Monocle's Quality of Life Conference in Lisbon Spotlights Summer Style and Portuguese Labels

Monocle's Quality of Life Conference took place in Lisbon from Thursday 3 to Saturday 5 September, drawing delegates who navigated an event without a formal dress code. At the welcome cocktail, temperatures reached 37C, prompting most attendees to assemble looks combining linen jackets, fine T-shirts and smart sandals. The programme ran from an auditorium to a farewell brunch across three days. First-time attendees had reportedly emailed organisers beforehand to ask whether the gala dinner would be formal, whether ties were advisable and whether shorts were acceptable on city tours, while returning delegates from São Paulo to Manila relied on trusted wardrobe favourites. Portuguese attendees had an advantage, with access to their full wardrobes and to summer-ready domestic brands including La Paz and +351. Team Portugal, among them Lisbon's mayor Carlos Moedas and designer Joana Astolfi, maintained a sharp appearance throughout. On stage, Nicolas Gabard, founder of the Parisian label Husbands, argued that dressing up should be enjoyable and should express personal identity. The conference's style coverage highlighted a selection of favourite looks from the gathering. Monocle also pointed readers to its listing of upcoming events.