Miami Shoot

Katie Jackson

Fashion, Interviews, Luxury, The Issue

Jason of Beverly Hills Opens in the Miami Design District

By Katie Jackson Photography by World Red Eye Since 2002, Jason of Beverly Hills has become the go-to luxury jeweler among Hollywood’s elite. In providing diamond pieces that push limits while also maintaining opulent glamour, the brand has attracted high-profile clients including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Matthew McConaughey and MSM’s July/August cover model Joanna Krupa. Owner Jason Arasheben has expanded his popular brand from the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, to upscale locations in major cities including the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the Ritz-Carlton in Charlotte, North Carolina, and now in the heart of the Miami Design District. What began as an appointment-only diamond jeweler quickly grew into a multi-billion dollar operation. “We would design something specific to somebody’s personal style and image, so the DNA of the brand is custom pieces,” said Arasheben. “Then we kind of transcended into building collections.” Drawing inspiration from nature, architecture, fashion, and even cars, the brand’s collections are anything but ordinary. “We like to think out of the box and we like to be eccentric,” said Arasheben. “I always say that this is not your grandmother’s jewelry. If I make a piece and my mother hates it, I say okay, this is perfect.” The brand recently drew attention with their ADDICTED collection, featuring pieces like diamond encrusted pill pendants and syringe rings. “Everyone has an addiction to something,” said Arasheben. “This is an addiction to diamonds.” Though controversial, the collection has become a favorite among notable celebrities. “Rihanna, Katy Perry, and Lindsay Lohan have all purchased pieces from the ADDICTED collection,” said Arasheben. As for the fourth flagship location, Arasheben is thrilled to bring Jason of Beverly Hills to Miami. “The great thing about Miami is that the culture and vibe of the city is very much in line with the identity of our brand,” said Arasheben. “There’s a strong nightlife, people like to have fun, and there are a lot of South Americans who are big fans of our brand, so it was really the perfect alignment.” Jason of Beverly Hills is located at 140 NE 39th St, Miami, FL 33137 For more information on Jason of Beverly Hills, please visit www.jasonofbh.com Click here to view this post in our September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Fashion, MSM Online, Swimwear

Miami Swim Week 2015: Keva J Swimwear Debuts The Nile Collection at the Ritz-Carlton South Beach

By Katie Jackson Keva J Swimwear, a favorite among celebrities like the Kardashians, presented “The Nile Collection” at an invitation-only poolside soiree at the Ritz-Carlton South Beach on Saturday afternoon. Inspired by African safaris and Egyptian glamour, Keva J’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection provided bright and bold hues with tropical motifs. The colorful swimwear was perfectly accessorized with earrings from Laruicci and the latest pumps from Steve Madden. Attendees sipped specialty summer cocktails provided by D’USSE while enjoying the showcase.

Fashion, MSM Online, Swimwear

Miami Swim Week 2015: DIJANA Swim Fashion Show at the Bass Museum of Art

By Katie Jackson Friday evening was a night of firsts for both DIJANA Swim and the Bass Museum of Art. The contemporary art museum hosted its first swimwear showcase during Miami Swim Week, while DIJANA Swim debuted their line. Designer Dijana Molina launched her eponymous swimwear line to create a collection that accommodates any woman’s mood or experience. Attendees were able to view the entire 2016 summer collection, which provides staple pieces in an abundance of colors and patterns. The collection, inspired by symmetry, sensuality, and beauty, also includes a variety of chic beach cover-ups. The DIJANA Swim Fashion Show was the last show to take place at the Bass Museum before it closes for renovations.

AroundTown, Fashion, MSM Online

Fashion for Breakfast: Fashion Meets Philanthropy

By Katie Jackson In the latest Fashion for Breakfast series—held at the swank Cecconi’s restaurant at Soho Beach House—President and Founder of Style Saves Rachael Russell (featured in MSM’s July/August issue!) moderated a conversation with hosts iShine365, Goêt, AURate New York, and Gee Beauty. Style Saves is a non-profit organization that raises funds in order to provide back-to-school clothing necessities for in-need children. Russell’s annual Style Saves Swim fashion show fundraiser will take place this Friday at the Miami Beach Edition in which each of the hosts, in addition to Regine Chevallier, Jaimie Nicole Jewelry, and Kai Lani, will participate. During last Friday’s Fashion for Breakfast, Russell asked each host to discuss the foundation of their brands, what trends they love for the summer season, and what philanthropy means to them. The discussion allowed attendees to learn about the hosts on a deeper and more personal level. After the discussion, attendees were able to peruse Goêt’s latest eyewear collection, AURate’s luxury jewelry designs, and have their makeup touched up by the founders of Gee Beauty. For more information on Style Saves Swim or to purchase a ticket, visit stylesaves.org

Fashion, Interviews, The Issue

Rachael Russell

MIAMI’S RESIDENTIAL IT GIRL AND GO-TO WARDROBE STYLIST TALKS FASHION AND PHILANTHROPY. By Katie Jackson Photographed by Imani Ogden Hair & Makeup by Tamia Everett for TamiaStyles Location: MSM Studios Wardrobe stylist Rachael Russell certainly has an impressive résumé. Over the past few years, Russell has quickly become the go-to stylist for celebrities such as Lindsay Lohan, Gabrielle Union, Chayanne, and Kathy Lee Gifford. Russell has also styled for national commercial shoots and campaigns, including the recent launch of Anheuser-Busch’s latest creation Oculto and worldwide footwear and apparel brand Nike. In addition to her styling projects, Russell is a creative consultant for Miansai, the popular Miami-based handmade accessories brand. But perhaps Russell’s greatest achievement has been the launch of her non-profi t organization Style Saves, a charity that provides underprivileged children with back-to-school clothing. Within the last five years, Style Saves has expanded from Miami to cities across the globe, making Russell the leader of an organization that is truly making an enormous impact. Growing up in Providence, Rhode Island, Russell’s love affair with styling started at a very young age. “The first time I remember picking out my own outfi t was my fiJorst day of Kindergarten,” said Russell. “I’d say it all started then.” After earning her B.A. in marketing from Johnson & Wales University, Russell moved to Miami to study fashion merchandising at Miami International University of Art & Design. At MIU, Russell had the opportunity to study fashion styling abroad in Milan at the prestigious Domus Academy, where some of her acclaimed professors included editors from Vanity Fair and stylists from Grazia magazine. After graduating from MIU, Russell landed a coveted assistant stylist position with Vogue magazine before moving back to Miami where she styled independently. Russell is now represented by Ford Models as a Talent Artist. While she has always had a passion for styling, Russell also had the desire to become involved with philanthropy. “I was always interested in giving back but never really felt connected with a cause,” said Russell. After visiting her family in Rhode Island and taking her two younger brothers back-to-school shopping, Russell realized that she wanted to combine fashion and philanthropy in a way that positively benefi ted children. “After taking my brothers back-to-school shopping, I saw how excited they got, and then reminisced about my own experiences and how fun it was to put together outfi ts for back-to-school,” said Russell. “I realized that not every student is afforded this opportunity, and I was inspired to create something that gives them a chance to have the clothing necessities for school.” Russell created Style Saves in 2010, and has since provided thousands of in-need children with back-to-school essentials by raising funds through fashion-focused events. In collaboration with different brands and other Miami philanthropists, Russell hosts events where portions of the proceeds go to Style Saves. “Some of the events we’ve done recently have been in store events with 7 For All Mankind, Vince, and InStyle magazine at Longchamp,” said Russell. “Additional events include our arsa Pippen Basel Brunch at Fendi Château Residences and Art Heist in Wynwood.” But perhaps the biggest event is the annual Style Saves Swim Fashion Show Fundraiser at the Soho Beach House in July. “This year will be our 5th annual swim show production,” said Russell. “We bring together a mix of upcoming and well-established designers for a night of fashion for philanthropy. We also work with other amazing sponsors like Redbull, Moët, and Perrier, to name a few.” Though she finds her styling work rewarding, Russell admits that there is no greater feeling than helping others. “I really love to give stuff away and live for those Oprah moments of ‘you get clothing, you get eyewear,’” said Russell. “It feels so good to make other people happy.” To volunteer, make a donation, or for more information about Style Saves, visit www.stylesaves.org For more information on Rachael Russell, please visit www.Stylerr.com Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view our online issue.

Fashion, Interviews, The Issue

Rachel Roy Launches Spring 2015 Collection

By Katie Jackson Photography Courtesy of Rachel Roy Fashion designer Rachel Roy has been creating some of the most coveted women’s collections for the past decade. Roy’s Spring 2015 RACHEL Rachel Roy collection was inspired by the designer’s travels. “I try to look at places that I’ve been or places that I want to go, and then try to bring some of that into my customers’ lives,” said Roy. “I even try to put it in prints and hopefully inspire them to fi ll up their passports.” The spring collection embodies the look and feel of tropical destinations and incorporates bright and bold fl oral prints while also including classic closet staples. “I tried to put the prints into things like a maxi dress, where you can have fun,” said Roy. “And then keep the blazers a little more neutral so that they can mix and match.” But perhaps what is even more spectacular about Roy’s Spring 2015 collection is the additional launch of Self Rule, her women’s empowerment campaign that celebrates and promotes individuality and aims to continuously remind women that power comes from within. “Self Rule comes from the idea that when you have self-love and self-respect, you get to the point where you can really start to live your own life,” said Roy. The designer hopes that Self Rule will inspire women to take total control of their destinies. “When you have that self-love and self-respect, then you are aware of every decision you make. I tell my fi fteen year-old daughter to have fun, and I do want her to have fun at social events and parties, but I just want her to make smart choices,” said Roy. “It comes with life and living and when I have a journey that teaches me something I want to teach it to my customers.” Roy has been traveling to different Macy’s department stores in cities across the country to launch her latest collection and Self Rule, while also choosing to benefi t women’s philanthropic organizations at each destination. During her appearance at Macy’s in Dadeland Mall in Miami, Roy chose to benefit the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade, an organization that strives to create equal opportunities for women through raising and donating funds. “We advocate for women’s issues such as domestic violence, human trafficking, economic security, and health,” said Marilyn March, Executive Director of the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade. Grantees from the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade were able to join Roy for breakfast on Miami Beach before being personally styled by the designer in her latest collection. “We are overwhelmed with joy and feel very blessed for the opportunity to be part of this,” said March. Like all of Roy’s on-going Macy’s appearances, Miami was a complete success. Twenty percent of the event’s proceeds went to the Women’s Fund Miami-Dade, and the grantees that were styled were able to keep all of the clothing and accessories. “This is what truly gives me the most joy in life,” said Roy. For more information on Rachel Roy’s SS15 Collection or Self Rule, please visit www.RachelRoy.com Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view the online issue.

Fashion, Interviews, Swimwear, The Issue

One-On-One with L*Space™ Founder & Creative Director Monica Wise

By Katie Jackson Photography Courtesy of L*Space™ L*Space has been known as the popular fashion-forward swimwear line seen on beaches and at poolside parties around the world for the past decade. Founder and Creative Director Monica Wise brought the beloved swimwear brand to life hoping to not only provide stylish, high-quality bathing suits and cover-ups, but to also make her customers feel fabulous in what they are wearing while playing in the sun. We sat down with Wise to discuss the beginnings of her brand, the inspiration behind her 2016 collection, what she thought about Joanna Krupa falling in love with her designs, and more. MSM: What influenced you to become a swimwear designer?Monica Wise: I’ve always had a love for the warmer months. Growing up in the Midwest, I became tired of the brutal winters and would escape off to Florida’s beaches whenever I had the chance. As soon as I could, I moved out of Ohio to the warm beaches of Florida and developed a love affair with the inspiring local culture of tanned and toned bodies. MSM: Why the name L*Space? MW: I found that everything that was important to me personally and professionally seemed to start with the letter L (Love, Laughter, Living, Lounging). I was searching for the missing L’s in my life and creating my “L” space. MSM: Tell us about the inspiration behind your 2016 collection. MW: My “L” this season is inspired by our LOVE to explore exotic parts of the world that are rich in culture. This collection is filled with bold ethnic prints, barely there shades and nontraditional color mixing. Spring 2016 is all about the destinations that truly move you – about the places you’ve never been but want to go. MSM: What are some of the most important lessons you have learned as owner and creative director of L*Space and why? MW: It’s important to listen to your customers – make sure you’re delivering what they want and not what you prefer. It’s also so important to stay passionate about whatever it is you choose to do – the minute the passion is lost you might as well throw in the towel. MSM: What advice would you provide aspiring designers? MW: Deliver product that is different, compelling, and special. Also, quality, quality, quality – without quality you have nothing. MSM: Joanna Krupa loved wearing and modeling your swimwear design on Miami Shoot Magazine’s cover. How does it feel to have an international supermodel absolutely love your designs? MW: With so many choices of bikini collections, I’m honored she loves our brand. I love seeing my swimwear worn by women who exude style and confidence – Joanna is the epitome of an L*Space customer. For more information on L*Space or to purchase designs, please visit www.LSpace.com Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view our online issue.

Cover Stories, Entertainment, Fashion, Interviews, Swimwear, The Issue

JOANNA KRUPA

SUPERMODEL JOANNA KRUPA PROVES BEAUTY IS MORE THAN SKIN DEEP Interviewed By Katie Jackson Photographed by Alessandra Fiorini Hair & Makeup by Tony Yates Styled by Katie Jackson Set Assistant: Nycole Sariol Location: 1100 Millecento Brickell Most know Joanna Krupa as the mega successful supermodel who has graced the covers of major publications including Maxim, Cosmopolitan, and Glamour, or as the star of the hit reality television shows Dancing with the Stars and The Real Housewives of Miami. But the Polish-American beauty’s success goes far beyond her glamorous glossy magazine covers and stints on TV. Krupa is leading a powerful movement against animal cruelty, actively protesting the injustice that happens to innocent animals every day. In providing care for abandoned animals through her organization Angels for Animal Rescue, participating in campaigns for PETA, and blasting animal cruelty on her social media accounts, Krupa has helped save thousands of animals’ lives. To this day, Krupa lives and breathes her beliefs, making her not only an icon in the fashion industry, but also an example of how to relentlessly stand up for a cause in which you truly believe. Born in Warsaw, Poland, Krupa moved to the United States at a young age and worked her way up to becoming one of the most successful supermodels. After landing high-profi le spreads in magazines and roles in multiple movies and television shows, Krupa was approached to become a part of the cast of The Real Housewives of Miami, a reality television show surrounding the lives of several glamorous women living in the Magic City. The show highlighted Krupa’s relationship with now husband and Mynt Lounge owner Romain Zago, airing their nuptials on the Season 3 finale. Through the series, Krupa has remained friends with a few of the RHOM cast members, including Miami’s go-to celebrity dentist Karent Sierra. “One of the best things that came out of the show was my friendship with Karent,” said Krupa. “She is one of my closest friends.” Since the show’s last season, Krupa has been enjoying being a newlywed while also maintaining a busy career schedule and traveling back and forth between her homes in Miami and Los Angeles. Most of Krupa’s projects are based in L.A., while Zago’s are in Miami. Though she admits that living a bi-coastal lifestyle provides its diffi culties, Krupa says it is crucial to maintaining both her career and a healthy marriage with Zago. “We make it work because we have no other choice,” said Krupa. “Neither one of us want to give up our careers. But when we are ready to start a family we will have to be based in one city when our kids start school.” In addition to her marriage and career, Krupa has made animal activism an immensely important priority in her life. Always an animal lover, Krupa realized the horrific cruelty millions of animals experience after watching a PETA—People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals—video. “I saw the way animals are skinned alive for their fur, and I had to do something,” said Krupa. “I had to help spread awareness and be a voice for the voiceless and defenseless. I decided to dedicate my life to do whatever I possibly could to spread the message on all types of animal cruelty until the day that I die.” Krupa began participating in PETA campaigns, bringing worldwide attention to animal cruelty and the anti-fur movement. After becoming one of PETA’s most successful models, Krupa led animal cruelty protests before deciding to create her own non-profit organization Angels for Animal Rescue. “There are so many big organizations out there where you don’t know exactly where the money is going,” said Krupa. “So I wanted to open my own organization where I know that one hundred percent of the money is going to the animals.” While Krupa’s organization is small—it is run solely by Krupa, her rescue partner Gabi Gutierrez, and sister Marta—Angels for Animal Rescue has been responsible for saving thousands of animals’ lives. “We rescue all kinds of animals including cats, dogs, rabbits, pigs, chickens, etc.,” said Krupa. “But since we don’t have our own facility we rely on donations and fosters to grow our rescue efforts so we can keep saving lives.” But Krupa’s animal activism does not end there. Krupa has also spoken out against animal testing, and even decided to create her own cruelty-free skincare line, Cellogica. “I wanted products that really work and that aren’t tested on animals,” said Krupa. “There is no reason at all to test on poor, innocent animals for products.” Cellogica uses natural ingredients to reverse the signs of ageing at the cellular level. “There is a day cream and a night cream, and they both do their individual magic which makes them a great team.” As far as her successful modeling and TV career, Krupa will soon be jetting off to her homeland for Season 5 of Poland’s Next Top Model, and then head back to L.A. to shoot a movie where she—very fittingly—will play an animal activist. But no matter what prominent project Krupa takes on, it is evident that she models so much more than the latest chic fashions and sultry swimwear. To get involved with Angels for Animal Rescue, please visit www.angelsforanimalrescue.org Click here to view our online issue. Click here to view this post in our July/August digital issue.

Digital Edition, Fashion, The Issue

Ted Baker: Spring/Summer 2015 Collection

By Katie Jackson Photography Courtesy of Ted Baker Womenswear: Lighthearted Whimsy Ted Baker’s womenswear collection embodies everything that is hot this season. Appropriately named “Pinch Me,” the Spring/Summer 2015 collection looks as if it is something out of a dream. Incorporating colorful bursts of bold prints on strong textured fabrics, while also including pieces with softer hues and delicate floral detailing, Ted Baker created the ultimate collection for any wardrobe preference. Make a bold statement during a night out in the MIRCANA tropical toucan maxi dress ($425) or strut to the office in the perfectly understated yet detailed DHIAA waffle suit jacket ($395). Perhaps one of the collection’s most whimsical pieces, FINDON, a nude pink embellished floral tunic dress ($375) can be worn anywhere from a daytime party into the night. The “Pinch Me” women’s accessories are equally lust-worthy. The collection offers a selection of chic clutches, like the KALA cut out leather clutch ($220), stylish totes, and shopper bags. Take any outfit to the next level with the KYUAND ankle strap sandals ($150) and even give your phone an update with the CALER pure peony iPhone 6 case ($50). Whether you are looking for the perfect ensemble for an upcoming party, or a statement piece to bring a fresh new look to your spring or summer wardrobe, Ted Baker’s latest collection is perfect for any occasion.   Menswear: Bold Sophistication Ted Baker’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection did not leave all the whimsy to the womenswear. The men’s “Pinch Me” collection also includes a combination of bold and delicate pieces, but with an emphasis on striking details using this season’s biggest trends. Each menswear piece creates a serious statement using different patterns, like the SWEETJK floral jacquard blazer ($1,648) and the DRYVER checked wool blazer ($625). For the man ready for an update with classic sophistication, the nature-inspired long-sleeved and short-sleeved button downs with matching skinny ties offer the perfect style-meets-sophistication look. Graphic T-shirts such as the TALATON printed T-shirt ($75) are also offered in abundane, as well as the classic oxford polo. If formal wear is desired, look no further than the suits infused with pinks, pastel mints, and sky blues. The added flair of brightly colored ties and pocket squares will put the finishing touches on an already eye-catching look. The menswear collection also provides men’s shoes, such as the CHORPRI printed derby brogues ($260) and accessories that make a statement all their own. The latest Ted Baker menswear collection truly looks as if it is something out of this world, or as the collection’s campaign proclaims, “all is not as it seams.”   To shop the Ted Baker SS15 womenswear collection, please visit www.tedbaker.com To shop the Ted Baker SS15 menswear collection, please visit www.tedbaker.com

Arts, Culture, Fashion, MSM Online, Shows & Events

Max Mara Miami Design District Exhibits Iconic Dogs in Coats

By Katie Jackson Last night, Miamians gathered in the Miami Design District to celebrate the arrival of MAISON&OBJET, an organization that aims to offer trade fairs and events for professionals dedicated to lifestyle decoration and design. In support of the MAISON&OBJET event, the Max Mara Miami Design District boutique gave a special exhibition of photographer William Legman’s Dogs in Coats. The Max Mara Design District location is the first location to exhibit the famous traveling photography series that features images of Weimaraners in signature Max Mara 10801 coats. Shoppers enjoyed the iconic exhibit while sipping complimentary cocktails. To see the Dogs in Coats exhibition, visit the Max Mara Design District boutique at 106 NE 39th Street, Suite 103, Miami, Florida 33137

Digital Edition, Fashion, MSM Online, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle – Craig Robbins – The Design District – Miami’s It Destination

By Katie Jackson Opening Image Photographed by Alex Medina With some of the most innovative fashion houses, art, restaurants, and architectural masterpieces, it is no wonder why Miamians are flocking to the Design District. But the flourishing area was not always so popular. Fifteen years ago, Craig Robins, CEO and President of the inventive real estate company Dacra, saw potential for the once neglected area. In partnering with global real estate and investment fund L Real Estate, Robins completely recreated the District into an artistic haven. “When we set out to revitalize and reinvent the District, our goal was to cultivate an atmosphere where creativity could flourish, regardless of its specific label or medium,” says Robins. Now dedicated to providing the ultimate fashion, dining, art, and design experience wrapped in architectural ingenuity, the MiamiDesign District is the absolute go-to destination for all Miami visitors and locals.   SARTORIAL: REFINED MEN’S LUXURY SARTORIAL, a store offering a personalized luxury shopping experience for the sophisticated man, recently opened its doors to the Miami Design District. SARTORIAL owners and sisters Tamara and Julia Medvedeva are thrilled to open a location in the burgeoning District. “We love the up-and-coming atmosphere and believe that SARTORIAL will also add to the fresh, high-end vibe of the Design District,” says Tamara. In carrying over twenty different upscale men’s brands, as well as featuring a shoe salon and private made-to-measure area for custom suits, the SARTORIAL Miami Design District location will do more than fulfill any man’s luxury needs. Visit the SARTORIAL Miami Design District location at 111 NE 40th Street Miami, Florida 33137 HUBLOT: THE ART OF FUSION The Hublot Miami Design District location is unlike any other. Instead of a boutique, the Design District location is the first ever Hublot Galerie, which will showcase only exclusive, limited edition watches. The Hublot Galerie is ideal for the customer looking for a very rare, one-of-a-kind piece. In addition to offering an exceptional shopping experience, customers can expect to attend charitable events held by the Hublot Galerie. Through their partnerships with Ferrari, the Miami Heat, and Hublot ambassador Dwyane Wade, the Hublot Galerie will host a series of exciting upcoming events customers will not want to miss. Visit the Hublot Miami Design District location at 140 NE 39th Street Suite 103, Miami, Florida 33137 MAX MARA: TIMELESS ELEGANCE The popular Italian women’s brand has opened an exquisite location in the Miami Design District. Maria Giulia Maramotti, the U.S. Max Mara retail director and granddaughter of founder Achille Maramotti, thinks the new location is an ideal place for the women’s ready-to-wear collection. “The Miami Design District is an organic home for our newest retail space because it symbolizes our fundamental brand value of supporting the arts,” says Maramotti. The posh boutique has already held events in partnership with the National YoungArts Foundation, and hopes to continue hosting events throughout the year. “We will be joining forces with DASH alongside YoungArts to celebrate DASH’s Annual Fashion Show in May,” says Maramotti. “Both the YoungArts Foundation and DASH partnerships are especially meaningful because they continue our commitment to cultivating young, talented artists and designers.” Visit the Max Mara Miami Design District location at 106 NE 39th Street Suite 103, Miami, Florida 33137 LANVIN: FRENCH BLISS Lanvin, a favorite fashion house among Hollywood’s most elite, has opened a temporary location in the Miami Design District. The two-story permanent boutique, opening later this spring, will be located at 107th NE 39th St., next to Tom Ford and across from Tiffany & Co. and Givenchy. However, the temporary location still offers customers the true Lanvin experience, carrying traditional, elegantly handcrafted French luxury. Both women’s and men’s ready-to-wear collections are available, as well an eclectic selection of accessories. Visit the temporary Lanvin Miami Design District location at 150 NE 40th Street Miami, Florida 33137 VALENTINO: TRADITION MEETS INNOVATION Standing at two-stories high, the Valentino Miami Design District location perfectly represents the fashion house’s latest vision: mixing tradition with modernity. Carrying the newest brightly colored designs, such as the Multicolor Espadrilles and Rockstud 1973 Cross Body, the boutique’s selections scream “Miami.” To ensure that the colored pieces stand out, the boutique’s floors and walls were covered in grey Venetian terrazzo. Of course, Valentino’s coveted classic women’s ready-to-wear styles are also available to customers wishing to don impeccable Italian designs.   Visit the Valentino Miami Design District Location at 140 NE 39th Street Miami, Florida 33137

Digital Edition, Fashion, Interviews, The Issue

Victoria Rafaeli: A Style Star is Born

By Katie Jackson Photographed by Danielle Margherite Victoria Rafaeli has certainly taken the blogosphere by storm. Launching her fashion blog “Victoria’s Vision” a mere three months ago, the professional photographer and former Big Brother Season 16 contestant has already accumulated hundreds of thousands of loyal readers eagerly awaiting her next post. For Rafaeli, style was always a passion, but with the exposure of Big Brother, Rafaeli was given a platform to launch one of the most successful fashion blogs in Miami, and in the country. After leaving Big Brother, Rafaeli received numerous letters from fans asking about her style. “They would ask me about specific outfits they took pictures of while I was on the show, and how they can recreate the look based on their body type,” says Rafaeli. After receiving such a large amount of style inquiries, Rafaeli decided to create a place where all of her fans could go and learn how to mimic her personal style. “I knew I had to share my passion and vision of fashion with the world and I welcomed ‘Victoria’s Vision!’” Three months later, Rafaeli’s blog became a bona fide brand. With beautifully curated personal style and beauty posts, as well as the occasional inside look at Miami’s premier lifestyle scene, it’s clearly evident why Rafaeli is such a hot commodity. But Rafaeli attributes every bit of her success to her readers. “I feel so blessed to have such loyal fans and supportive followers on social media. I’m happy that I get to share my passion with them every single day and am so thankful to see they appreciate what I do! They really keep me going every day.” Apart from blogging, Rafaeli also runs her own successful photography company, Victoria Rafaeli Photography, where she takes professional photographs for weddings and formal portraits. Starting the company at just 19 years old, Rafaeli adores creating lasting memories for her clients. “Capturing laughter, tears of happiness, or just pure love, that’s my job! And to see the joy on my clients’ faces when they see that image, that feeling is everything!” When she isn’t working, Rafaeli enjoys shopping and people watching in Miami Beach. “I personally love going to Lincoln Road to see all of the beautiful tourists who arrive here from all over the world,” says Rafaeli. “They really do inspire me to shop and I enjoy being surrounded by so many people from different cultures.” Rafaeli also likes to hangout in Brickell. “It’s always a fun place to mingle and get inspired by young professionals in different fields.” With the future of “Victoria’s Vision” looking very promising, readers can expect to see posts on Rafaeli’s favorite spring and summer trends, including head-to-toe white looks and backless maxi dresses. “A maxi is so timeless and comfortable, yet looks so chic,” says Rafaeli. Miami readers can also look forward to attending events hosted by Rafaeli during this year’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. “I’ll be making fabulous announcements as the summer season approaches.”   Visit Victoria’s Vision at VictoriaRafaeliOfficial.com

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