Ocho43

Calle 8, number 43 - simple enough when the store's name is its address. The Ocho43 concept store sits on the corner of a quiet Calle 8 in El Poblado - Medellín's most prestigious neighbourhood, in the south-east of the city. This is where the best restaurants, bars, international and local boutiques, art galleries and business centres are concentrated.

Ocho43 has brought more than 70 Colombian designers under one roof. It's a store for women where you can find everything: from lingerie and swimwear to evening dresses, from jewellery to hats and shoes. Plus children's clothes, skincare and homeware. You'll be hard pressed to find two identical pieces here - each brand is represented in small runs.

Ocho43's founder Paula Villegas dreamed of becoming a fashion designer from childhood, and ended up creating a warm and welcoming space for other designers. She's now a mother, a grandmother and a tireless entrepreneur who loves travelling, fashion and family gatherings. Speaking of gatherings: at the back of the store there's an inner courtyard with a café where you can come with your dog, have a coffee, meet the owner or simply rest in the shade of the trees.

Locals come to Ocho43 for what they can't find in chain department stores. Tourists who stumble in come for the same reason - they just don't know it yet. Most of the brands at Ocho43 are only sold in Colombia, many only here in Medellín, and in very limited runs. If you see something and think "I'll buy it later" - chances are you won't. Because later it won't be there.