Miami escapes: Local guide to yacht fashion

Memorial Day is right around the corner and what better way to flash your hot new bikini bod than a mini escape aboard a mega yacht cruise.  Treat yourself as the king or queen that you are and explore all that Miami has to offer. Various local companies let you to rent a vessel for just under $2000. A personal favorite is Atlantic Yacht Charters where genial captain Jean-Guy and his staff aim to please. This crew is top class undoubtedly due to their long list of celeb clientele that include; Selma Hayek, Tom and Katie Cruise, amongst others. So the question arises what should one wear on a yacht? Whether you are a jetsetter or day-tripper you will benefit from my top 12 list of boating must-haves.

1. Flirty Caftan/Sexy sheer cover-up
2. Palazzo Pants
3. Short-Shorts
4. Neon tank
5. On trend bikini
6. Sleek Dress
7. Small clutch
8. Oversized carry-all totebag
9. Yachting shoes~Espadrilles
10. Costume jewelry in neon color
11.  Killer shades
12.  Modern Panama hat

 A Flirty caftan from Calypso is a surefire way to bring the St. Tropez element to your boating wardrobe or a POP color and jewel encrusted cover-up from Taj by Sabrina in SOBE. If you are not a dress lady than go for the seasons hottest printed Palazzo or sheer pants paired with a luxe tee.  Alexis Bittar has designed some killer ones available at Splash online or Martier at Gulfstream Shops. If you have a rocking derriere throw on short shorts in a knit or crochet fabric like these inexpensive beauties from Zara and top them off with a bright neon tank from Jcrew on Lincoln Rd. Since yachting typically consists of lounging more than swimming opt for a trendy fringe bikini or one with some glam factor. The bikini Spring 2012 trend is all about mix n’ match, retro revisited, prints and neon. Designer Matthew Zink’s line encompasses all the above styles.  Preferably a bikini that flatters like the cheeky Brazilian cut bottom and a convertible bandeau top.

 Finally, if you are going from yacht to party, then toss a sexy little lightweight dress like this one from Camilla Franks her extensive line can be found at local fisher island favorite Boheme Boutiques. A chic clutch can be easily thrown into your totebag for a nighttime transformation and quick access to cash, lipstick, etc. Forget the straw beach bag instead sport an embellished mirrored croco embossed Marc Jacobs oversized tote. If your budget conscious opt for the sparkle goddess bag only $150 at Henri Bendel’s in Aventura mall. The boutique also carries an extensive line of fashion forward costume jewelry. No outfit is up to date with out neon jewelry. Love this Ted Rossi python neon cuff found at Intermix Bal Harbour. An experienced boater understands the lifestyle calls for a fab and sun protective hat. Check out this newcomer to Miami, Metier for modern straw hats. The finishing touch to any yacht attire is knockout designer aviator shades. Make them nautical inspired like this pair from Dior.

This mini guide is key to a glamorous nautical holiday escape; well at least for a day. Consider tips from a seasoned fashion stylist that wants you to set sail in the right direction.

Hit the Miami pavement for sophisticated boat look

Debbie Katz just off Lincoln Rd. 1629 Alton Rd. 786-543-7074, debbiekatzsouthbeach.com. Known for her beach chic looks shop for luxurious beach cover-ups and tunics.

Jessie Boutique- just off Lincoln Rd. on Alton Rd. Carries an assortment of modern day brands like: Alice & Olivia, Ella Moss, Cynthia Vincent, Parker and Mara Hoffman

OndadeMar-Perfect one stop shop for bikinis, straw hats and beach bags. 231-A 8th street, Miami Beach. Ondademar.com

Curve Soleil Elegant beachwear comes in all categories, apparel, shoes and bags. 2381 Collins Ave, Gansevoort Hotel, shopcurve.com

W Hotel SOBE Carries beaded and embellished silk tunics and headpieces by Deepa Gurnani from India. Lobby Boutique inside W Hotel, 2201 Collins Ave

Scoop Miami-Carries a modern assortment similar to the Scoop beach store in East Hampton. Bikinis by DVF and sexy beach cover-ups by Elizabeth Hurley. The Shore Club Hotel, 1901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

Splash- Online boutique only ships from Miami. They carry the most exquisitely embellished kaftans and tunics. Some favorite picks are by Taj, Deepa Gurnani and Mara Hoffman. Shopsplash.com

South Beach Swimsuits has a chic assortment of beach wraps and bikinis by popular brands; Becca, VIx, Debbie Katz. Southbeachswimsuits.com

View online article via Jessica's column on examiner.com

Trends for Spring/Summer 2012 'Celebrity Stylist Summer Edition'

Jessica compiled these trends for a event she styled for People StyleWatch magazine. As a celebrity stylist she covered trends with focus on this season’s “must-have looks,”  featured in StyleWatch Magazine including fashion, beauty, and accessories.  Jessica guided consumers through the racks, educating them on high-end fashion and offering expert advice on which styles suit them best.  Participating sponsors provided select apparel and accessories. Photo gallery here

Jessica's article on Examiner: Miami fashion summer staple: Head scarf not just for Kate Moss

There is no accessory that can spruce up a wardrobe, add a dash of sophistication and is economically viable as this seasons hottest trend and perennial fashion fav– the headscarf. From the runways of Burberry, Gucci, Dolce and Gabbana to Proenza Schouler, the headscarf is the must-have accessory for every fashionista.

The scarf been around for more than a hundred years; comes in many colors, patterns and fabrics styles from thin silks to knitted, bulky winter yarns all of which, add an exotic or glamorous accent to nearly any look.

One of the ways to use your scarf is by making it a hair accessory. In fact, its one of the best solutions to keep hair in order, that can easily be spoiled by typical muggy and windy summer in Miami.

Ways to tie your headscarf:

Headband

For a glamorous look, ala Brigette Bardot, a scarf folded into a narrow band can be worn like a headband. Fold it into a long thin piece or strip. Place the center of the scarf over your head. Gather the ends of the scarf at your nape and tie both ends together.

This look is perfect for capturing the hippie chic look of the 60s and 70s.

Ponytail wrap

Replace an ordinary band with a scarf for a more stylish look. Tie your hair into a ponytail. Gather a scarf at the base of a ponytail and tie it over the ponytail covering the band and fluff out the ends of the scarf or twist the ends of the scarf around the loose hair of the ponytail. Then you have a look worthy of Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn.

Bandana

Look bohemian with this style.  First, tie your hair into a ponytail. Fold a scarf into a triangle and place the widest edge of the scarf on your forehead, just above your eyebrows. Put the ends at the back of your head just under your ponytail and knot them together. Let your hair loose. You can also try this method with your hair down. Just tuck other loose ends of the scarf under the knot at the back of your head and let all the ends of the scarf hang loose.

The Kelly scarf

This scarf head-wrapping style is named after Grace Kelly, actress in “To Catch a Thief” and princess of Monaco. Fold a square scarf into a triangle and wrap it around your head with a bow under your chin. This scarf-wrapping method is great to keep a hairstyle while traveling. Fold the scarf diagonally into half to form a triangle. Put the widest part of the scarf over your head. Bring the ends under your chin, cross them and bring the ends at the back of the head with each end at each side of the neck. Tie the ends at the back and tuck the other loose corners of the scarf at the back of the head under the knot. Put on a big pair of sunglasses and you’re good to go.

Crown

This style is elegant-looking. It is named as such because the scarf actually forms into a crown over the head. Start with an oblong or rectangular scarf.  Drape the scarf over your head and hand the ends down the body with one end longer than the other. Meet the two ends at the nape and cross them just behind your head. Now twist the longer end so that it will look like a ‘rope’. Then lay the twisted end at the top of the head approximately 1-2 inches from the front edge of the scarf. Meet the twisted end to the shorter end of the scarf at the back of the head and make a knot. You can tuck the ends under the scarf or let the ends loose to drape at the shoulders.

 

Scarves are practically the most versatile fashion accessory there is.  On days you’re not in the mood to wear it around your head, the headscarf can be transformed into a necktie or bow for a chic and classic look, worn around your waist to capture the Russian rocker look, or tie it around an old bag to transform it into a hot new piece.

For a certain "ladies that lunch" group, whether in the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s or through this first current 21st Century decade, the scarf has always been a de rigueur element of fashionable attire.

Immortalized by historic icons like Marilyn Monroe, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jean Shrimpton.

Today its been adopted by Lindsay Lohan, Britney Spears, Nicole Richie, Kate Moss, Jennifer Lopez and Paris Hilton.

"The headscarf is intimate, personal, an accessory you have a relationship with, in the way a woman doesn't even have with a pair of shoes," says Bali Barret, art director of Hermès' silks, who counts 200 among her personal stash and never leaves home without at least two in her bag. "It's very feminine, textural, carries your fragrance, allows you to wear colours and patterns that you might not dream of wearing in your clothes. Its association with style icons makes it almost mythical."

Fear not fashionista, it is never too late to invest in this stylish yet timeless wardrobe staple. The versatility of this must-have piece makes it perfect for a woman with a budget; a scarf should be everyone’s go-to accessory!

To purchase a new one go to Bella Racquella for a collection of headscarves designed by Coconut Grove resident Jill Fistel.

If you have a fashion related question or need advice contact: Jessica Rae Anderson.

For live article go to Examiner.com



Jessica's article for Examiner.com:Miami pool and seaside chic: Top twelve must-haves and boutique list

Why not take a lesson from one of the Miami’s devoted and glamorous beachgoers. If you recently dug yourself out from a blizzard up north and want to plan a trip to Miami, then you might enjoy these “Beach ready” tips.

Go from pool to party in my suggested versatile; body-conscious swimsuits, stylish cover-ups and vibrant sundresses that rule this category. My list of boutiques will ensure you make a fashionable statement no matter your beach of choice.

Twelve must-haves for a chic beach or poolside look.

1.Embellished tunic cover-up that takes you from pool to lunch then party.

2.Bikinis-one for swimming and another for sunbathing preferably bandeau style so you don’t have those unsightly strap    lines “true sign of a tourist” 

3. Straw hat

4. Oversized beach bag: preferably one that repels water & sand

5. Sunscreen wipes by Shady day

6. Embellished headpiece: essential for those windy beach days to keep your hair looking sleek

7.Embellished wedge/Espadrille with some glitter or studs

8. Statement jewelry: Oversized/chunky, Disc earrings, cuffs and rings to throw on for lunch or pool date paired with a tunic.

9. Instant spray tan:In a bottle or visit SOBE TAN by Fabiola- She is a local favorite,1623 Michigan Ave.

10. Oversized sunglasses (a few pairs)

11. Bright and sparkly mani/pedi: (Essie’s Spring Collection) layer the kisses & bises sparkle over any color

12. Pop pink lip-gloss with a slight sparkle (Lustreglass in Flusterose color by Mac)

Best Places for sophisticated beach cover-ups, tunics, swimwear, etc.

Debbie Katz just off Lincoln Rd. 1629 Alton Rd. 786-543-7074, debbiekatzsouthbeach.com. Known for her beach chic looks shop for luxurious beach cover-ups and tunics.

Jessie Boutique- just off Lincoln Rd. on Alton Rd. Carries an assortment of modern day brands like: Alice & Olivia, Ella Moss, Cynthia Vincent, Parker and Mara Hoffman

OndadeMar-Perfect one stop shop for bikinis, straw hats and beach bags. 231-A 8th street, Miami Beach. Ondademar.com

Curve Soleil Elegant beachwear comes in all categories, apparel, shoes and bags. 2381 Collins Ave, Gansevoort Hotel, shopcurve.com

W Hotel SOBE Carries beaded and embellished silk tunics and headpieces by Deepa Gurnani from India. Lobby Boutique inside W Hotel, 2201 Collins Ave

Scoop Miami-Carries a modern assortment similar to the Scoop beach store in East Hampton. Bikinis by DVF and sexy beach cover-ups by Elizabeth Hurley. The Shore Club Hotel,1901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

Splash- Online boutique only ships from Miami. They carry the most exquisitely embellished kaftans and tunics. Some favorite picks are by Taj, Deepa Gurnani and Mara Hoffman. Shopsplash.com

Beach Bunny Swimwear is a favorite among local beach lovers. Beachbunnyswimwear.com

South Beach Swimsuits has a chic assortment of beach wraps and bikinis by popular brands; Becca, VIx, Debbie Katz. Southbeachswimsuits.com

For live article go to:  http://www.examiner.com/fashion-in-miami/miami-pool-and-seaside-chic-top-twelve-must-haves-and-boutique-list



Huge Success for Miami at MOCA's annual fundraiser, "Surf's Up"

The Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami celebrated its annual MOCA Bash with "Surf's Up” last Saturday bringing in super eclectic crowd.  Over 500 tickets were sold to this unique cultural cocktail and dance party, which incorporated the theme of surfing thru set design, by Miami artists.

As you first entered the building you were greeted immediately with delicious bites, and bright neon wall murals evoking the surf lifestyle. The first room was overwhelming with hundreds of luxury auction items including original artwork, destination getaways, and VIP surfing lessons not to mention exotic destinations.

My hard work along with the other auction committee members really paid off bringing in over $100K. I am still waiting to hear if I won the basket from Sak’s full of designer perfumes, Men’s 5 pc. Custom shirt package and Hotel for 3 nights in Sundance, Idaho. Top Miami restaurants like Sushi Samba, China Grill, Adriana Restaurant, Meat Market, Asia de Cuba, Blue Door Delano, Nathan’s Hotdogs, and Shiraz Events Catering provided remarkable food. My favorite setup was from Stella’s Sweetshop with cupcakes and candies, perfect for the pregnant woman’s cravings. The DJ spinned retro beats from a lifeguard stand installation while retro beach bunnies danced throughout MOCA.

Another fun interactive aspect to the party the side room set up for free portraits of surf theme backgrounds provided by Robert James Photography.

Neon bars were situated throughout the event packed with drinks by GREY GOOSE Vodka cocktails, Samuel Adams Beer, Touch Catering wines, Vitamin Water, Fuji Water, and Vita Coco made sure that no one was left parched. The proceeds from this stellar party benefit the museum’s public programs and art acquisition fund. Being a lover of Miami it was really awesome to celebrate this cause along with South Florida’s most beautiful U.S. Coastline and spontaneity of board riders everywhere. This event left us all stoked!

Special Thanks to all my friends and their businesses that donated: 1OAK NY, Rustic Inn Jackson Hole, Adagion Wedding Studio, Little Castle Yacht tours, Dr. Lewis Feder, Wine & Roses NY, Yoly Munoz Couture, Nathan's Hotdogs, Miami Subs, and Namaskar Massage amongst others.



photos by: Alana Galloway