of sensuality and sophistication, empowering them to embrace their beauty with confidence.

photo/ pinterest

Arturo Calle: Classic Men’s Fashion

• Year of Establishment: 1967
• Key People: Arturo Calle (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Classic and refined men’s fashion with impeccable tailoring and attention to detail.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $120 million USD
• Headquarters: Bogotá, Colombia

Arturo Calle is a pillar of classic men’s fashion in Colombia, founded in 1967. The brand epitomizes timeless elegance and impeccable tailoring, offering a range of formal and casual attire for discerning gentlemen. Arturo Calle’s suits, shirts, and accessories are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and premium fabrics, ensuring a perfect fit and superior quality. Whether dressing for business or leisure, men trust Arturo Calle for sophisticated and versatile wardrobe essentials.

Fuera de Serie: Unique and Contemporary Designs

• Year of Establishment: 1985
• Key People: María Consuelo Escobar (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Avant-garde and unconventional designs for those who embrace artistic expression in fashion.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $50 million USD
• Headquarters: Medellín, Colombia

Fuera de Serie stands out for its avant-garde approach to fashion, challenging norms and celebrating individuality. Established in 1985, the brand pushes boundaries with its unconventional designs and artistic expressions. Fuera de Serie appeals to free-spirited individuals who seek clothing that makes a statement. From edgy streetwear to conceptual runway pieces, each Fuera de Serie creation is a testament to creativity and self-expression.

Also Read-Inside Look: Unveiling The 10 Most Popular Clothing Brands in Lebanon

Maaji: Colorful Swimwear

• Year of Establishment: 2002
• Key People: Juliana Londoño (Co-Founder), Nani Valenzuela (Co-Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Colorful and playful swimwear and resort wear inspired by Colombia’s tropical landscapes.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $60 million USD
• Headquarters: Medellín, Colombia

Maaji brings the vibrancy of Colombian beach culture to life through its colorful and whimsical swimwear collections. Founded in 2002, Maaji is known for its playful prints, reversible designs, and sustainable practices. Each Maaji swimsuit is a wearable work of art, designed to evoke joy and spontaneity. The brand’s commitment to eco-friendly materials and ethical production resonates with beach lovers worldwide, who appreciate Maaji’s dedication to preserving the beauty of our oceans.

Baobab: Sustainable Fashion

• Year of Establishment: 2007
• Key People: Paula Trujillo (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Sustainable fashion using organic fabrics and minimalist aesthetics.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $30 million USD
• Headquarters: Bogotá, Colombia

Baobab leads the charge in sustainable fashion in Colombia, prioritizing eco-conscious practices since its inception in 2007. The brand’s collections feature organic fabrics, natural dyes, and minimalist designs. Baobab’s clothing is timeless yet contemporary, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers seeking stylish and ethical alternatives. By championing sustainability, Baobab sets an example for the fashion industry, demonstrating that style and responsibility can coexist harmoniously.

Onda de Mar: Beachwear with a Tropical Twist

• Year of Establishment: 1999
• Key People: Catalina Alvarez (Founder)
• Design Philosophy: Chic and sophisticated beachwear capturing Colombia’s coastal lifestyle.
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $40 million USD
• Headquarters: Medellín, Colombia

Onda de Mar captures the essence of Colombian beach life through its stylish and sophisticated swimwear and resort wear. Established in 1999, Onda de Mar draws inspiration from Colombia’s coastal beauty, incorporating exotic prints and luxurious fabrics. Each Onda de Mar piece exudes a sense of relaxation and adventure, reflecting the carefree spirit of beachgoers. Whether lounging by the pool or strolling along the shore, Onda de Mar evokes a sense of tropical escapism and effortless glamour.

Popular Clothing Brands in Colombia at a Glance:

Here’s a table presenting the information about the most popular clothing brands in Colombia:

Brand	Year of Establishment	Key People	Design Philosophy	Annual Revenue (Approx.)	Headquarters
Totto	1987	Marta Velez (Founder)	Functional and urban-inspired designs, focusing on durability.	$150 million USD	Bogotá, Colombia
Studio F	1981	Carlos Ronderos (Founder)	Trendsetting and sophisticated women’s fashion with Latin influences.	$100 million USD	Bogotá, Colombia
Gef	1990	Carlos Arturo Ardila (Founder)	Affordable and stylish apparel for the whole family.	$80 million USD	Medellín, Colombia
Tennis	1984	Eduardo Osorio (Founder)	Casual and sporty clothing reflecting Colombian urban culture.	$70 million USD	Bogotá, Colombia
Leonisa	1956	Joaquín Ernesto Urrea (Founder)	Premium lingerie and shapewear emphasizing comfort and elegance.	$200 million USD	Medellín, Colombia
Arturo Calle	1967	Arturo Calle (Founder)	Classic and refined men’s fashion with impeccable tailoring.	$120 million USD	Bogotá, Colombia
Fuera de Serie	1985	María Consuelo Escobar (Founder)	Avant-garde and unconventional designs for artistic expression.	$50 million USD	Medellín, Colombia
Maaji	2002	Juliana Londoño (Co-Founder)	Colorful and playful swimwear and resort wear inspired by tropical landscapes.	$60 million USD	Medellín, Colombia
Baobab	2007	Paula Trujillo (Founder)	Sustainable fashion using organic fabrics and minimalist aesthetics.	$30 million USD	Bogotá, Colombia
Onda de Mar	1999	Catalina Alvarez (Founder)	Chic and sophisticated beachwear capturing Colombia’s coastal lifestyle.	$40 million USD	Medellín, Colombia

Please note that annual revenue is approximate and it varies year to year.

Conclusion

Colombian fashion is not just about clothing; it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and craftsmanship. Each of the 10 popular brands in Colombia showcased in this article represents a unique facet of Colombian style, from affordability and accessibility to luxury and sophistication. As these brands continue to push boundaries and innovate, Colombian fashion will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the global stage.

FAQs about Colombian Fashion

1. Are Colombian fashion brands affordable? Colombian fashion brands offer a range of price points, catering to various budgets. While some brands focus on luxury, others provide affordable options without compromising style.

2. How influential is Colombian fashion globally? Colombian fashion is increasingly gaining recognition worldwide, with its unique designs and quality craftsmanship appealing to an international audience.

3. What makes Colombian swimwear special? Colombian swimwear brands like Maaji and Onda de Mar are known for their vibrant colors, tropical prints, and flattering cuts, capturing the essence of Colombia’s coastal lifestyle.

4. Are Colombian fashion brands sustainable? Several Colombian brands, such as Baobab, prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices.

5. Where can I purchase Colombian fashion brands outside of Colombia? Many Colombian fashion brands have online stores that ship internationally. Additionally, select retailers in major cities worldwide may carry Colombian fashion collections.

6. What are the most popular clothing brands in Colombia? “Totto, Studio F, Gef, Tennis, Leonisa, Arturo Calle, Fuera de Serie, Maaji, Baobab, Onda de Mar” these are the most popular clothing brands in Colombia.