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Fashion, Fashion 101

An Unbeatable Tag Team: Alexander Wang x H&M

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  Photos courtesy Umeda Osaka(H&M) & Steven Klein(Alexander Wang Portrait), Wikimedia.org Mouths hit the floor this weekend when on Saturday night Alexander Wang dropped the news that he and the fast-fashion retail giant, H&M, would be partnering up this year for H&M’s annual designer collaboration – the first of its kind. The announcement was made via Instagram when Wang and his close buddies were hanging out at the ultimate fringe and hipster festival, Coachella. Like a bomb, the news came as a huge surprise. Especially when the numbers 11:06 popped up on millions of instafeeds, as a promise that the line would debut November 6th of this year. “We’ve had Twitter and we’ve had Facebook. We’ve had an Instagram account for about two years now with no posts and we were really waiting for the right moment to do something with it and find the right project,” Wang tells Women’s Wear Daily at Coachella. No details have been disclosed regarding the aesthetic of the line, but the Balenciaga designer promises to accommodate both male and female future consumers. Judging by Alexander’s track record, we can’t help but anticipate his crave-worthy pieces – or we hope they’re crave-worthy. Only November 6th will tell. – Nycole Sariol

Culinary

Veritage – The Responsible Alcoholic’s Paradise

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Wednesday marked the kick-off of Veritage; a four-day jubilation dedicated to foodies, winos, and beer guts. The Wednesday inauguration lured hundreds to the paint-splattered Wynwood Walls, where a bevy of beer, wine, and food stations sat awaiting those who longed to dive into food comas and utter inebriation. MSM, of course, was invited to partake in such festivities. Arriving at the event, two lines of – what appeared to be – working interns, greeted guests, hovering over them on either side of the long curvy walkway that led to the festival. Slapping the interns some high-fives like we were heavyweight champs approaching the arena only seemed appropriate. Finally, stepping foot into the crockpot of dark malts and Brioche burgers, the shuffle began. Oscillating from beer booth to beer booth was the perfect beginning to get adrenaline juices pumping and build a hefty appetite. Negra Modelo was the first brewskie checked off on our list. We opted for the darkest beer they had. Usually dark beer has the tendency of being overbearing and the type of beer that grows hair on one’s chest, but misconceptions were shot down with a smooth brew and a sweet twist at the end. Other candidates like SmithWick’s Premium Irish Ale, Adelbert’s Triple B, and New Belgium’s Fat Tire, made the cut of the night’s top picks. After extinguishing the thirst, hunger still lingered. Problem solved thanks to local faves like Midtown’s City Hall Restaurant with their crave-worthy Pulled Pork Sandwiches on a Brioche bun, and Gilbert Bakery serving up some mean Hummus. “We brought our vegan white-bean hummus on a plantain chip and our asparagus croquet with a bacon Parmesan sauce,” said the chipper girl working the Gilbert Bakery booth. But perhaps the fattiest surprise of the night hailed from Miccosukee Resort in the Everglades. “This is a 24-hour, braised pork shoulder served on homemade Brioche with a charred-Vidalia onion apple butter, ripe green apple, chicharrones, and a Vermont white-cheddar foam.” All compacted into a wee sandwich. “I just gained weight listening to that,” joked a hungry patron, swooping up the Brioche bun covered in artery-clogging ingredients. Apparently, Brioche was the theme of the night, pairing up nicely with some beer burps and good-time memories made.

Culinary

The Future of Brazilian Cuisine Comes to Mary Brickell Village: Porcao

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The obvious gushing about mouth-watering Beef Cheek Pierogis or the thirst (and liver) quenching Margaret P.L. (a passion fruit and tequila infused cocktail brimmed with chili powder) is expected while boasting about your night spent at Mary Brickell Village’s newest addition to its restaurant rim of fire – Porcao. However, we’d like to think there’s more than meets the eye, or mouth, than just tasty pass-arounds. Having just swung open its doors to the public this past Wednesday, the Brazilian farm-to-grill restaurant wants its prospective clientele to know something; it’s not your stereotypical “steak-house”. Sure, it’s got enough red meat stocked in its dry-aging room to make a tear roll off Gaga’s cheek. But instead of a connotation that usually shrills “overly-masculine” dining and the barbaric meat-tearing table manners that ensues, having a good time is highly encouraged. Over the banter of double-dates and an over-due “girls-night-out”, Madonna and Exposé mash-ups chine through your eardrums, really making sure to emphasize on the whole “Saturday night get-down” vibe, even if it is just an average Tuesday night. Technology plays a huge roll while putting food on Porcao’s many tables. Red, leather bound iPads serve as fine menu replacements. While double tapping and exercising the over-used likes of your index finger, guests are able to scroll through an infinite amount of pictures as hopeful digestive candidates. Not only do you get a very clear idea of what each plate is, but you’re also able to make a wish list of coveted dishes that hit your mmm bone. The iPad also has a wine-pairing feature, wherein the menu recommends a wine that complements each individual dish. Looks like the Rise of the Machines prophecy is in fact being fulfilled. Once you stop scratching your head and make your selections from the user-friendly iPad, you’re regaled with some of Chef Jeff O’Neil’s homegrown offerings such as the Broiled Veal Marrow – a salty yet potent dish with the help of some horseradish crumbles, smeared along a crispity-crunchity crostini – and the cured salmon with mustard seed and cream paired with toast – promoting a tangy, citrus zest when combining the ingredients – to take the title of best apps. And for dinner, contenders like the oak charred sea bass on a bed of seared cranberry fois gras dumplings, topped with white onion, and the Wagyu Cap Steak with shallots (highly recommended with the potato pillows bedashed with truffle oil) serve as perfect instigators for some major eye-rolling action. For more of this night-and-dine experience, head over to the 10,500 sq. ft. Brazilian enclave in the heart of Brickell for dinner, and (the soon-to-launch) lunch and brunch Monday–Sunday. Mary Brickell Village at 901 South Miami Avenue, Suite 101. (305) 779-2445; www.porcaogrill.com. – Nycole Sariol

Traveler

Offshore Havens

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By Dawn Wilson There are approximately 40 islands and cays (small sandy island formed on the surface of a coral reef) that make up the Turks and Caicos Islands. Each island provides you with a different and unique experience. Turks and Caicos sits 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. There are reported to be just over 30,000 residents living on 8 of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The language spoken is English and the official currency is the US dollar. One of the reasons so many people are attracted to this area is because of its year round temperatures. The average low in Turks and Caicos is a comfortable 75 degrees. The islands are made up primarily of African descendants, however, the population has grown to include a diverse group of ethnicity’s. The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British overseas territory where the Queen appoints a Governor who presides over the Executive Council. The legal system of the islands are based on English Common Law. The Turks and Caicos islands have the world’s third largest coral reef and some of the world’s most beautiful sand beaches. You will love gazing at the tranquil turquoise sea as you lounge about on the beaches of the islands. Many of the beaches are a quick ride from the local airport and are hardly ever overrun by tourist. If you are up for a short island excursion, just take a boat to one of the deserted cays. This day trip is sure to be a great escape from the mundane and routine tourist attractions. Popular activities in the Turks and Caicos Islands are sailing, fishing, golfing and boating. If you seek the excitement of a casino, you’re in luck. You will be able to hit the slots or sit at a game table at the Casablanca Casino in Providenciales. There is definitely no shortage of things to do while vacationing in the Turks and Caicos Islands.   Parrot Cay by Como, is an award winning luxury resort located on a Turks and Caicos private island in the northern Caribbean. Parrot Cay is a quiet, tranquil resort with white sand beaches. At the resort you have the option of a standard room, suite or a private villa or house. The large suites offered at Parrot Cay have french doors leading to your private balcony, overlooking the resort garden. When you want an even more private escape, the Parrot Cay beach villa or beach house would a great option. The villas and beach houses are available in one or two bedrooms with a private pool and direct beach access. Butler service is also available, by request. Parrot Cay offers several dining options, formal and informal. No resort retreat would be complete without a resort spa. Parrot Cay definitely delivers with its on-site spa, Shambhala, where they take a holistic approach to your treatments. Photos Courtesy of COMO Hotels & Resorts   If you are looking for a truly personal and private island experience, you will definitely be able to find it at the Nandana Villa Estate, located in the West End of the Grand Bahama Islands. Upon your arrival via the 5100 ft. private air strip, you are met by staff and personally escorted to the property. The Nandana Villa Estate is a luxurious private estate which goes above and beyond any resort experience you could imagine. Some of the luxury services offered at Nandana Villa Estate include on-site masseuse, 120′ infinity pool, gourmet cuisine, Jet Skis, Jacuzzi, ATV’s, beach volleyball and an 18-hole golf course. Guest suites are approximately 1000 square feet and come complete with jacuzzi tub, luxury bath essentials, indoor/outdoor showers, spacious walk-in closets and either a garden view or an ocean view. If you didn’t think your experience couldn’t get any better, you just wait and see. While at the resort you have access to a 50′ yacht, off road terrain vehicles and a luxury 20′ tender. At Nandana Villa, the sky’s the limit. Photos Courtesy of Nandana Villa         Amanyara borders the reefs of the Northwest Point Marine National Park. Amanyara received the Condè Nast Traveler Readers Choice Award 2013. The Amanyara accommodations are in a secluded area full of lush landscaping and is set on the white pristine sand beaches of Turks and Caicos. They are made up of 40 guest pavilions. In the center of the reception area is a circular bar with stunningly beautiful sea views and a reflection pond. Guest pavilions are located at the edge of a serene pond with timber sun decks. Entrance to the pavilion is through large sliding glass doors. Some of the guest pavilions are situated along the ocean with unobstructed views of  the sea while others surround a dramatic infinity poo Pavilion interiors are made up of a neutral color palate and teak furnishings. Amanyara offers a restaurant with both indoor and outdoor dining, a library, fitness center, wifi, tennis courts, media-room and a spa. Amanyara is a great island hide-away. Photos Courtesy of Amanresorts     The Gansevoort Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel, known for its chic and sophisticated vibe. It is located on the popular Grace Bay Beach. With its 91 guestrooms and 7,000 square foot infinity pool, the Gansevoort is an island oasis. The rooms of the Gansevoort are open and airy, allowing natural sunlight to illuminate throughout the space. The hotel also offers the convenience of an on-site, casual dining restaurant and a beach bar and grill. In the morning guest are treated to a complimentary buffet which is served beachside. Other hotel amenities include complimentary wifi, 24 hour fitness center bicycles and snorkel equipment. Pool pods are also available to guest who choose to relax by the pool for the day. There is a reason that the Gansevoort Hotel was named as a Condè Nast 2013 ‘Gold List’ members, why not discover the reason for yourself. Photos Courtesy of Magda Biernat  

LIFESTYLE

YOLOing

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By Dawn Wilson Photography by Sean Murphy A fun new sport is taking over the beaches of Miami, YOLOing. If you are in Miami seeking out a new and exciting sport to participate in, you may just want to give YOLOing a try. YOLOing or SUP (Stand up Paddling) is a combination of surfing and kayaking. In YOLOing you use a paddle similar to a canoe paddle and stand on a YOLO Board, which looks like a long-board surfboard, only larger. When in the water, you balance yourself through the water currents and waves, with the paddles.   In addition to the sheer fun of the sport, participants also receive a great core and overall body workout while YOLOing. This is because you have to depend on your core muscles in order to stabilize yourself while on the board. When paddling you are also engaging your arms, back and legs; which provide you with an overall body workout. Once you have mastered the sport of YOLOing, it then becomes a great cardiovascular workout. The health benefits are endless. YOLOing or SUPing has long been a sport primarily done in Hawai but thanks to Jeff Archer and Tom Losee, founders of YOLO Board, the sport has picked up popularity in the U.S., namely in the Florida area. When these two men first became familiar with the sport, they knew because of Florida’s many well-known beaches and various waterways, it would be a great launching pad for the sport and the lifestyle it offers. With the idea of introducing Florida to this concept, in 2006, Jeff Archer and Tom Losee went to work on producing YOLO Boards. YOLO Boards are designed with highquality,stablematerials.YOLOBoard, LLC., is considered to be a leader in SUP (Stand up Paddling) board design, marketing and distribution. Since 2007 the company has focused on manufacturing quality boards that are suited for every paddler, regardless of age or level of experience. Thanks to the many YOLO Board retail and rental outlets throughout Miami, YOLOing has become more accessible in Florida.   If you don’t want to be left out of all of the fun of YOLOing, why not visit one of the many places in and around Miami that offer you the opportunity to hone in on this new sport phenomena? Hobie Beach is a popular place for YOLOing because here is where you can find a place to not only go YOLOing but rent equipment, take lessons and socialize with other YOLO enthusiast. If you want to make a full day of YOLOing head over to Oleta River State Park, great for the entire family. The calm waters of the launching area make Oleta River State Park an ideal place for beginners to get the hang of the sport. Once you have the hang of it, you may want to venture out further into the open waters, to test out your skills. You are able to rent your YOLOing equipment and even take a beautiful guided tour atop your board at Oleta River State Park. Surprisingly, even some of the popular hotels are offering YOLOing to their guests. If you are staying Miami’s trendy Standard Hotel you will be able to take advantage of their YOLOing lessons and go YOLOing bayside with other adventurous guests. So, the next time you’re out on the water, why not make it memorable by trying your hand at YOLOing. Click here to view post in the March/April 2014 issue.

Fashion

Style Mafia Confessions

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By Nycole Sariol Trying to stake your claim within the Miami fashion scene is no walk in the park, and especially when it comes to launching your own brand. Limited access to quality yet inexpensive fabrics is made near impossible to find; well-thought out design concepts hard to come across; and of course, who can forget, the grueling pressure of your neighboring competitors, all elbowing to snag the same spotlight of recognition. But for the 22 year-old Miami native and founder of local, contemporary brand Style Mafia, Simonett Pereira is the head of the fashion mob – or rather mafia. “We just got a bunch of new stuff, like fifty new pieces,” says the iced-blonde, style vixen while juggling curating a photo shoot for the cover of a Colombian magazine, keeping tally of stylist pulls, and lunging through box-loads of fresh, new merchandise. Although the fashion realm is where Pereira breathes easiest these days, it was publications and event coordinating that led her to an inevitable fate as shop owner and style peacemaker. Places like 944 Magazine and big time event firms provided the experience that she required, but not the artistic satisfaction that she in fact craved. “I’m a networker,” she proudly confirms. But it wasn’t until the youngling turned to blogging that which filled the hallowed void Simonett was desperate to find. “There were these sporadic stylists, bloggers, and designers that were dispersed throughout Miami and I wanted to bring them all together.” And so it was – the birth of Style Mafia – a platform where 305 and 786 patrons of the fashion-obsessed variety could showcase their talent through exclusive productions like photo shoots and video blogs. While Pereira was focused on bringing inspiration to the Magic City through her blog, she was also catering to the retail-holics via mobile app Poshmark, selling pieces from her very own closet. “I finally got to the point where I would sell up to 60 items in a week!”And then, a light-bulb moment evinced from a suppressed idea was released, allowing Style Mafia to evolve from blog to brand.“I wanted something really different,” states Pereira about her contemporary womenswear line dedicated to all things, mesh, clean-cut, and embroidery. But for Pereira, sending a message out into her community is not just about textiles and drapery, it’s about making a grand entrance, ergo the opening of her Wynwood boutique in December of last year. “The outside was covered in graffiti; there was blue carpet that was ridden of humidity; it had slate walls and it smelled like death,” she describes her now-gallery inspired boutique kissed by modernity, pre-renovation. “I wish I had a picture to show you,” giggling to herself. The launch of the 3,000 sq. ft. compound gave way to a 55-piece collection and a generous following almost immediately. There, retailers and casual clientele all call Style Mafia home. Today, the brand is carried in over 50 stores worldwide and was spotted at the Latin Grammys and Good Morning America. So what’s next for this already booming brand? “We just re- launched our website and blog!” Simonett squeamishly blurted out. “We also have a fashion film that we are producing next week,” she states. Style Mafia will debut the artful fashion film at a private exposition later this month, collaborating along side local artist, Sabrina Yanguas. “We are doing limited edition accessories in collaboration with Sabrina’s art and my pieces.” “We have a little bit for everyone,” Pereira says, “Style Mafia is a place where you can rediscover your style.” The mob-boss affirms. All images courtesy of Style Mafia. Click here to view this post in the March/April 2014 issue.

Fashion

Louis Vuitton Hitches A Ride In The BMW i8

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By Nycole Sariol This spring, ditch the burnt-out Corolla for your weekend getaway. You deserve so much better. Instead, let the BMW i8 with it’s bespoke set of luggage from French fashio house, Louis Vuitton, serve as the only acceptable mode of travel. With the recent arrival of the hybrid likes of the i8, LV wanted to capitalize on this efficient way of voyaging by introducing the carbon fiber luggage and its made-to-fit function within the plug-in sports car – from the colors right down to the storage. This collaboration with BMW epitomizes our shared values of creativity, technological innovation and style,” sings great grandson of the House’s founder and Louis Vuitton Head of Special Orders, Patrick-Louis-Vuitton. “Our craftsman at Louis Vuitton have enjoyed the challenge of this very special project, using their ingenuity and attention to detail to create a truly made to measure set of luxury luggage,” he says, “This is a pure expression of the art of travel.” The collection consists of four, carbon black, luxury pieces done in Louis Vuitton’s signature chequered Damier print and are branded with a laser-etched Louis Vuitton autograph. Rumbling and tumbling of unfastened luggage while hitting that tricky left hand turn will never again be a problem. Every piece from the lightweight yet sturdy collection has a designated “car seat” to insure a rattle free drive. The weekender GM, takes a seat in the boot; the Garment Bag lies flat on the rear shelf of the car; the Business Case, sinks into its analogous rear seats; and the succinct nature of the Weekender PM finds a home on its surface. The designer series will show face – or fiber, rather – April 1st in select Louis Vuitton stores worldwide.       Click here to view this post in the March/April 2014 issue.

Beauty

With Dr. Johnny Franco of Miami Plastic Surgery

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  A graduate of Beloit College with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Dr. Franco earned his Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Texas Medity School of Medicine. There, he was chief resident from 2010-2011. In 2011, he completed additional training at Chan Gung Hospital in Taiwan with a focus on microsurgery primarily in cancer reconstruction, followed by a fellowship at Gent Univical Branch at Galveston. Dr. Franco served his residency in Plastic Surgery at Saint Louis University Hospital in Belgium where he specialized in breast reconstruction and fat grafting. Dr. Franco has an impressive history of publications and presentations and has received many academic achievement awards including the Walter S. Haven Prize, Elizabeth W. Souter Award and the Merck Index Award. Originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, Dr. Franco is bilingual in English and Spanish. MSM: Tell us what inspired you to become a plastic surgeon? I was always interested in surgery and medicine growing up. Early on in medical school I thought that I wanted to do transplant surgery, however the more exposure I had to plastic surgery the more I loved it. Plastic surgery is such a broad field with endless potential. One of the things that I love about plastic surgery is that it is truly a combination of technical skill, knowledge and an art form. Every person is different and there is no one correct way to treat everyone. This individuality from patient to patient makes every day exciting and a new challenge. MSM: What are the newest procedures in plastic surgery? There are a couple of new procedures that have changed plastic surgery in the past few years. The first is fat grafting which has allowed us to sculpt the body in ways that we were never able to do before. It allows a plastic surgeon to remove fat from unwanted areas and enhance other areas. The body can be shaped as whole rather than just individual enhancements. It also can avoid the need for implants or other foreign materials such as fillers. Fat grafting has become extremely popular here in Miami for procedures like the Brazilian Butt lift because of the overall improvement women receive in their entire shape! The gummy bear breast implants have improved the results that plastic surgeons have been able to achieve in both breast augmentations and breast reconstruction. It gives patients more options to achieve the shape and size that they desire for their breasts. It is now possible to individualize every breast augmentation to the patient. Voluma is a new facial filler that lasts two years compared to the typical six to nine months that most other fillers currently last. It allows patients to decrease the number of visits to their plastic surgeon! MSM: What are facial fillers and Botox? The most important comment I can make about Botox and fillers is that patients need to be aware of what they are having injected into their body. As mentioned earlier make sure that the person injecting you truly has your best interest at heart. If what the person is telling you sounds to good to be true it probably is to good to be true. Unfortunately too often I see patients that have had silicone or biopolymer (or they have no idea what was injected) into their face or buttock and then they come in for treatment because the individual that injected them is nowhere to be found. There are a lot of great fillers on the market that will give you a safe and beautiful result so please do not do something that is going to cause lifelong problems by using products by non-certified physicians. Botox is a neuromodulator that is most commonly used to treat wrinkles in the forehead and around the eyes. When used correctly it can also be used to give patients a non-surgical brow lift as well. Fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, Volume, Radiasse and so forth are most commonly used to rejuvenate and fill the lower two thirds of the face. The fillers replace the volume that people lose in their face to give them a more youthful refreshed appearance. They have become so popular because these procedures are done in the office with virtually no down time and they leave you looking refreshed and youthful. The popularity of Botox and fillers has come from the ease of the procedure and aesthetic enhancements. Many patients come in during their lunch hour to have their filler or Botox and can go back to work without any down time. MSM: Who is the perfect candidate for facial fillers such as Botox & Juvederm? Botox is perfect for anyone who is has started to notice wrinkles in their forehead and around their eyes. When done correctly Botox can give a very natural, smooth youthful appearance. Fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm are great for anyone who has started to notice that their face is sagging, deflated or just not as youthful in appearance as it once was. MSM: What are the best nonsurgical procedures that produce the most lasting results without going under the knife? Patient’s that get on a good skin care regimen early in life will thank themselves for it later on. Sunscreen is especially important in a city like Miami. The damage that we do to our skin in our youth will catch up with us eventually! Botox and fillers have become so popular because they give a very natural, but rejuvenated appearance without the need for surgery or down time. I tell patients to start with small amounts of these products, as they just want to enhance the great features that they already have that make them unique. The idea is just to maintain your beauty and not change your appearance. MSM: What questions should new patients who are interested in plastic surgery be asking themselves? They should seek out board certified plastic surgeons that can have open discussions with them. They should not be afraid to take a list of questions to their surgeon during the consultation. Patients should be

MSM Tech Roundup

Precious Cargo

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By Eric Nathal Here at MSM we thrive on showcasing the latest trends in technology and hot new finds. This tech roundup will help you get more from your favorite activities, whether it’s listening to your favorite music or keeping track of precious cargo on your next getaway.   Designer Sound Designed in Milano, the V-MODA Crossfade M-100s are the perfect marriage between fashion and hi-fi. The award-winning M-100s are outfitted with 50mm drivers delivering clean bass and powerfully crisp sound. It’s not wonder they’re the headphones of choice for celebs and top. DJs around the world; $310; V-MODA.com.   Big Picture  Tired of hovering over your tiny 5″ iPhone screen to share pictures or videos? FAVI Entertainment’s Pico+ is a pocket-sized projector that fits easily into the side of a laptop bag or purse; allowing you to wirelessly share mobile screens and laptop content on up to a 100″ projector screen or wall; $299: FaviEntertainment.com       Gold Standard Quite arguably the world’s most extravagant earbuds, Happy Plug’s Deluxe Edition are made to order and carefully hand-crafted a Stockholm goldsmith from 18-karat gold; $14,500; HappyPlugs.com       Big Luxury The Geneva XXL is an all-in-one home theater system that doubles as a TV stand. The XXL is contained inside an elegant wood cabinet finished in a choice of red, black or white piano lacquer. Whether you watch the news, sports, a music video or a movie, this sound system will deliver an exceptional sound experience and add to the decor of any room; $3,499; GenevaLab.com.     Travel Smarter It’s a horrible feeling; you arrive at your destination, patiently wait for the last bag at the baggage claim and after a long wait you realize your luggage decided to make a pit stop somewhere else. The Trakdot Luggage Tracking Device will tell you exactly where your bag ended up long before the airlines figure it out. The device can be placed in any checked bag and will alert you by reporting city and airport location in real time to any cellular telephone via text or e-mail; $89.99; Trakdot.com   Click here to view full story in our March/April 2014 issue.  

MSM Online, Real Estate

Miami Real Estyle – Patricia Delinois, Miami’s Luxury Real Estate Messiah

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With a long-standing list of accomplishments and her sultry, chocolate locks, real estate tycoon, Patricia Delinois, President & CEO of Century 21 Premier Elite Reality, makes sure to get what she wants – and visibly deserves. This Luxury Real Estate Messiah and NBCUniversal Style Network star, staked her claim to fame long before Andy Cohen and pernicious catfights. For the award winning broker, seamlessly globalizing the 305’s real-estate market, while helming 175 agents deemed a lucrative cakewalk to the philanthropic enthusiast. Although a fluent speaker in three languages – French, Spanish, and English – the property powerhouse fancies one language in particular – selling; she fills us in on her landholdings hypnosis that has foreign affairs and local buyers alike, buzzing. MSM: Did the credit crisis of 2008 have a significant impact on your business and ability to sell homes? In 2008 we had over 46,000 properties available for sale on the market. Clients were asking for rentals, rentals, rentals!! Prices kept dropping and real estate offices were closing. Banks were not lending, mortgage brokers were all closing their companies. It was a very sad, difficult time and a tough process to get anything sold! MSM: What makes Century 21 Premier Elite Realty successful? At the end of 2011 we noticed that sales were up 4 percent from 2005 which was the boom year. A shift was beginning. This shift we were experiencing was due to the foreign buyer. Miami was suddenly on everyone’s radar. The Wall Street Journal named us the “new global city” 62 percent of the buyers now buying in Miami are foreign buyers and 90 percent of those buyers are buying cash. What makes our company different is we are an international company. We focus on foreign clients from all over the world. 48 percent of the business done by Century 21 is outside of the US. We are the most recognized real estate brand in the world. We also are the only real estate company to have an inter-office MLS, providing access for all of our agents and clients to listings from all of our offices around the world through our global MLS website Century21global.com. MSM: Describe your average client profile in the Miami market. Are they in the market to invest or to live in the property? The average Miami buyer is either from one of the large northern cities like New York, Chicago, Boston and Washington DC or they come from other countries in Europe, Asia and South America. We currently have a lot of traffic from Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, France, Columbia and a considerable number of buyers from Canada, Mexico, Russia and China. They want to invest in properties in Miami for security, safety, political, and financial reasons. Most foreign buyers feel more comfortable investing money in Miami than in their own country. They also see the incredible potential in appreciation as this city is transforming at an extremely rapid pace. Many buyers come to invest in America, but others purchase their properties as full or part time homes. MSM: How is the Miami luxury real estate market rebounding since the 2008 housing crash and where do you project pricing trends to move over the next 2 years? Wealthy buyers love the international feel that Miami provides along with sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, thriving nightlife, glamour, entertainment and global business opportunities. They find our per sq. ft. prices much lower than in their own cities and want to own a second or even third residence in Miami. The demand for luxury properties has been fueling the construction and price growth. Miami is a city that is being compared to cities like New York, LA or Paris but we really are still a very new young city with tremendous growth potential. We are quickly becoming a world class city, attracting global attention and boosting real estate price appreciation. We are looking forward to a very strong healthy real estate market in the next years to come. MSM: Are you showing more condos or houses? Both have a strong demand right now depending on the clients lifestyle. MSM: What do you see as the hottest growing part of Miami right now? We have had our third consecutive record sales year and two years of double digit price appreciation. Miami real estate is booming from affordable housing to luxury properties and this is just the beginning. Prices are still around our 2004 pre boom prices and with the combination of very low interest rates we are offering a perfect buying opportunity. Miami is not large. We have the Everglades on one side and the Atlantic on the other side combine that with the increasing population and strong buying demand is making most of Miami real estate attractive everywhere! Currently we are still seeing tremendous growth downtown, in the Brickell area, and all along the Biscayne corridor. The Wynwood area, Doral area and the Design District. In addition there is tremendous growth in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove and all over Miami Beach. Miami has that international appeal keeping our residential and commercial real estate market hot for years to come!   1643 Brickell Ave #3102 The hottest buy on Brickell. In one of the most prestigious buildings in Miami the Santa Maria This is a fabulous two story residence in the sky. Priced at $5,900,000 3467 N Moorings Way Coconut Grove Florida Stunning Moorings Estate. For the distinguished buyer who appreciates the arts, enjoys a waterfront lifestyle and requires the ultimate in privacy and security, this exquisite 1929 DeGarmo, is located in the most coveted, guard-gated Coconut Grove neighborhood, The Moorings. Designed by renowned architect Walter DeGarmo, this magical and romantic, walled and gated estate has been lovingly restored to its original splendor. Magnificent finishes and décor exemplify the grandeur and old world charm that you would expect of one of the most beautiful properties in all of South Florida. A masterpiece of Mediterranean inspired architecture, it is surrounded by the most enchanting courtyards, incredible landscape, beautiful gardens and loggia lined patios, all on the water’s edge.Priced at $8,950,000 Click here

Editor's Picks

Beauty Editor Picks

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Soft dewy skin is a must and hydration is the key to keeping it firm and deliciously ethereal. Hydration and oil are two different things and many equate moisture to breakouts and oil slicks. The key is quenching the upper layers of the skin with nutrients and hydration Hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to give you that radiant luminescence. It’ll also help push out invasive aggressors like toxins and restore your natural luminosity. We recommend you guzzle down eight 8 oz. glasses of water a day and add boosters to your hydration like Camu Camu or B12 complexes in order to optimize your body’s regenerative abilities. FOR BOLD SEXY EYES, WE LIKE…  Eyeko London’s EYE DO liquid liner. You won’t find a deeper black than this award winning precision marker with its smooth handling and lash enhancing properties. Stay as close to the lash- line to create that subtle look. Go bolder for a dramatic cat-eye look. FOR  AMAZING BROWS  Longer thicker brows are usually associated with youth. Fuller brows have made a comeback and you need not look further to the first family of reality television to see how an aptly constructed brow (and fabulous contouring) keeps the eyes lingering. The secret is to recreate the look as in your baby pic- tures. Fill in the brows in a way that resembles your past self. Define and blend with a spoolie, brush to subtly enhance. When in doubt- don’t pluck. It’ll take time but it took you years of over plucking to get here, many underestimate the power of an arch built from the top. We Like…Anastasia Beverly Hills – BROW GENIUS is incredibly smart. Get natural looking, beautifully bold brows by swiping their clear waterproofing gel & BROW GENIUS LOOSE POWDER along the gaps on your arch. Blend and fight off the suitors.   FOR AN INVITING SEDUCTIVE SCENT… The key is quality ingredients. You’d be surprised how well the spicy bite of tobacco leaves intermin- gles with amber resin or myrrh. The scent should be alluring-not imposing. Spring time balances, earthy musks with citrus or herby finishes.One of our favorites… SACRED WOOD by Kilian The earthy scents of this fragrance reminds us of nature. Sacred Wood works harmoniously well with virtually everyone. Best part of all, it’s unisex.     FOR SEDUCTIVE HAIR… Spring is synonymous for lush ladylike locks. Soft tousled waves sculpt and enhance your sexiness by giving the face dimension and softening your silhouette. Again, hydration is the key and polished volume is achievable by saturating your hair with nutrients and protection to ward off frizz. Quench your parched mane by conditioning your ends daily and using targeted products to give you that extra protection.       We Recommend… technology that reduces styling time and allows larger sections to be styled. ghd eclipse the latest addition to its roster of intuitive thermal stylers. It not only smooths out the frizz to create sleek poker- straight looks but has the ability to create loose flowy waves with its tri-zone For that glamerous hollywood look spray on your favorite thermal protector, glide through tresses and twirl for seductive sexy waves. Be sure to hold the waves in place and let them cool before applying your favorite products and flipping around that sexy volume.     FOR A FLAWLESS TO DIE FOR SKIN, WE RECOMMEND… Urban Decay Naked skin weightless ultra definition foundation. This foundation is weightless and virtually invisible. It creates the luminous but demi-matte finish we love. As an everyday foundation , this product helps you achieve a natural illuminated finish. It comes in a great range of shades and the coverage is buildable. Urban Decay Naked Skin BB Broad Spectrum spf 20. Blur flaws in seconds with this five in one beauty balm that minimizes the appearance of pores ,lines ,wrinkles and redness instantly. The Universal shade glides on smoothly and dries down to a translucent flawless finish. This is our Go to product for a fast, flawless effortless look with measurable anti-aging benefits perfect for the beauties on the go. Urban decay 24/7 Glide on eye pencils. These highly pigmented creamy pencils have be- come a staple in our beauty routine. Their smooth formula makes for an effortless application, and the beautiful range of bright vibrant colors make this product a fun staple for the artistic individual. We love that they stay put all day and night , no more pencil transfers or bleeds.   Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil Urban Decay has done it again with this easy to use concealer that hides imperfections and stays put all day. No more checking in the mirror to see if your concealer budged or creased. This creamy formula blends easily and dried to a beautiful mate finish. The concealer pencil is convenient. No more messy brushes or dipping fingers into pots . This pencil is ideal for a fuss free, mess free makeup application.   By Terry’s sensational Terrybly Densiliss foundation. This foundation dries with a lush semi-matte finish and improves skin density and tell tale signs of wear and tear with its skin mimicking active ingredients. Be sure to give your skin a high dose of free radical fighting power by marrying it with a high efficiency product like SeSderma’s liposomal vitamin C-VIT serum.   Click here to view this post in the March/April 2014 issue.

Beauty

On the go beauty

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Photographer: Mikhail Malyugin/MUA: Anna Nerezona/Model: Valeria Grosheva You’ve caught yourself googling over celebrity selfies and editorial spreads. You probably wonder how they all manage to achieve sublimely glowing skin and eternally gracing effortlessly polished hair. You’re not alone. In some way, shape or form we’ve all sought out non-evasive ways to rejuvenate our appearance. It goes beyond Instagram filters and BB creams that promise to minimize creases. At the head of our commitment to delay the wear of father time is the pressure of looking well rested and jovial despite the cocktails, deadlines and gorgeous I-95 gridlock. Here are some insider secrets around town that turn back the clock (no Bravo reality show required). Sesderma Skin Shop: Targeted Skin Treatments 67 Miracle Mile – Coral Gables, Florida 33145 Tel: (305) 441-1484.  Skin has its own language; are you listening? The überly European powerhouse has reigned the upper echelon of skin connoisseurs by perfecting the art of zero downtime peels and luxurious treatments. Dermatologists have been raving about their delivery of bio-compatible active ingredients for over 25 years and we can clearly see why. Its US flagship store in Coral Gables has become a hub for celebrity sightings with Ferulac facelifting facials, rare snail secretion serums, to rejuvenating those secret bits that’ll make us blush…    Vilzajo Salon: Hair Botox 1361 Coral Way – Miami, Florida 33145 Tel: (786) 999-2223 Okay so your hair doesn’t have muscles or crow’s feet but it certainly loses its lustre and breaks with all that sun, stress and over processing. Creamy crack addicts this is your answer!! The treatments mend lifeless strands by infusing caviar oils, rich aminos and collagen to the cortex of the hair; restoring the gaps in each strand with a little extra TLC. Great for any- one wanting to tame unruly manes or resuscitate winter rats nests. The posh Vilzajo Salon in The Roads is one of the few places with the real deal, just don’t spill the beans of this well guarded secret. Botox? Me? Never..   REVIV: IV Infusion. 1601 Washington Avenue Suite 112 Miami Beach, Florida 33139 Tel: (305) 397-8403.  To radiate on the outside you must cleanse from the inside; make up for lost time by indulging in an IV cocktail. Glutathione, energy boosters and skin loving antioxidants pick up the pace on those jet lagged cells. The rush of deep hydration flushes away toxins and relieves wear from the daily grind. Folks that work and play hard adore their metabolism igniting con- coctions and highly addictive energizing packs to give you a quick pick me up. For the Rolls Royce of intravenous drip nutrition ask for the Royal Flush 😉   Tulin: The Threading Genius 145 Madeira Avenue. Coral Gables, Florida 33134 Tel: (305) 975-5209.  In the hierarchy for brow shapers this woman is Leonardo Da Vinci, Gahndi and Mother Theresa rolled up in one. Just don’t expect the soft spoken Turkish native of to brag; her artistic eyes, thread and surgical hands do the talking. Her hidden stu- dio has made it’s way into our list for the sheer fact that she’s restored arches from countless mall threading disasters,not to mention a few A-listers that fly in to be graced with her face framing technique. “Every hair has a place, my job is to soften your expression and enhance the beauty in your face”. The skilled designer has a knack for rehabilitating sparse brows and creating subtle well rested gazes with architectural precision. Click here to view this post in the March/April 2014 issue.

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