Miami Shoot

The Issue

Entertainment, The Issue

One on One with Ayah Marar

By Gisel Habibnejad International music artist, Ayah Marar, leaves a unique trace of talent on everything she touches. Her talent can be found in all aspects of the industry, from songwriting to collaborations with Calvin Harris. Although she was born in Jordan, her musical abilities grew when she moved to the UK – at the tender age of seventeen. Everything she has to thank for her success throughout her musical journey can be heard within each of her songs. MSM sits down with Ayah to discuss her journey: MSM: When did you realize you wanted to pursue music professionally? AM: I have always been involved in music, I got my Grade 8 classical piano at 16 and was a ballet dancer for 10 years. When I moved to the UK I got involved in running a DnB [drum and bass] night and a label, it was a natural progression! MSM: What was it like moving to the UK from Jordan and living with a newfound independence at the age of 17? AM: I loved it. It allowed me to explore music and friendships in a way I had never before. I loved growing up in the Middle East but London is definitely home now. MSM: Who are your biggest musical influences? AM: I adore music and am inspired by it however it comes. If something is done with love, you can feel it regardless of technical execution. I adore Badu, Robyn, Michael, Stevie, Hathaway, Ella, so much inspiration in music it’s hard to pinpoint! MSM: How have your Jordanian roots and UK living experiences influenced your music and lyrical writing style? AM: I’m not sure that they have really, my experiences are personal, they wouldn’t be affected by where I am, more what I’m feeling and who I’m around. MSM: How have you managed to balance and co-exist in the underground and mainstream musical worlds? AM: Well, it’s a daily grind and I’m always trying to find ways to keep it balanced. I’ve been lucky in my collaborations and the people I have worked with, my team and I liaise daily about how we keep things relevant and progressive, and most importantly, entertaining. MSM: Tell us about the first time you met Calvin Harris. What is it like working with him? AM: Calvin and I met at a record shop I worked at in the early 2000s. He needed a place to live and I had a spare room, we lived and worked together and have been buddies ever since. I feature on his last two albums. I’m so proud of him. MSM: What was the inspiration behind your latest song, “Bass Soldier?” AM: “Bass Soldiers” is a nod to all the people who have kept DnB [drum and bass] alive and who continue to love their work and their scene. We are in this together, man. MSM: What is in store for your fans in 2015? AM: Lots of music, shows, and possibly a second album! Watch this space! MSM: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? AM: Keep supporting independent music and feel free to say ‘hello’ on my socials! Photography by ANDREW ATTAH Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Living, Luxury, Real Estate, The Issue

The Residences at Park Grove

By Angela Betancourt For the past several years there has been a lot of excitement about new residential and mix-use developments being built across Miami-Dade County. Brickell and Miami Beach often steal the spotlight with their billion dollar projects, luxury new residences, and all the opulent amenities that come along with them. However, there are several other neighborhoods experiencing their own share of new development projects, among them is Coconut Grove. This historical area is one of Miami’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Dating back to 1925, Coconut Grove is known for its parks and gardens, hammock trees, art festivals, shopping, and historical landmarks. Coconut Grove is located approximately 10-15 minutes from Brickell, yet this proximity has not had an effect on this neighborhood’s unique identity. These characteristics were part of what caught the attention of the Terra Group and The Related Group. The two powerhouse developers have joined forces for the first time to create The Residences at Park Grove on a 5.2 acre property directly across from Biscayne Bay. The architecture is led by OMA and Rem Koolhaas in collaboration with kitchen and bath designer William Sofield, and Enea Landscape Architecture. The project masterminds recently came together for a design talk event to showcase building renderings and discuss the vision behind the design. A crowd of 250 top-tier brokers, buyers and tastemakers gathered to hear legendary architect Shohei Shigematsu from OMA and famed landscape designer Enzo Enea, dis- cuss the past and future of Coconut Grove as well as their take on new trends in residential architecture and how they perceive design and development in Miami. Both Shigematsu and Enea revealed how their designs look at urbanism and historical elements specific to the Grove’s existing climate and culture; and their in- tentions to “elevate” Coconut Grove while honoring its historical elements. The hour-long discussion was moderated by Ted Loos, a design expert and regular contributor of Architectural Digest and hosted by co-developers of the property: David Martin, President of Terra Group and Carlos Rosso, President of Condo Development The Related Group. The Residences at Park Grove is set for completion in late 2016. The units will range between 2,500 to 3,500 square feet. Glass walls will give residents end- less views of the marina and Biscayne Bay as well as an abundance of natural light. From the expansive balco- nies, spacious living areas, airy dining rooms, and fully equipped kitchens, the designers did not cut any cor- ners. In addition to amenities that rival those found at any world class luxury resort, Park Grove will also have a private rooftop pool deck with views of the city. The meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the individual residents and out into the buildings two- acre sculpture park where Enea set out to create a se- rene and lush garden for residents to enjoy. The Residences at Park Grove will increasingly draw more attention as it unfolds in one of Miami’s most established neighborhoods; bringing in new elements and establishing roots of its own. Photography Courtesy of THE RELATED GROUP AND TERRA GROUP Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Living, Luxury, MSM Online, Real Estate, The Issue

Living with Style – FENDI Château Residences

  By Angela Betancourt 9365 Collins Ave in Surfside will soon be the home to FENDI Château Residences, a 12 story condominium building with 58 exclusive waterfront residences that feature uninterrupted views along 300-linear feet of pristine beachfront. Miami luxury developer Château Group and FENDI, the Italian luxury house, have joined forces to build this new high-end development located just a few blocks south of the world renowned Bal Harbour Shops. Slated to be completed in the summer of 2016, FENDI Château Residences is the first branded real estate project globally for the FENDI Company, and as of December, is already 50% sold. “We are pleased to bring FENDI Château Residences to the Miami market place. The residences will allow residents to savor the pulsating life of Miami with its avant-garde art and design culture, as well as its sandy beaches and lush surroundings,” said Manuel Grosskopf, Château Group President. On December 2nd during Art Basel, the building ’s sales center held a special event to showcase a full model residence where invited guests had the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the FENDI Château living experience. Every single detail was accounted for; the ultra modern kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, the elegant accessories, and the Italian marble finished bathrooms, were all depicted exactly as they will be when the building is complete. Grosskopf and FENDI Chairman and CEO Pietro Beccari were both in attendance to provide additional project insight and share their excitement to create this luxury project that will be unlike anything else in the community. “This has been a successful and enjoyable partnership. Both Château Group and FENDI share an unwavering passion for producing high quality products with an acute focus on design and creativity, underscored by the art of excellence,” said Grosskopf. The residences and penthouses range from 3,000 square feet to more than 7,000 square feet with prices ranging from $5 million to $25 million. Each unit comes equipped with plush amenity areas designed by FENDI and decorated with FENDI Casa fixtures and fittings. The building’s common areas include a library, business center, ballroom, kid’s club, reflective ponds, a relaxation terrace with aromatherapy, private cinema, lounge with gourmet kitchen, restaurant, a state-of-the-art fitness center overlooking the ocean, bicycle storage, multiple beachfront pools with cabanas, and numerous other lavish amenities. Residents will also have access to “white glove” services, including a 24-hour multi-lingual concierge staff, beachfront and poolside service, and a doorman and valet. “This is a very important project for us,” said Beccari. Together with the Château Group, FENDI Château Residences further establishes the FENDI brand within the luxury private home sector. When the FENDI Château Residences are complete, it will add an entire new dimension of luxury living to the Bal Harbour and Surfside communities. Photography Courtesy of FENDI CHÂTEAU RESIDENCES Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 Issue.

Living, Luxury, The Issue

Artefacto Debuts Its First Fabric Collection During Art Basel

By Angela Betancourt Celebrating 35 years of design and innovation, Artefacto has established itself as one of the world’s leading creators of contemporary furnishings. At the helm is Artefacto’s CEO Paulo Bacchi whose vision made the company the preferred choice for designers, developers, and South Florida residents. Their continued success is a reflection of their ability to stay relevant and always on the cutting edge of the interior design industry. During Art Basel and Miami Art Week, Artefacto debuted its first-ever fabric collection titled Animal Prints by Lais Bacchi, a collection of three bold neutral prints in five original fabrics presented on natural velvets designed by Paulo’s wife Lais. A jewelry designer and fashion icon, Lais Bacchi has already gained a lot of recognition for her company LB designs, a hand crafted jewelry line manufactured by artisans in her native Brazil. With Animal Prints, Lais had the opportunity to apply her vibrant sense of style in a new way: making her and her husband a power couple of interior design. “I drew from my background as a stylist and a jewelry designer to envision Artefacto’s first fabric collection, Animal Prints. The punchy patterns add a little bit of flair to Artefacto’s usually neutral palette of light woods, whites and chrome by virtue of their rich, luxurious texture and versatile nature.” The fabrics will add an additional element to Artefacto’s design style with upholstered and decorative accent pieces. In addition to the launch of Animal Prints, Artefacto also unveiled the Projecto Cubos exhibit, a series of custom acrylic art pieces created by 10 celebrated Brazilian artists. The exhibit will run until the end of January and will then be donated for auction at the IV Gala Brazil Foundation in Miami. Artefacto also showcased the work of Miami photographer Daniel Azoulay who presented an exclusive collection of new work inspired by the movement of ballet dancers. The photographs were displayed throughout the entire showroom. To celebrate the launch of Animal Prints, Projecto Cubos, and Azoulay’s work, Artefacto hosted an invitation only champagne brunch and exhibition at their main showroom in Aventura. More than 100 guests were in attendance, among them the “who’s-who” of Brazilian interior designers, architects, artists, and stylists, who are some of Artefacto’s most important clients. Guests showed excitement as they admired the new fabrics and exhibits. They sipped on endless champagne and delectable bites, and networked amongst each other. Overall the launch proved to be an exciting affair. Artefacto’s ability to partner with artists, who so well complement the company’s aesthetics, is just another sign that they are on the right track to continued to success. Photography by BRETT HUFZIGER Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Health & Fitness, The Issue

The New Year Standard Procedure

By Gisel Habibnejad With the New Year comes new resolutions. The most common of all is health and fitness related; however, rarely do people stay true to it all year long. You can make this year different by searching for fun and unique ideas. The Standard Spa Miami has health and fitness activities that will make you not want to stray away from your goals. Just as fitness is important to you, it is just as important to The Standard Spa Miami. They want to ensure you enjoy your workouts with a unique experience. Paddle Board your way to a better body with their exclusive stand up session that strengthens your core and builds balance. The spa also provides various options for yoga classes. H2-Om is a class inspired by a different international or national instructor each week. Known as “meditation in motion,” Power Vinyasa burns calories while remaining in a relaxation state-of-mind. In addition, the hotel also offers one-on-one fitness classes to ensure you receive personal and customized sessions. Building the right nutrition regimen takes your fitness levels to the next step. The Standard Spa Miami encourages a nutritional balance with its Combination Cures and Health Workshops. The Nutrition and Cooking features explore new and inventive ways to change-up your daily meals inspired by international dishes. Soak your body with sweet orange and milk warm compressions to soften your skin with the Vitamin Wrap. Everyone knows massage and spa time is just as important as fitness, right? Relaxation and skin stimulants do contribute to good health. With your choice between three different types of mud formulas, the Mud Lounge consists of applying mud all over your body infused with algae that will tighten pores, expel blotchiness, clear toxins, and tone your skin. Afterwards, you can lounge on their bayside terrace as the mud sits in and works its magic. The Standard Scrub begins with a full-length bathtub dip to soften your skin and open your pores followed by a full-body scrub down using gingergrass and bamboo grass for exfoliation. Then, finish off with a “head-to-toe-rock-your-body” cleansing. One of the popular spa attractions is the Solar Circle. The spacious, green area allows for alone time with a good book, exercise, picnic, or just relaxation with friends. A special experience offered by The Standard Spa Miami is their Hamam feature. Defined as the “spreader of warmth,” it slowly raises your body temperature, allowing for de-stressing of body tensions and soreness. The segments to further your Hamam experience includes dipping into the Hamam bath, which can be filled with your choice of bath salts. The DIY Hamam Bar allows clients to enjoy Hamam their own way and own enjoyment. The Hamam White Clay Detox consists of combining Hamam with the Mud Lounge. To add bellystones to your bath, try the Turkish Hamam Rub and Scrub. After your workout and spa treatments, what better way to end the day than with a manicure and pedicure? The Standard Spa Miami uses special and earth-friendly chemicals to treat your hands and feet to a healthy revival. Photography Courtesy of THE STANDARD MIAMI SPA Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue. 

Arts, The Issue

Cirque du Soleil Partners with Spectrum Miami During Art Basel Week

By Angela Betancourt During Art Basel and Miami Art Week, Cirque Du Soleil partnered with the contemporary art show SPECTRUM Miami in the Wynwood Design District, to promote its new show Amaluna directed by Tony Award Winning Director Diane Paulus. Amaluna, will be touring around the world this year and saw Art Basel and Miami Art Week, as the perfect time and setting to launch the first performance. The show premiered to the general public on December 11, 2014 at the iconic blue and yellow Big Top at Sun Life Stadium. However, SPECTRUM attendees were privy to a sneak peak of the performance and a behind-the-scenes look at the extraordinary show. Amaluna is a story that celebrates women and femininity. It takes place on the mysterious island of Amaluna that is governed by Goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. Overcoming adversity, spiritual renewal, family, and love are all themes that play a role in the show. In true spirit of the performance, SPECTRUM “captured” a Cirque du Soleil artist, from the island of Amaluna, for the purposes of public observation. They recreated her natural habitat at the fair and dazzled guests as they witnessed the exclusive look at how the artist prepared for the show. She effortlessly moved her body from one mind blowing position into another as she demonstrated her graceful strength and control. Fair goers were also able to observe the “Crystal Goddess” and her porcelain-like disposition before she was shared with the rest of the world. SPECTRUM Miami is one of the largest shows, at 350,000 square feet, during Art Basel and Miami Art Week. Its growth and success is in part due to its reputation for incorporating these types of performances and artistic components. This partnership between Cirque du Soleil and SPECTRUM attracted thousands of visitors that wanted to see the extensive collection of art and partake in all the excitement being generated by Amaluna, while simultaneously drawing a lot of attention to some of SPECTRUM’s other exhibits. In addition to showcasing a collection of contemporary artworks from artists around the world, SPECTRUM puts a lot of emphasis on bringing in the local art community. During the fair they introduced a special curated Art Labs Series that featured educational projects and seminars by leading Miami-based art institutions. They also presented Yo Miami, a live invitational mural painting collaboration by veteran artists and up-and-comers. The fusion of these different artistic elements has made SPECTRUM a leading fair during the art-filled week and will continue to make SPECTRUM one of the most anticipated fairs for many years to come. Photography Courtesy of RED WOOD MEDIA GROUP Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Makeup & Hair, The Issue

On the Road to Miss Universe 2014

By Gisel Habibnejad As we watch the Miss Universe contestants gather on stage, it is easy to forget the hard work and determination each beauty has put into winning the prestigious honor of representing her own country. Each one has a unique and inspiring story to tell. For Jimena Espinoza, the reigning Miss Peru Universe, her strength lies within the absolute support provided by her family. Through their love and encouragement she was able to overcome childhood bullies and used it to channel the power within to achieve her ultimate dreams of modeling and competing for the prestigious title of Miss Universe. Jimena stopped by MSM’s offices for a photoshoot and a one on one interview: MSM: What inspired you to want to become Miss Peru Universe? JE: I have been inspired since my childhood as I used to watch beauty pageant competitions on television. Growing up, I really started to love the idea that I could represent my country and use my name to make positive changes in people’s lives and especially women in so many different aspects. MSM: How much preparation goes into a beauty pageant, especially for this competition? JE: There is a lot of preparation required in many areas, not only in physical appearance but nutritional, health, photography, speech, and emotional training. MSM: What is your favorite part about winning the prestigious title of Miss Peru Universe so far? JE: My favorite part is receiving the support and love of the people of my country and to use the title of Miss Peru Universe to capture the attention of different people or organizations in order to provide social assistance to those in need. It’s an enormous honor and also a huge responsibility to have the ability to hold such a prestigious crown that can open so many doors for so many good causes I feel strongly about. MSM: What separates the Peruvian culture from the rest of the world? JE: So many things separate the Peruvian culture from the rest of the world, such as our rich history as we are the birthplace of the great Inca Empire. But most commonly known is our world famous cuisine. Peru has created a name for itself in the culinary world for it’s special flavors, spices, and freshest ingredients. MSM: What is your favorite Peruvian tradition? JE: A tradition that is very close to my heart and that I still participate in, along with my loved ones, is the procession of the Lord of Miracles every October. It’s just so magical because everyone dresses in purple all month as a symbol of faith and parades around town. It’s a time when you feel united, happy, and so grateful for all the miracles in our lives. MSM: What is one beauty product you can’t leave your house without? JE: I cannot leave my house without a good sunscreen, because the most important thing is to look after your skin and protect it from the damages of the sun. It keeps you looking young and radiant. MSM: Do you have a signature makeup look? JE: Yes, I always like to keep my makeup looking as fresh and natural as possible. MSM: What is it about Miami that you love the most? JE: I like the warmth of its people and multi-cultural side, its beautiful beaches and lovely climate are an added bonus. MSM: As a child, you were bullied for being tall. How did you overcome those bullies? Do you think winning Miss Universe will help you spread awareness towards this social issue? JE: I overcame being bullied due to the love and support of my family, especially my parents. I have always had a great relationship with them and was able to speak to them openly and that really gave me the strength to overcome it. They gave me the confidence to believe in myself and to be tolerant and compassionate towards the world around me. I learned to appreciate different people and make the most of situations. My height allowed me to participate in many sports activities and later to follow my dreams of modeling. I most definitely believe that Miss Universe will help me not only spread awareness of this horrible subject but also to create support groups for other young children so they always feel like they have someone to speak to the way I was able to. The best way to do this is to tell my story and show the world that being different is not a bad thing after all. MSM: What would it mean to you to win the title of Miss Universe 2014? JE: The culmination of a dream and the beginning of new challenges, responsibilities for myself, to my country, and the world. I have no words to express the joy and pride it would mean to me. The Miss Universe Pageant will be taking place on Sunday, January 25th at Florida International University, located at 11200 Southwest 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199.   Photography by IMANI OGDEN Wardrobe by CACHE DESIGNS Makeup by ARTURO RODRIGUEZ (CHRISTIAN DIOR)   Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Culinary, The Issue

Michelle Bernstein: Girl Boss de Cuisine

By Nycole Sariol To most, she’s revered as Michelle Bernstein, James Beard Award Winning Chef and reality TV show regular. But to the voracious diners of South Florida who know her best, she goes by simply Michy. And while Bernstein has continuously wowed the nation with her deft cooking repertoire and covetable line-up of restaurants, it’s her most recent dining concept, Seagrape, showering the top toque with mass acclaim and etching yet another notch in her belt of world-class menus as of late. Taking precious time from her back-to-back schedule, we fiendishly chatted up Michelle about her newest brassier-turned-baby to hit Miami Beach’s Thompson hotel, Michy’s renovations, and how she manages to defend her title as the ultimate girl boss of the kitchen. MSM sits down with Michy to find out what she’s been up to: MSM: Let’s talk about your newest venture on the Miami Beach dining scene: Seagrape and it’s menu. What are some coveted plates that will whet our appetites there? MB: Seagrape at Thompson Miami Beach has really been an exciting project for David – my husband and business partner – and I. The menu is inspired by everything that makes Florida so wonderful like fresh seafood and beautiful produce. Some of our top-selling dishes since opening have been the Crispy Skin Florida Snapper, Braised Short Rib, Spanish Octopus a la Plancha, and the Ellensburg Lamb Chops. MSM: Seagrape is now ripe for the pickin’, having opened its doors late last month. What’s the crowd been like? Garnering any local love, or has it all been the jet-setting type? Reveal. MB: We’re thrilled that we’ve had such a successful opening. During Art Basel we were slammed with visitors in town as well as locals who were out and about checking out all of the fun events. We see a little bit of everything being on Collins, we love all of our guests and are happy to warmly welcome them! MSM: What of Michy’s? It’s temporarily closed due to its face-lift-heard-round-the-world. What sort of face-lifts are we talking about: drastic Joan Rivers style, or subtle like Christie Brinkley? There’s a difference. MB: Joan Rivers if she had fixed her feet up! It’s a new kitchen for me, new dining room for my husband and guests; new pipes, new walls, new everything! MSM: Random question time: Isn’t it ironic how society has always pegged women as laborers in the kitchen, yet men arguably have been recognized for dominating the modern- day culinary scene as Chefs de Cuisine? What’s it like being a woman cooking in a man’s kitchen? MB: I can’t speak for other women in the industry. The ratio of women I’ve seen in culinary schools is around 50%, but the actual percentage that becomes or remains a chef is pretty low. MSM: Speaking of being a lady within a testosterone driven industry: you’ve been knighted with a James Beard Award for Best Chef in South Florida; judged and mentored on Bravo’s Top Chef; and come on, how could we forget that one time when you slayed Bobby Flay on Iron Chef – truly a wonder to behold. What is the impetus behind such vociferous success? What’s your next plan of attack? MB: I figure its 50% luck and 50% good timing! I am driven, passionate and very, very disciplined but if it weren’t for my family and my amazing staff I wouldn’t be very successful! Photography Courtesy of THOMPSON MIAMI BEACH   Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.

Culinary, The Issue

TK’s at the Villa Mayfair: Beyond Your Taste Buds

By Gisel Habibnejad TK’s at the Villa Mayfair, a new restaurant in Coconut Grove, offers an abundance of creations and experiences suited to the guests’ desired needs. TK’s stays true to its reputation by taking the ordinary and making it extraordinary in every aspect, such as menu items and dining experience. Diners will always find entertainment – whether it is indulging in palette pleasing dishes, ordering drinks with a side of mixology lessons, or enjoying a chat with the head chef. Starting with the exclusive Mojito Madness menu, cocktail connoisseurs will never again look at another mojito the same. The menu consists of twenty different concoctions. For the chocolate lover, the Chocolate Mint Mojito is comprised of ron botran, chocolate syrup, crème de menthe, lime juice, and mojito mint. One of the most unique flavors, the Chipotle Cacao Mojito, is perfectly mixed with ron botran, crème de cacao white, fresh chili, lime juice, and mojito mint. Without a doubt, the main attraction of the restaurant is the Chef’s Tasting Table. The four-course meal menu was carefully chosen centered around the chef and crowd favorites – all condensed into a night of bliss. Among the appetizers, the Tuna Tartare presents diced tuna in sesame oil and soy lime dressing combined with avocado and sprinkled with crispy shallots. A choice of entrée, the Spice Rubbed Bison Sirloin, combines white cheddar grits and crisp onion drizzled with a hot sauce to add an exquisite flavor to the already delicious sirloin. As for the jaw-dropping dessert options, the Peanut Butter Mousse pleases diners with a chocolate sauce, caramelized banana, and vanilla ice cream. While consumers enjoy their meals, Bar Master David Ungar, provides entertainment with his mixology presentation of TK’s Classic Mojito. To add greater enjoyment to the overall experience, head chef and Miami native, Chef Maribel Gaynor steps out of the kitchen between meals and joins her diners to discuss favorite foods and answer questions. Talk about a true chef’s tasting table experience! TK’s has also taken a favorite Miami Sunday pastime a step further with Benedict Maniac. Start your day off right by indulging in one of their eleven different styles of signature brunch benedict plates. Each dish commences with the same foundation of two poached eggs on a toasted English muffin, topped with Hollandaise sauce and served with seasoned breakfast potatoes. Next, each benedict adds different ingredients particular to the Benedict Maniac of your choice. Selections include: Bacon Benedict, Italian Benedict, and Crab Cake Benedict. The search for a unique and intimate dining experience is what attracts guests to TK’s at the Villa Mayfair. The perfectly detailed interior decorating, friendly staff, never-ending entertainment, and most importantly the Asian American finesse and Latin cuisine tailored to your needs is what keeps customers coming back. Photography by IMANI OGDEN Click here to view the post on the January/February 2015 issue. 

Fashion, The Issue

Paul Andrew at Capretto Shoes

By Katie Jackson  Miami heel addicts received a very special treat when CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner Paul Andrew made an in-store appearance at Capretto Shoes during Art Basel. The beloved South Miami shoe boutique was filled with adoring guests who were able to mingle with, and even receive a quick shoe fitting from, the famous footwear and accessory designer. The British born and now US-based designer certainly has a lot to celebrate. Launching his eponymous line of luxury women’s shoes in Spring 2013, and becoming the first shoe designer to win the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, complete with $300,000 and mentoring from some of the most powerful influencers in the industry, Andrew is definitely a rising force. But after perusing Andrew’s latest collection, it is extremely evident why the designer is so successful. Receiving inspiration from a Henri Matisse exhibit called The Cut Outs at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Andrew’s Spring 2015 collection focuses on the juxtaposition of elegant patterns, bright hues, and intriguing cuts. “The idea of layering different textures and materials with matte and shine and different colorations, that’s really the inspiration behind this season,” says Andrew. While it is clear that the appearance of Andrew’s collection is supremely alluring, the design element of his shoes is even more so. Using only the finest manufacturing in Italy in addition to superior materials, Andrew creates shoes that are the epitome of style and luxury. “What I am aiming to do is create the most comfortable but sexy shoe in the market. I did an amazing survey with about 500 different women internationally to understand what is the fit of now. The arch is a very different shape, there is a lot more padding in the insole, so you sort of sink into this cushion, and the heel is positioned in a very specific place.” Though Andrew has traveled to many places across the globe, this is his first time visiting Miami. After arriving late in the evening the night before his Capretto appearance, Andrew says with enthusiasm that he has already fallen in love with the Magic City. “I love the vibe here. It’s a totally different feeling than New York, and I’m really happy to be here.” Photography Courtesy of WORLD RED EYE Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.  

Fashion, Shows & Events, The Issue

Celebrating DVF’s The Woman I Wanted to Be

By Katie Jackson Many wish they could peek into the minds of those who have found true happiness and success, hoping to come to understand the pathway in which they earned their desired goals. But to be offered a glimpse into the life of a woman who is not only brilliantly successful and heavily admired, but is also kind, genuine, and immensely passionate, is a true rarity. Diane von Furstenberg gave those who not only adore her designs, but those who adore and admire her, the chance to understand exactly how she became the woman she wanted to be. Even better, the legendary designer made sure to come and celebrate her tome during Art Basel right here in the Magic City. In her memoir, the woman responsible for creating the beloved wrap dress delves into detail about her journey to becoming one of the most respected forces in the fashion industry. Included in The Woman I Wanted to Be are also intimate details about von Furstenberg’s love life, children, how she overcame cancer, and her feelings about aging. “In a sense I feel more beautiful than I have ever felt because my life is full, my children and grandchildren are my pride, and so is the body of my work. I have traveled the world, seen so much beauty in nature, met so many people. I cannot pretend that I am younger than I am, and truly I feel that I have lived so fully that I should be twice my age.” Already a best seller, The Woman I Wanted to Be has garnered an extensive amount of attention. And despite her busy schedule—shooting her “E!” reality show “House of DVF” included—von Furstenberg headed to Miami during Art Basel to celebrate with those who fell in love with her story. With cameras in tow, the designer made a stop at Books & Books in Bal Harbour Shops on December 2nd for a discussion led by entertainment journalist Ana Remos. The very next night, von Furstenberg signed copies of her book in her Aventura Mall boutique. Packed to the brim, the designer’s pop up was filled with attendees sipping champagne and enjoying hors de ‘oeuvres while patiently waiting to have a moment with the legend. With The Woman I Wanted to Be, readers will walk away with truly remarkable wisdom from the woman who not only created an empire, but also created a platform that truly empowers women everywhere. Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.  

Beauty, Events, Makeup & Hair, The Issue

The Nordstrom Beauty Trend Show Amps Your Beauty Style

By Gisel Habibnejad On December 13th, a huge crowd gathered outside awaiting the doors to open at 8am for Nordstrom Merrick Park. Why would women across Miami wake up so early on a Saturday? The annual Nordstrom Beauty Trend Show, of course! Seats filled up quickly as everyone anxiously anticipated for the fashion show to begin. The beauty trend show opened with the lively and hilarious host, Nordstrom Beauty Director, Gilbert Vera. Soon after, beautiful models strutted down the runway with designer clothes ranging from Mara Hoffman, Clover Canyon, and Rebecca Taylor. These outfits centered on the Velvet Berry Lip beauty trend. The fall trend continues to grow in popularity as seen on celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Emma Watson, and Jessica Alba. The most notable of colors was MAC’s Pro Lipstick in Sin ($16) as seen on the cover photo for the event. Geir Ness, creator of Laila perfume – the essence of Norway, also made a special appearance to speak about the unique scent and gift set ($99) and spritz the floral scent across the audience. For the next segment of the beauty show, models showed-off their night eye shadow shades. Makeup brands included Trish McEvoy and Lancôme. The crowd favorite was easily the 5-Colour Eyeshadow Palette ($60) by Dior. The collection includes 11 different color combination palettes to choose from, all containing soft shades allowing for an easy day-to-night transition. Also seen on the models was Yves Saint Laurent’s Fusion Ink Foundation SPF 18 ($60). The lightweight formula was voted #1 by nationwide magazines and can be considered as the “freedom foundation” as it is ideal to prevent that cakey-makeup look. The models were adorned with Diane von Furstenberg, Kate Spade, and Just Cavalli. The last fall beauty trend showcased was sparkling accents. The beautiful makeup looks were the picture-perfect pop of detail for the fabulous outfits sported by the models. Designer brands included Vince Camuto, Helmut Lang, and Philip Lim. The most attention-grabbing item of all was the My Burberry Eau de Parfum ($95) now sold at Nordstrom Merrick Park Burberry beauty counter. The beautiful bottle is tied with an iconic trench coat inspired bow around the top. After the fantastic beauty show, attendees enjoyed the rest of their day at the beauty counters receiving free makeovers from brands such as Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and Anastasia Beverly Hills – among the many others. Throughout the day, Nordstrom Beauty Stylists assisted event goers by handpicking the best makeup customized to their desired preferences. Beauty Stylist Juan Reyes shared his favorite brands and must-haves of the season. For cleansing and toning, his go-to product is La Prairie’s Cellular Cleansing Water for eyes and face ($90). With one wash, the product cleans all traces of makeup – without the use of water. In addition, you will immediately see improvement in your skin as you begin your path to anti-aging; healthy skin is always in-style. Juan also recommended the Tom Ford Perfume Sampler Collection sold only at Nordstrom Merrick Park. The sampler includes scents such as, Oud Wood and Jasmin Rouge for men and women, respectively. For all things beauty and fashion, it’s safe to say Nordstrom Merrick Park has the essentials to take care of every beauty need by all the best brands and stylists. Photography by Alicia Palma Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.   

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