The Best Places to Shop in San Miguel De Allende, According to a Local Designer

Three hours north of Mexico City is the small city of San Miguel de Allende. This once-hidden gem is fast becoming an international art center, boasting some of the most beautiful art galleries and boutiques in the world. From its charming cobblestone lanes, stunning Spanish architecture, farm-to-table restaurants and cultural festivals, this quaint city has been dubbed by many as one of the most beautiful in the world.

But for designer Neithan Ruiz, who was born in Ecuador to Indigenous Inca parents, and raised in San Miguel de Allende, the city has come to represent the backdrop for storytelling through artisanship. An homage to his mother, who dedicated her life to promoting both Ecuadorian and Indigenous Mexican craftwork, nostalgia and romance are signatures of Neithan Herbert designs.

Ruiz’s love for his city runs deep. From locally crafted coffee to his urban oasis, he shares his top to-dos in San Miguel de Allende — because the best way to experience this under-the-radar destination is like a local.

Where to Stay

Live Aqua

“This place is a wonderful experience. All the architecture is so beautiful, it has plenty of restaurants and the baths are so nice. Really, I love everything about it.”

Where to Eat

Lavanda

“Lavanda — ‘land of lavender’ — is a small space, but almost everything is made with lavender, including the coffee and lemonade. It’s also a great place for breakfast.”

Where to Shop

Downtown

“Around the main church — La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel — is my favourite place to shop because there are lots of new and emerging Mexican fashion and jewellery designers.”

What to Wear

Neithan Herbert Plumerian jacket

“It’s a timeless and versatile piece. The ruffles and straps allow you to create different shapes. It’s my favourite piece in the collection.”

Where to Caffeinate

Cafe Ictze

“I just recently found a space called Cafe Ictze. They don’t even have a sign, but they bring all the coffee from Oaxaca and it’s really, really nice.”

Where to get pampered

Jesus Luna

“I don’t have a favourite hair salon, but I have a favourite hairstylist, his name is Jesus Luna. We always collaborate with him and he’s really good.”

This article first appeared in FASHION’s November 2024 issue. Find out more here.