 As the largest event in the country showcasing international fashion, it’s no wonder the 11th annual Miami Fashion Week®, held March 19-22, attracted some of the most prominent designers, entertainers, and celebrities from more than 60 of the most anticipated emerging and established designers from North, South, and Central America, including Mexico and the Caribbean, as well as international designers from Italy, Spain, Australia, U.A.E, Pakistan, South Africa, Eastern Europe, and India. In addition, the International Culinary Arts Pavilion was launched this year, where each evening a different celebrity chef prepared a tasting menu based on the countries the designers are showing from that evening.
As a veteran patron, I knew exactly what to expect from MFW: fabulous runways, amazing collections, fascinating people, electrifying nightlife, and ultimately an extraordinary experience that embodied a plethora of cultural diversity. This year was particularly special because not only would I be witnessing a surplus of talented designers at Fashion Week, but I was also going to see my fashion designer friend, Lei Marco and his exclusive fashion show, hosted by reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian. Lei, who started his career right here in Houston, is someone whom I have known for more than 10 years. I could go on and on about Lei’s show, but you’re just going to have to wait! With so much to report about the larger-than-life Lei Marco, his smokin’ hot fashion show, his flawless models, and the glam and glitz of it all, this experience deserves its own article to capture everything. Look for my complete report, infused with all the juicy details, in the June issue. For those of you who can’t wait, grab the March issue of Miami’s 944 Magazine and flip through the “party pics,” or just click here to get a sneak peek at this super hot fashion show.
The Standard
 After researching, we chose to stay at The Standard Hotel, located off the main drag, on the quiet and mostly residential Belle Isle. Known for its impeccable service and exquisite communal bathhouse-esque spa, our expectations of The Standard were definitely upheld. The outdoor patio, complete with breathtaking views of the ocean and a free-standing antique tub, covered only by cascading white linens, made it practically impossible to feel anything but pure bliss.
The Standard is considered a “spa hotel,” meaning most spa services are included in the price. I was so busy with our Fashion Week activities that I was not able to take advantage of the spa until the following day. Eager and excited, I headed to the third floor. Centralized around bathing in its many forms throughout history, the spa encourages communal, shared rituals of traditional bathhouses with a "do-it-yourself" menu of hydrotherapy. Countless services were offered; we could explore the curative effects of water, steam or mud in the Hamam, or relax in the Aroma Steam Room, Cedar Sauna, Sound Pool, Roman Waterfall Hot Tub or Mud Lounge. Here, I indulged in a steamy mix of health and hedonism while learning the ageless art of bathing indoors and out. My service of choice? The Aroma Steam Room followed by a cool shower, like the Europeans have been doing for ages. In addition to increasing blood circulation; this routine also has cardiovascular benefits as it increases the pulse rate without increasing blood pressure.
 Though we planned on devoting the majority of our time spent in Miami to “play,” we both knew we would have to find some time to work, Mary more so than myself. As the founder of TheACY.org, Mary decided to make this trip more than just a vacay. In order to capture Miami Fashion Week from a different perspective, Mary enlisted the help of a videographer and photographer to document not just the glitz and glamour of the fashion industry, but rather the personal anecdotes, hardships that were overcome, from the success stories of the designers, celebrities, stylists, makeup artists, etc. that really exemplify this event. After all, overcoming life’s obstacles and empowering oneself by turning something negative into positive is the core message of this foundation.
Front Row & Back Stage Access
 As I approached SOHO Studios on opening night, it was like déjà vous in the most pleasant sense. Unable to resist, my friends and paused briefly on our journey down the red carpet to take pictures in front of the logo wall before entering the fashion wonderland that is SOHO Studios.
Though opening night is always a more little low key—as it is reserved for press conferences, welcoming speeches, and several showcases—I had a blast. Having met and kept in touch with a few wonderful people and dignitaries from previous years, I had fun watching and cheering them during their speeches. We were even offered front row seats, courtesy of Yves, owner of the SOHO warehouse with whom I became friends from last year’s event.
Between shows, we were invited backstage. This brought back memories when I was producing shows for Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Versus, and Betsey Johnson. It's a familiar scene for me, where everything was moving at light speed, as we stepped into the whirlwind of half naked models, frantic stylists, frenzied makeup artists, chatty reporters, and anxious designers. However,
it was a lot more fun seeing it as a spectator than as a coordinator.
 Show after show throughout its four-day standing-room-only run, my girls and I had the time of our lives commenting on each ensemble like the true fashionistas that we were. As the week progressed, so did the shows. After seeing so many, it was definitely a task trying to decide on a favorite, but overall, I would have to say the last day of the event, Sunday, showcased the best designs from the previous years’ winners. It was hard to believe that these are only emerging designers; their designs were even better than some of the more famous designers of today. Sunday’s itinerary also included the star-studded Miami Moda and Music Awards® fused fashion and entertainment into an awards show featuring designers, celebrities and international recording artists. Designer of the Year was Agatha Ruiz de la Prada from Spain; and Student Designer of the Year award went to Benjamin Lear from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, among many other awards in different categories.
Sabrina Barnett Collection
 One designer really stood out for me this year… Sabrina Barnett, former singer and supermodel, was a big winner in our book. While I was in absolute awe of her ultra-cool, wearable and creative collection, I was equally taken by her mission to empower women.
Bringing a wealth of life experiences and fashion expertise to her unique designs, Barnett’s collection embodied an inescapable positive message that expressed the true essence of women empowerment and love. In a short motivational video clip aired before the show, Barnett documented her mission to make all women understand and embrace the fact that everyone is beautiful in their own divine way by not only appreciating themselves, but by helping and empowering each other.
 As I watched the models grace the runway, I realized that many of them didn’t fit the super tall, rail thin model stereotype. Rather, they were all different sizes, heights, ethnicities, and even ages; I feel like this made the show that much more exceptional and demonstrated how universal her collection really is. As if the show wasn’t already stunning enough, the finale launched Barnett into designer goddess-status in my book. Wearing the final ensemble, an absolutely gorgeous, elegant, elder woman shined as the spotlight followed her down the catwalk. At this point, I knew that this was a designer who could walk the talk; Barnett cared more how her clothes would look on real people. Completely touched, I joined as everyone applauded in a standing ovation as this breathtakingly beautiful elder woman posed, smiled, and headed backstage just as elegantly as she had come out. What a finale!
Blown away, we waited after the show to meet Sabrina, who was actually better in person than what we expected. During our conversation, it was obvious that her passion as a designer and advocacy for women was not just a façade. With every question we asked, Barnett would reply with passion and sincerity, trying to express her knowledge, insight and beliefs. As we explained how inspired we were by her mantra, I could tell that we weren’t the only ones who had been touched; Barnett was actually a little teary-eyed. It was hard to decide who was more moved by this encounter, Mary and I for Sabrina’s mission or Sabrina for her appreciation of our admiration for what she was trying to do. Parting ways, we couldn’t stop talking about Sabrina and how uplifting the experience was, seeing her awesome collection and getting to know her story. It was such a treat to meet an earnest and candid yet driven person who isn’t afraid to follow her dreams, and doing it her way. It was definitely the highlight of our MFW moments. Check out her rockin’ collection at www.sabrinabarnett.com
Celebs
One word I found synonymous with Miami Fashion Week is global celebrity. It seemed like every time I turned around, some famous international star was just an arms-length away. Though I didn’t recognize some of them, it was always exciting as to learn who they were and see the commotion surrounding them.
Among celebrities we spotted were Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza, Miss USA Crystle Stewart, actress Sofia Comparini; stage, movie and television star Alejandro Chaban; actor Gabriel Porras; television personality María del Carmen Sojo; and actress and former Miss Panama Patricia De León, actress Elsa Pataky, model Elena Tablada, journalist Chabeli Iglesias, reigning Miss Spain Elisabeth Reyes, upcoming reality TV star Curtis “CJ” Joseph, American actor Vincent De Paul from the movie “Poseidon” and the original cast of “Hairspray,” Mexican actress Angelica Celaya, and South Florida diva Elaine Lancaster, among many others. We had a blast talking to, and had pictures taken with, most of them. Attending Sunday night’s festivities were
Eden Roc Rocks!
 It really wouldn’t be MFW without the after parties! Every night, Miami’s hottest clubs pull out all the stops in order to attract the biggest names in fashion, the socially elite, and the fashionistas like us. As much as we would have liked to attend each and every party, it just wasn’t possible once we factored in the MFW shows, dinner plans, Lei Marco’s own fashion show (separated from MFW), and other private parties. Rather than fretting over it all, we agreed to just go with the flow; so each night our plans turned out differently, without a set itinerary.
One after-party of choice was held at Miami’s hottest hotel, Eden Roc Renaissance Resort & Spa, recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation, returning Mid-Beach to its former glory. Overlooking Miami Beach, Eden Roc embraces its role as a timeless treasure, yet welcomes guests with a congenial modern-day spirit. Its history dated back in 1956, when it was designer Morris Lapidus' most lavish design, attracting a steady stream of legendary celebrities in its hey-day. Today, the completion of Eden Roc’s lavish restoration makes this hotel the ultimate choice in Miami among the Jetsets and the beautiful people. With the redesign of the original Resort Tower and the addition of the sleek 21-story Ocean Tower, the resort has almost doubled its previous size. From the cascading infinity-edge pools, tropical courtyard fountains, and water elements flowing inside and out, the resort evokes an overwhelmingly vast sense of serenity. The moment we stepped foot inside, Mary and I looked at each other with the same though in mind: we have to stay here. More on this later, but first, back to the after party…
 This “Amadeus”- themed event transformed Eden Roc ballroom into a fantasy-like setting, where cirque du sole meets Marie Antoinette meets the Marquis de Sade, etc., but with a modern twist. While extravagant Amadeus-clad entertainers surfed high above the crowd on stilts, the band, complete with curly white wigs and Mozart inspired costumes, kept the party alive with their captivating performances. Almost as unique as the atmosphere of this event, were the guests in attendance. Amidst sipping cocktails, grooving to the band, and absorbing the inimitably fabulous design elements, I can remember meeting more fascinating people at this one party than I had in quite some time.
Impressed and inspired by Eden Roc’s facilities, energy, and hospitality, Mary and I could hardly talk about anything else the next morning; we were hooked. In a spontaneous yet confident decision, we packed our bags, checked out of The Standard, and headed to this five-star hotel for the remainder of our trip. While we regretted leaving the Zen factor and spa facilities at the Standard, we felt a change of scenery never hurts, and hey, we were in Miami and were sticking to our motto of “going with the flow”. While I absolutely adored everything about the hotel, from its clean, modern, sexy décor, to the fabulous view from our room overlooking the pools, our busy schedule really didn’t allow us to experience and enjoy the resort in its full capacity. I did take out a few hours one day to soak in the sun by the pools, while Mary indulged in a massage in its posh spa. We were so impressed with Heather Davis, publicist extraordinaire, and David Siguaw, marketing director and a George Clooney look-alike, who truly raised the bar in customer service. They took good care of us and made us feel like VIPs during our entire stay.
 To add another layer of parties to the already excessive FW after-parties, another group of Houston friends were also in Miami and had rented a bungalow at the Delano hotel for the sole purpose of partying in style. On the nights we were unable to make it to the MFW after parties, the girls and I simply headed to the bungalow to party with some familiar faces and new friends we met during our trip. The combination of the Delano’s gorgeous outdoor patio, energetic atmosphere, old friends and new friends, kept us partying into the wee hours of the morning.
 In order to have energy for the endless activities and parties here, Mary and I woke up early each morning to jog along the hotel strip for an hour before starting our day, one of my favorite activities in Miami. We usually didn’t have din dins until late, after our fashion show activities. My favorite restaurant to revisit was Prime 112, a sophisticated steakhouse known for its dry-aged prime steaks, tantalizing tastes of great food and its luxurious interior which embraces the smooth touch of leather banquettes and lush wood throughout. This time was even more special because we shared it with our new friend Jimmy, a local who entertained us with stories about the Miami scenes, since he has “been there, done that”. Most of us had steak, but I made sure to order the famous Kobe beef hotdog. Heard stars would fly to Miami on private jets just to for this dish. It’s that good!
 Of course we couldn’t leave Miami without stopping by some of our favorite hotspots, SkyBar, to me is one of the most romantic, breathtaking bars in the world, with its deeply sensual background of the colorful tropical gardens. Having visited it every time I’ve been in Miami, it has yet to lose its luster…
Whereas everything about this year’s trip was nothing short of amazing, I couldn’t believe that I had to leave Miami the day before the 2009 Winter Music Conference kick-off. The WMC (www.wintermusicconference.com), attracting every aspect of the industry, brings together the top artists, DJs, producers, radio and video programmers, retailers, and audio manufacturers for a week of music, fun, and networking. In the past, the Fashion Week and WMC events have always been a couple weeks apart, making it impossible for me to attend both. But this year, much to my surprise, they only were 2 days apart, and unfortunately I had no knowledge of this until I had already made my travel plans. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for next year; if they are scheduled this close again, you bet I’ll be there for both.
With several MFW trips behind my belt, I have met many awesome people with whom I have kept in touch. Not that I need any excuse to return, but the familiarity of experiencing MFW each year, combined with the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones keeps me coming back for more. I can remember the first time I came to Miami not knowing a soul; I still had a great time as I made new friends right from the start. Now, with my own little Miami entourage behind me, I realize how just being with the right people can take what is already a great experience, and transform it into an extraordinarily unforgettable one. Until next time, Miami – my ultimate playground - stay sunny, sexy, and beautiful! |
Two sisters who shared a love of the restaurant business and a talent for cooking, brought to life their greatest passion, Pagoda Vietnamese Bistro and Bar. Tired of working under the tyranny of corporate America, Sandy and Ester Tran founded Pagoda a little over a year ago pouring blood, sweat, and a few tears into this now popular Heights eatery. The hybrid style is intended to mimic the ultimate dining experience that you are about to embark on. 
May 22, 2009 - October 18, 2009 
"Archiving Eden is a photographic project that takes tiny forms of life - seeds - as its most basic subject. The x-ray photographs incorporated in Archiving Eden were made at the National Center for Genetic Resources Preservation, a USDA Agricultural Research Service facility located in Fort Collins, Colorado. 
We’ve heard of oil workers in the Gulf of Mexico going fishing off their platforms. And we’ve heard of rigs being sunk to the bottom of the ocean to become artificial reefs. But we’ve never heard of anything quite like this before. A Houston-based architecture firm, 
Gold is a very versatile metal. It is malleable and ductile. It’s a good conductor of heat and electricity, immune to tarnish, and resistant to acids. Although these properties make it very useful in industrial applications, 80% of the gold used each year nonetheless goes into jewelry. 
Hashoo Foundation USA and Medical Bridges are shipping a forty-foot ocean-freight container filled with life-saving medical supplies and rehabilitation equipment destined for Pakistan. The Houston-based organizations recognize the need to challenge healthcare inequities in the developing world by devising solutions that leveraged the city’s reputation as a hub for premier healthcare. "Building bridges and understanding between Pakistan and Houston is exemplified by the blossoming new Houston-Karachi Sister City relationship," said Houston Mayor Bill White. "Providing humanitarian aid through the Hashoo Foundation USA and Medical Bridges program is good way to strengthen those ties."
Eduardo Rivoldi, Director of International Operations of Medical Bridges, said “Houston is well-known for its oil and gas industry, but Houston also has the advantage of having one of the largest and best Medical Centers in the world. We believe that this is the first of many shipments that Medical Bridges will send in collaboration with the Hashoo Foundation. The Hashoo Foundation USA and Medical Bridges, Inc. are building a relationship based on mutual cooperation and understanding to continue bridging the healthcare gap, connecting those who have with those who hope,” he said. 
Join us for an inspiring day as we raise funds to support Breast Cancer Network of Strength’s programs and services that are offered free of charge to anyone touched by breast cancer. 
Blurred visions of growing longer lashes is quickly becoming clear for many women willing to take their chances on the new FDA approved eyelash enhancement drug LATISSE. 
Mikel Marketing is excited to announce the newly added service of Email Marketing - A cost effective way to market your business, especially in this economy. We can create for you a customize e-mail list that suits your needs or help you expand an existing list by append solutions.
.jpg)