By Katie Jackson On Friday evening, Champagne Ruinart gave a special presentation of a new limited edition bottle at Cavalli Restaurant and Lounge during Art Basel. Miami VIP’s sipped on champagne and cocktails while lounging in the ultra-chic upper level. Artistic displays of the Ruinart bottles combined with Cavalli’s sophisticated luxe-lounge truly embodied the ultimate night out on the Beach.
By Katie Jackson Last Thursday evening, AG Jeans hosted their Art Basel-inspired event “Art of Jeans” at their Aventura Mall location. The luxury jean brand displayed uniquely eye-catching denim-inspired pieces alongside other paintings by local Miami artists. Attendees sipped on complimentary cocktails and noshed on adorable bite-sized “AG” inspired cupcakes and cake pops while DJ Bre provided live beats. Giveaways by LUSH were the perfect addition as attendees perused the eclectic artwork. The pieces were then auctioned off in-store with proceeds given to local art-related charities. With artistic luxury denim, LUSH, and philanthropy, it was Art Basel done perfectly.
By Katie Jackson Orianne Collins-Mejjati plays many roles, including an active philanthropist, insightfully creative designer, and most importantly, a mother of three young children. She fuses all three of these roles into her jewelry line, Orianne Collins Jewellery. Now with a boutique located in the burgeoning Design District, her customers are given an eclectic selection of carefully designed pieces that are both timelessly elegant and trendy, all while supporting a profoundly meaningful cause. Collins-Mejjati discovered her love for design in 2003 after working with different brands on special collaborations for the Little Dreams Foundation, the philanthropic organization that she co-founded with ex-husband Phil Collins. With the enormous success of a charm bracelet she had co-designed with Van Cleef & Arpels, she knew that it was time to branch out on her own. “I always wanted to be a fashion designer, and this project made me think that this is something that I really want to do. So I started my own company in 2006.” Inspired by everything around her, Collins-Mejjati can often be found with a pen and sketchbook creating her next piece. “I’m inspired by my travels, by my friends, by the people around me. I don’t want to miss anything. Sometimes it just happens in the middle of the night and I have to have my crayons and start to sketch.” This inspiration wholly translates into her line, with specific destinations even influencing entire collections. After witnessing the beautiful architec- ture in Morocco, Collins-Mejjati was motivated to create her Tales collection. “It’s like the magic from my travels,” she says. Offering a variety of intricately designed rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces for women, Collins-Mejjati also provides pieces for men and children. “I have children, and I create a lot of pieces for them. They test the jewelry, and I know it’s unbreakable. With kids it has to be unbreakable!” With children’s collections filled with adorable charm, like the Glitter and Yummylicious collections, there are plenty of pieces that would make any child’s heart melt. For men, Collins-Mejjati created collections that include sophisticated rings and cufflinks. “Men need some nice jewelry, so I try to offer them some- thing original.” Even with the tremendous success of her line, Collins-Mejjati is always determined to give back. In addition to co-founding and chairing the Little Dreams Foundation, she makes sure that many of the proceeds from her line go directly to the organization. “I create and donate a lot of pieces for auctions, and one hundred percent of the proceeds go to the Little Dreams Foundation.” Collins-Mejjati is confident that Miami is the place to grow her jewelry line and foundation, even opening her boutique in the heart of the up- and-coming Design District. “I think it is going to be the place to be. It’s going to be like SoHo in New York—how it was not very well known, but then became this hip place to go.” When customers enter her boutique, Collins-Mejjati wants to ensure that they feel welcome and know that there this is a piece of jewelry for them. “Everyone is my target customer, and I try to make pieces of jewelry that will reach everybody.” In developing a growing brand that promotes and engages in philanthropy while simultaneously making customers—women, men, and children—feel special, Collins-Mejjati has surely achieved her goal. Orianne Collins Jewellery is located in the Design District at 90 Northeast 39th Street, Miami FL, 33137. To purchase or view Orianne Collins Jewellery online, visit oriannecollins.com. Photography by IMANI OGDEN Stylist: ANNIE VALDIVIA (DOLCE AND GABBANA) Hair: FRANK IZQUIERDO (IGK HAIR, SLS HOTEL) Click here to view post on the November/December 2014 issue.
EXUDE THE ULTIMATE “MIAMI COOL” By Katie Jackson The Wynwood Art District is surely becoming the new epicenter for Miami art and entertainment. Since taking over what used to be a run-down warehouse district, developers and land owners transformed Wynwood into a place that gives artists permission to create fabulous artwork that are showcased on the exterior and interior walls of the buildings within the District. Now with a multitude of art galleries, retails shops, and hot spots for nightlight and the performing arts, Wynwood is the new “it” place in Miami. Visitors can stop at the vegan-friendly Jugofresh or dine at the delicious R House, grab a drink at SHOTS or Wood Tavern all while experiencing some of the most fantastic art displays that Miami has to offer. Wynwood has become such a hot commodity that famous celebrities, models, and designers have all made appearances, even going as far as producing photo shoots and commercials. Beyoncé posted multiple photos of her adventures in the art district on her Instagram account while Kim Kardashian famously fell off of a bike while filming a commercial right in front of one of the graffiti-covered walls. It has even become a new favorite spot for Miami fashion bloggers, who use the gorgeous art-covered walls as backdrops for their latest posts. The collaboration of Aquarella Swimwear and the Wynwood Art District made perfect sense for a photo shoot. Both on the rise, and having a unique take on art and fashion in expression, the art district and swimwear label have a lot in common. Both embody a new, young, artsy-meets-chic attitude, and exude a confident style that is completely captivating the minds of many, if not all, Miamians. Photography by HAMID KOOTVAL Makeup & Hair YESINIA VARGAS Stylist JENNIFER SCLAFANI Click here to view post on the Sept/Oct 2014 issue.
By Katie Jackson #GIRLBOSS will leave you wanting to create your own empire—and to always believe in yourself If you’re in need of an inspirational pick-me-up that will leave you ready to start living out your dreams, #GIRLBOSS is an absolute must-read. Sophia Amoruso, CEO and founder of the leading fashion retailer Nasty Gal, shares her story of how she went from a dumpster-diving, community college dropout to the leader of a 100 million dollar company. In her fascinating fashion tell-all, Amoruso fills in the blanks of her inspirational life, while also providing advice that proves that you can make something out of nothing with pure passion and drive. Within the #GIRLBOSS pages, you will learn how Amoruso launched, merchandised, styled, and photographed the models (whom she paid in burgers) for her original online store called Nasty Gal Vintage all on her own. You will see how she went from a one-woman band working from her bed in a pool house with no kitchen in Pleasant Hill, California, to overseeing more than 350 employees in a gigantic office in Los Angeles. But while details of Amoruso’s monumental rise provide crucial business and marketing tips, perhaps what is most interesting about #GIRLBOSS is Amoruso’s emotionally wise insight and ability to inspire others through her own life lessons. Each chapter of the book is accompanied with a profound quote from a leader in the fashion, business, political or art world (e.g. Chapter Eight’s quote, “I never dreamed about success, I worked for it,” by Estee Lauder). Within each chapter, Amoruso applies that quote to her own life and provides up-front and honest wisdom in which everyone, women and men, can learn. In addition, snippets called “Portrait of a #GIRLBOSS” are included throughout the book. Refinery 29’s editor-in-chief Christene Barberich, blogger Alexi Wasser of “I’m Boy Crazy,” Nasty Gal’s own buying director Christina Ferrucci, and senior stylist Ashley Glorioso among others give tips from their own successes that tie into Amoruso’s overall theme of triumph through honest passion, hard work, and belief in yourself. For someone who was once classified as a “dumpster-diver,” Amoruso certainly seems to have it all figured out, not only in business, but in life as well. There’s a reason acclaimed publications such as the New York Times, Forbes, and Elle are raving about Amoruso’s #GIRLBOSS: it’s simply amazing. Spare yourself the regret and get your copy ASAP.
By Katie Jackson/Photography by Imani Ogden On Monday, the Indah swimwear models walked the last runway at Cabana Grande at The Raleigh Hotel as the 10th anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim came to a close. Guests such as bloggers, editors, buyers, and fashionistas from across the globe were wowed by the MBFWS 2015 impressive lineup—including Beach Bunny featuring the Blonds’ over-the-top glamour, Mara Hoffman’s signature bright and bold prints, complete with palm frond hair ties, Minimale Animale’s racy-chic swimwear and edgy motorcycle helmets, and L*Space’s “Sirens of the Sea” gracing a water runway. It was simply fabulous. Thursday, as promised, the annual MBFWS kick-off party brought us an honorary showcase of designers that have participated over the years. We fell in love with the stylish palm prints of Suboo and Carmen Marc Valvo, and of course, MSM’s July/August cover designer Red Carter’s Art Deco-inspired black and white piece made us swoon. The shows began the next day, as Poko Pano’s Paola Robba debuted her 2015 collection in the Raleigh Pool—yes, in the actual pool. The rest of this year’s MBFWS certainly did not disappoint, as each show produced a resounding “ohh and awe,” from the guests as each model strutted past. (MSM’s July/August cover model Jessica Bleier included.) You can expect a full feature article on MBFWS 2015 in the September/October issue of MSM, including our interviews with designer Monica Wise of L*Space, Pooja of 6 Shore Road, as well as the directors of artistry from both Stila and Vincent Longo. You won’t want to miss these exciting exclusives.
By Katie Jackson/Photo by Imani Ogden (Last years MBFWS 2014 Agua Bendita Collection.) July has notoriously been the hottest time in South Florida. No—not because of the scorching 90-degree weather—but because it is the time when bikini-clad models grace the runway in the hottest designs in swimwear for the annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. This year, things are about to heat up even more as the MBFWS 10th Anniversary kicks-off at The Raleigh Hotel this Thursday. This time, we not only get to celebrate a week of spectacularly fashionable swimwear, but a decade of incredibly talented designers and the show that brought it all to life. On July 17, the annual MBFWS kick-off party will give a special honorary presentation to the designers that have taken part over the years (including MSM’s July/August cover designer Red Carter—who participated in the very first MBFWS.) The lineup for the rest of the week will surely not disappoint the 10,000 plus expected guests—with designers such as Mara Hoffman, Mikoh, L*Space, Aquarella, Luli Fama, Caitlin-Kelly, Rip Curl, Poko Pano, Beach Bunny featuring The Blonds, Caffé Swimwear, Suboo, and so many more. And, of course, the stylish late night after-parties and glamorous poolside celebrations will be in full swing. MBFWS will come to a close on July 21, leaving us waiting for the hottest runway show to return next year. Until then, MSM will be there to give you the exclusive on every last glamorous detail.
Click Here To View Full Story & Images In Our July/August Issue PHOTOGRAPHED BY IMANI OGDEN/INTERVIEWED & STYLED BY KATIE JACKSON/MAKEUP BY ESTHER JIMENEZ/HAIR BY FRANK CATANESE/ SET ASSISTANT-STEPHAN USECHE/SWIMWEAR BY RED CARTER/JEWELRY BY CATTIVA BOUTIQUE/SUNGLASSES BY EDWARD BEINER/SHOES BY STEVE MADDEN/JESSICA REPRESENTED BY FRONT MANAGEMENT From countless spreads in high fashion magazines, to strutting down the runway for numerous years in fashion shows and traveling across the world for photo shoots, Jessica Bleier has certainly cemented her career as a high fashion model. Starting her career at just 11 years old, the Miami native is now a bona fide star. She continues to push creative boundaries, even recently starring as the beautiful love interest of Latin pop singer Chayanne in the music video for his hit single “Humanos a Marte,”proving that her possibilities are endless. But apart from her success, stunning good looks, and ridiculously close resemblance to Angelina Jolie, Bleier is insanely down to earth, making her not only lovable for her work, but for who she is as a person. Bleier’s first run-in with a modeling agency came when she was just in middle school. After being bullied by her classmates for her height, Bleier’s mother decided to take her to a modeling agency in South Beach to prove to her that tall is beautiful. “She wanted to show me that, one day, you can make something of your height,” says Bleier. After being signed immediately to the agency, Bleier was already traveling for work. “My mom would come with me everywhere, we went to places like Italy and Paris,” says Bleier. Despite Bleier’s early success, her career came to a halt when she decided to attend college at the University of Florida to study history. But after graduating during the recession, Bleier found it difficult to find work. While searching for a job in her field, Bleier decided to give modeling another shot to generate some extra income. “One thing led to another and it turned into a full time thing,” says Bleier. After moving back to Miami and signing with Front Model Management, Bleier was catapulted back into the modeling scene, doing fashion shows and photo shoots in Miami and across the world. But this high fashion model loves living the low-key life. Apart from spending time with her high-school sweetheart and fiancé, Bleier loves to garden and read books. “I read constantly,” says Bleier. She also likes to explore the burgeoning art and design districts. “I absolutely love to dance. But other than that I’m more of a low-key, go to a bar, have a beer and hangout type of person.” Bleier also makes sure to get her daily exercise by doing fun activities she truly enjoys. “I have a very active lifestyle. I take my dog for one hour walks, and my fiancé and I like to go kayaking.” Bleier’s one guilty pleasure? Pizza. “My fiancé is in the restaurant business. His parents own Steve’s Pizza, so he manages that. It’s good and bad because every night I fight the urge to eat pizza, which I usually end up eating pizza once every day!” she says while laughing. Although her modeling photos and videos are all over the media and internet, Bleier prefers to stay away from all the social media hype surrounding her career. “I feel like I was supposed to be born at another time. I love real conversation, and just, seeing a person’s face and engaging their reaction.” While it’s obvious that Bleier is a powerful force in the modeling world, what seems most attractive about her is the pure effervescence that shines through Bleier’s approachable spirit.
By Nycole Sariol/Photographed by Imani Ogden When word got out that Miami’s number one fashion blogger, Daniela Ramirez, launched her own capsule collection with Venezuelan brand, Melao, local fashion denizens of Miami and the rest of her 209k followers couldn’t wait to slip one of her ten designs on. However, it was only a matter of time until the personal style blogger stepped out from in front of the camera to have a whack at other endeavors past lending out style advice. “Your blog should be a platform for your portfolio,” the 25-year old creator of Nany’s Klozet said, aiming her baby-browns up toward the ceiling of MSM’s headquarters, while getting her makeup touched up just moments before her photo shoot. Though known mostly or her mash-up remixes of exemplifying ten different ways to wear the same red and black plaid pants (believe me, it can be done), the Venezuelan native affirms that there’s more out there than just taking street style photos in front of one of Wynwood’s graffiti-laden walls. So, “testing the waters” in the design-pool seemed like the obvious next step in the right direction towards expanding her highly sought-after blog. “I thought it was perfect timing,” Ramirez says. The collection, carried online and at local chain boutique, Blush, is comprised of easy-to-wear pieces such as flirty drop waist skirts, basic button ups, and monochromatic colorways in damask prints. Sounds simple enough. But that was, after all, the purpose of its conception – versatility for everyone. “There’s a 1,000 different ways you can wear it,” Ramirez explains of the entirety of the collection. Aside from shooting to make her collabo-collection fun for all, she also takes into consideration the ballin’-on-a-budget minded. “One of the pieces is, like, $39 bucks,” referring to the collection’s reasonably low price points. Still, while this is her first time collaborating to design and coin her own collection, this is certainly not her first time working side-by-side with other brands. “Right now, I’m collaborating with Nordstrom Rack, too. The prices are great,” she adds. “And I always work with Target; they’re fun.” But perhaps the most befitting team-up following her capsule creation has to be the matrimonial coming together with cosmetic brand, L’Oréal. “I’m doing a bridal makeup video with L’Oréal for my wedding,” Ramirez speaks of her special-day-to be with her fiancé and boyfriend of seven years, Gabriel Sanchez. The two lovebirds met while attending college at FIU and have been inseparable ever since. So inseparable, in fact, that the budding couple even works together – Sanchez as her cool boyfriend photographer. With prominent accolades already under her belt like international recognition, being a proud mother of a coveted capsule collection, and of course marrying the longtime love of her life, what’s left for a girl to do? Apparently, publishing her own book would ensue. “It’s going to be something like my remix section on the blog,” where she re-works one piece into several different outfits using none other than exclusive pieces by Melao. Is there anything this renaissance woman of the fashion world can’t do? Evidently not. Click here to view post on the July/August 2014 issue.
This weekend we remember those who have fallen, celebrating in the streets of South Beach by way of urban festivals and questionable behavior. But last weekend, the craziness was equally present. Instead of booty shorts and semi-exhibitionists riding around on vespas, there were leggy models and drapey maxi dresses prancing down the long, encircling runway at the Miami Beach Convention Center during Miami Fashion Week. The international fashion affair showed off up-and-comers like Lisu Vega, Stella Jean, and the Peruvian likes of Escudo as some of the events winners. Others, sadly missed the mark. Yet despite the segregation of those designers who truly know how to deliver, all was fair in love and fashion. Here were our favorite looks of Miami Fashion Week.
A piece of Paris fashion arrived to Miami Beach when the French boutique Roses and Dreams opened its doors in celebration of their grand opening in Miami Beach last Thursday night. Macarons and champagne greeted the guests who joined Valerie Engel, owner, on the inauguration and the ribbon cutting ceremony of the French clothing boutique. Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jerry Libbin held the oversized scissors to cut the inaugurating ribbon with Valerie and gave start to the celebration. The boutique, decorated with vintage photos on the walls and pink and white roses accompanying French designers’ creations, such as Brigitte Bardot and Antik Batik, gave room to friends and family, shoppers and also Venezuelan actor Alberto Quintero and Next Model Chad Masters. Roses and Dreams is Valerie’s creation inspired by her studies in arts and fashion in Paris and her experience working for Chanel fashion house. She brings to South Beach Parisian apparels and accessories that will give a relaxed, yet chic look to the Miami girl. Alberto Quintero, Valerie Engel, Chad Masters Located at 220 10th Street in the heart of Miami Beach. Tel: (786) 803-8383 www.rosesanddreams.us Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 12pm-8pm – Stephan Useche
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