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I recently got back from a four-day trip to Oaxaca de Juárez, otherwise known as Oaxaca, the capital of the Mexican state of Oaxaca. I went for a friend’s wedding. (Side note: if you’re ever invited to a wedding in Oaxaca, prepare to be blown away! The customs and traditions are absolutely incredible.) It was my first time visiting the vibrant cultural and culinary capital, and I was truly captivated by the magical city.
I stayed at the boutique Hotel Los Amantes in the historic center (the buzzy scene and the breakfast here are amazing, FYI), which was conveniently located close to the colorful colonial buildings and the famous Templo de Santo Domingo, a cathedral admired for its striking baroque architecture and a meeting place for many locals.
Between wedding festivities, I spent most of my days walking the beautiful, colorful cobblestone streets; indulging in Mexican street food and Oaxacan mezcal; and checking out the coolest coffee spots and bustling markets. More than anything, I did what I do best—shopped! Oaxaca is an absolute shopping paradise, and I get very impassioned every time I talk about the shopping there. Sure, you get the average dose of touristy merch, but I found the markets and boutiques to be of great quality, with beautiful handmade goods. From the traditional Mexican embroidered dresses, tunics, and blouses to the colorful beaded jewelry and handwoven Zapotec textiles to the colorful woven bags and rustic clay pottery (I bought a full set of bowls, cups, and water jugs), the city is bursting with unique and vibrant cultural and traditional delights.
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If you’re headed to the historic city, I’m sharing my condensed packing list of essentials to take with you on your trip that are perfect for exploring the city, keeping you cool, and fitting in with the Oaxacan vibe. I’m also sharing some of my favorite spots for shopping in the stunning city. Keep scrolling and get inspired to add Oaxaca to your travel bucket list.
(Image credit: Future)
Linen and Cotton Dresses + Versatile Sneakers
Oaxaca’s average year-round temperature is between 63°F and 72°F, and in the summer, it can reach the high 80s, which means dressing in lightweight and breathable layers is key. Naturally airy cotton and linen are the way to go. I wore linen and cotton dresses that I styled with comfortable sneakers since I walked a ton throughout the city. I particularly love my low-profile red SeaVees sneakers that are chic for day and night.
SeaVees
Parsons Low Profile Trainer
H&M
Poplin Halterneck Dress
Colorful and Bold Accessories
Oaxaca is bold, vibrant, and colorful, and I leaned into that vibe with statement accessories. A bold beaded necklace (which you can find at so many of the markets around Oaxaca if you want to buy one there), a colorful headscarf, and statement earrings will elevate your basics in an instant.
Soleil Soleil
Scarf in Vestige
Missoma
Zenyu Fan Chandelier Hoop Earrings
Little Words Project
Grounded Stretch Bracelet
Julietta
Mavis Beaded Necklace
Raffia Bags + Straw Hats
Oaxaca’s warm and laid-back vibes mean you can forgo heavy leather accessories for easy raffia and straw bags and hats instead.
Sézane
Justine Basket Bag
Favorite Daughter
The Straw Favorite Hat
Tank Tops + Flowy Skirts
Flowy skirts are another great option to mix and match with tank tops and tees. I bought this white one from one of the markets in Oaxaca. Pair them with chic beaded accessories to finish the look.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Boho Maxi Skirt
Comfortable, Versatile Sandals
When I wasn’t in sneakers, I was wearing comfy sandals in colors that pair well with everything and are versatile enough for day and night. In fact, I didn’t bring heels on this trip (only wedges for the wedding).
DOLCE VITA
Dom Sandals Saddle Leather
A.EMERY
The Viola Sandals
Colorful Statement Pieces
If there’s anywhere to sport pops of color, it’s Oaxaca! The city is vibrant, and I brought a few statement pieces to reflect that vibe.
(Image credit: @joiedejude)
Madewell
The Easy Shirt in Linen Blend
POSSE
Veda Broderie Anglaise Organic Cotton Poplin Mini Dress
Gap Factory
Pull-On Linen-Blend Shorts
J.Crew
Luna Pant in Cotton Poplin
Where to Shop
- Lia: This cool boutique and café has an impressive selection of carefully curated ceramics, handmade artisanal products, clothing, and accessories and serves delicious coffee in a lovely atmosphere.
- Mercado Benito Juárez and 20 de Noviembre: The two markets are located two blocks south of the Zócalo. You’ll find literally everything from incredible local food products to crafts and artisan goods.
- Mercado de Artesanías: This is one of the city’s largest markets dedicated exclusively to quality Oaxacan crafts, clothing, and jewelry.
- Piedra de Río: This is one of my favorite places to buy traditional pottery at decent prices. I bought a whole set of bowls, mugs, and a water jug there.
- Cooperativa 1050°: Here’s another gorgeous boutique that offers a curated selection of Oaxaca’s famous pottery in barro rojo, an earthy rust-colored clay, and barro negro, the iconic black version—all handmade by artisans around Oaxaca.
- Marias Arte y Diseño: This is the perfect spot to pick up gifts, prints, drawings, home goods, and unique pieces by emerging Mexican artists and designers. I love the colorful atmosphere, and the whole row of stores beside this charming boutique is worth strolling into as well.
