Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

Summer Fun at Faro Blanco

What:

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club 1996 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050

Why:

Everyone has their own version of heaven. I found mine a few weeks ago while standing on a dock at Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club in Marathon Key…

The sun was shining brightly on my shoulders, the warm, salty air was whipping around me and the brilliant blue water from the Gulf of Mexico splashed oh-so lazily beneath my feet. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and thought….

THIS-IS-PERFECT.

I first discovered Faro Blanco on one of my many jaunts to Key West. It’s located near the famous 7 Mile Bridge, about an hour north of the “Conch Republic”. I spotted its famous lighthouse from the Overseas Highway and decided to make an impromptu stop to explore the property.

I was immediately smitten with its beautiful marina and everything surrounding it (an upscale Hyatt Place Hotel, two pools, a fitness center and a waterfront restaurant called Light House Grill). A few months later…

I checked in for a quick, overnight getaway. That’s the great thing about The Florida Keys; it’s just so close to Miami and there’s always something new and exciting to explore. Every time I make my way south, I find myself falling in love with yet another hidden gem, like Faro Blanco (which, by the way, means “white lighthouse” in Spanish).

Originally built back in the 50’s, Faro Blanco has endured its share of bad weather, rebuilding several times. its latest overhaul (which was just last year) is the stuff dreams are made of; mixing sleek modern amenities with a “Cape Cod-ish” feel. My hotel room was spacious, comfy and just steps away from everything I needed and wanted…

I got all giddy on a life-size chessboard game, oohed & aahed my way up and down the marina (the yachts were incredible) and traipsed my way to the top of the historic lighthouse. As I peered out over the deep blue sea, I was overcome with happiness and chirped: “I’m the KING OF THE KEYS!” (of course, in dramatic fashion). Sigh. I love me a good Leo moment from the movie Titanic.

I explored the other side of the property, too, where I found a sweet little oasis, dressed in silky white sand complete with a few quirky palm trees. The view from that particular vantage point (which sprouts out from a jetty) is mesmerizing. It’s the perfect place to celebrate something special, like a wedding or, in my case, just taking a moment to let the unbridled beauty of the ocean and lighthouse sink in.

As I stood there contemplating “My-So-Called-Life,” I couldn’t believe Spring was coming to an end and Summer was about to begin. What’s more, I was flabbergasted because for the last five months, I had actually managed to keep my 2016 New Year’s resolutions (getting physically fit, so I get in touch with my sexy side and spending more time in The Florida Keys).

As of late, taking care of my mind and body had become my full-time, unadulterated passion and following through with my goals (not that I’m a sexy beast just yet) had really empowered me. “So — what’s next, Sandoval?” I muttered quietly to myself. The possibilities at that moment seemed endless. Perhaps, a return adventure to Faro Blanco to enjoy some of their cool water activities would be a good place to start…

They offer scuba diving, snorkeling, boat tours, paddle fit and sunset cruises, just to name a few. In other words, more rest, relaxation and “Summer Fun at Faro Blanco” … because now — it’s one of my new favorite things.

Where:

Faro Blanco is in Marathon Key at Mile Marker 48, which is about an hour north of Key West. There’s plenty of parking and if you’re on a boat, even better, you can enjoy their easy access, state-of-the art marina.

It’s also close to The Turtle Hospital, Aquarium Encounters and the Dolphin Research Center (which make for a perfect family outing) and…

Don’t miss Friday’s Spotlight, as I dine at Faro Blanco’s LightHouse Grill. Although the restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, they have a steak and Jalapeño Cucumber Martini that’ll knock your socks off.

Reservations: 305-743-1234 or www.faroblancoresort.com
FB: Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club, Twitter: @faroblancoresrt IG: @faro_blanco_resort

A vacation is like love — anticipated with pleasure, experienced with discomfort, and remembered with nostalgia.Unknown
All clothing & accessories provided by Banyan Tree Boutique, located in Islamorada in The Florida Keys.

Shop the looks www.banyantreeboutitque.com
IG: @BanyanTreeBoutique Twitter: @BanyanTreeKeys FB: The Banyan Tree

Gladiator Sandals provided by www.miashoes.com
Gold Lace-up’s & Red Sandals provided by www.viacapri34.com

James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
Hair/Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Editor: Matthew “Built back in the ’50’s” Auerbach

Special Thanks to Lisa Malcom from The Social Suite www.thesocialsuite.com.

Wednesday, May 25, 2016 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

Shireen's Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

Shireen's Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

Shireen's Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

Shireen's Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

Shireen's Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

Shireen's Spotlight: Kaori by Walter Martino

What:

Kaori by WM 1250 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33130

Why:

Kaori isn’t just a restaurant, it’s this incredible kaleidoscope of food, art and technology fused into a beyond-surreal dining experience. It’s so amazing and unusual — it’s like nothing I’ve ever encountered before.

Before Spotlight, I had heard A LOT about Kaori, but I couldn’t really wrap my mind around what some food critics were calling “a culinary theatre.” Deco Drive even did a whimsical feature on it, but the television camera only captured a fraction of its magic, which I wouldn’t fully understand until I dined there myself.

I arrived (with my crew) around 9pm on a Friday evening. I was tired from a busy week at work, but when I walked through the door, I felt strangely energized and incredibly interested in what was going on around me.

At first, Kaori comes across as pristine and intimate with colorful chairs, sleek glossy tables and white walls; but as you begin your dining experience, it transforms into something much, much bigger…

It’s a full journey of the five senses: sight, sound, smell, touch and most importantly, taste. Kaori is the brainchild of Executive Chef Walter Martino A.K.A the “Million Dollar Chef” (he’s called that because he created the most expensive plate in the world). Chef Martino uses “alchemy, beauty and 360-degree cinematography” to serve-up one helluva luxurious food adventure.

Usually, I start Spotlight with a few different drinks, but at Kaori my “rules” were quickly thrown out the proverbial food blog window and Chef Martino who, by the way, has the coolest laid-back personality, took complete charge. No doubt about it, he’s the ONLY chef in the kitchen.

I was told to sit back, relax and handed a (non-nicotine) vapor stick filled with a smooth lemon flavor to cleanse my palette. I puffed away, doing my best old movie star imitation.

The first thing to arrive at the table was a jaw-dropping presentation of White Tuna Ceviche and Stracciatella topped with Caviar and edible gold and silver flakes. Along with it, our first cocktail arrived, too, called the Celery Pepper (made by master mixologist Nick Nistico) with gin, celery, lime juice, simple syrup and peppercorn. It was tart and sophisticated.

Our next appetizer was a smashing presentation of two sushi rolls. The platter itself reminded me of a giving tree, with branches serving up a Tuna Tartar Roll (yellow fin, mango, iceberg, Kaori sauce and cilantro) and the Bresaola/Jamon Ibierico Roll (basically salted beef and cured ham).

The next dish was by far my favorite — I mean, what fashionista doesn’t love Veggie Tempura served-up inside a sassy shoe & matching purse!? The tempura was so succulent it practically melted in my mouth (it was a mix of green and white asparagus, scallions, baby beets, zucchini and carrots).

While devouring the fashionable veggies, the Spicy Pepper Caraway cocktail arrived and it was EVERYTHING. I love a strong, spicy drink and this one (made with infused Bacardi Maestro Rum, orange bell pepper, Sriracha, lime juice, simple syrup, cilantro olive oil and pepperoncino infused olive oil) was unusual perfection. This is a must-try if you like a kick in your cocktail.

For dinner, I dined on the Saffron and Black Squid Ink Risotto with Scampi and Carabineros Shrimp. I’m told the type of shrimp served with the risotto is some of the best in the world. The plate was indeed exquisite and even though they didn’t say salmon was in the recipe, it was. I think the Chef may have thrown it in for good measure and wow, it was nothing short of spectacular.

A beautiful plate of Ravioli was next, each different and intriguing. This dish really mixed unusual flavors; showcasing Chef Martino’s incredible talent. The first was filled with Gorgonzola and Pear, topped with Bronte Pistachio. The Second was stuffed with Osso Buco and topped with a fresh white nut sauce. Last, but not least, a raviolo Lobster, topped with Fresh Tomato Sauce and Scampi. Honestly, it’s impossible for me to pick a favorite, but the Pistachio was a complete winner for everyone at the table.

After our pasta, Nick arrived at the table with all the ingredients to make a Kaori Smoked Old Fashioned (bourbon, simple syrup and a pre-smoked glass with cherry wood). Right before my very eyes, he whipped up one of the most savory, rich and smokey cocktails I’d ever had the pleasure of drinking. It was a fun visual and the taste was excellent, too.

As I was drinking and eating my way through the delicious journey, colors, images and art work appeared and disappeared from Kaori’s walls. All of it seemed to be in harmony with whatever I was feasting on at the time. Even the music matched the visuals. All of it together heightened my senses and enriched my dining experience.

Even though, Chef Martino wanted to keep feeding us (because that’s just the kind of guy he is), we reluctantly asked to wrap up, so he sent out the Kaori Coconut Chocolate Cake topped with strawberry gelato and grated pistachio. Decorated with fresh flowers, it was beautiful, rich and refreshing.

Our last drink was a coffee aperitif called Perfect Carajillo (made with Zafra Master Reserve 21-year-old Rum, Licor 43, an Espresso Shot and Edible Silver Flakes). It was rich, buttery and strong.

At the end of dinner, I took a quick photo with Chef Martino and said my good-bye’s but the funny thing is, I didn’t want to leave. After three hours of mind-boggling delicious food and gorgeous visual accoutrements, I felt inspired and a part of something really special, but alas, the weekend beckoned me. My experience at Kaori was nothing short of extraordinary and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

Where:

Kaori is downtown Miami on Brickell. There’s street parking, but your best bet is the garage right across the street from the restaurant. It’s roomy and reasonable, which is hard to find in Miami these days. If you fully wanna enjoy the evening, though, I highly recommend Uber’ing it. Cheers!

When:

Tuesday – Sunday open for Dinner 6pm -12 midnight
Closed Mondays

Book a table: reservations@kaoribywm.com or call 785-805-6006

www.kaoribywm.com
FB: Kaori by Walter Martino IG: @kaoribywm Twitter: @kaoribywm

If you really want to make a friend, go to someone’s house and eat with him. The people who give you their food give you their heart.Cesar Chavez
James Woodley Photography
Produced by Jessie Rosario
Styling: Jackie Kay
wardrobe: www.filomenafernandez.com
Editor: Matthew “Whimsical Editor” AuerbachSpecial Thanks to Lisandra Carballosa

Friday, May 20, 2016 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

The Bark & The Beautiful

The Bark & The Beautiful

The Bark & The Beautiful

The Bark & The Beautiful

The Bark & The Beautiful

The Bark & The Beautiful

The Bark & The Beautiful

What:

Salon Bark, 6274 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33308

Why:

I can’t explain it, but when I first saw Rigby, I just knew he was my dog. He was sitting demurely in a corner inside one of the holding cells at the Miami-Dade Humane Society. When I spotted him, I walked up to the glass, flashed my best smile and cooed something sweet in his direction. Even though he couldn’t hear me, he wagged his tail and batted his eyelashes. I was in LOVE. I snapped a picture for good measure.

Strangely, he wasn’t the kind of animal I thought I would be attracted to. Don’t judge me, but I was set on adopting a small lap dog, one I could carry around in a pretty purse, bedazzle with sassy bows and dress up in cute outfits, but after seeing Rigby (his already given name), something about him changed me.

I left the shelter that day (after filling out the required paperwork and leaving a strong request to adopt Rigby) with mixed emotions. I was on the fence about getting a pet. I wanted a dog, but after my petite Pomeranian passed away (almost ten years earlier), I was irretrievably heartbroken and honestly…

I didn’t think I could bare a loss like that again, so I let fate take its course. A few days later, the good folks at the Humane Society (more specifically, the sweetest and most spirited woman named Dayle), called me and explained Rigby needed a couple of surgeries before I could adopt him. She promised she’d call me the second he was available.

I’d never adopted an animal before, so I took the news as a form of rejection. I was disappointed, but thought perhaps, it wasn’t meant to be. About a week later, Dayle (who promised she’d call again) did just that and told me Rigby was ready to be picked up and taken home. Picked up?!! Taken home?

I panicked.

All of these crazy thoughts went through my head. What if he doesn’t like me? What if I wasn’t ready to be a doggie mommy and what if he was nuts? My boyfriend, James, said: “Well, then he’ll fit right in.” We stopped by the pet store and got everything we could think of and then other things we didn’t think of and then things we didn’t need. (You know, just in case…)

Shortly after, we arrived at the Humane Society, where Dayle ushered us into a private family room to meet Rigby for the very first time. He was anxious, hyper and sweet. We petted him and tried making a connection, but he was distraught and confused. It didn’t matter, though, because I knew deep down inside that he was supposed to be my dog.

Rigby took to James much quicker, which confused me, but I took it in stride and loved him the best I knew how (with all of my heart). He had been left alone a lot, had scars on his arms from being caged and was desperate for love and attention. Well, he was definitely in the right place…

It’s only been four months, but it’s been a sweet, intimate and unadulterated love affair. Rigby has healed me, as much as I hope that I have healed him. We snuggle in the morning, take long walks, watch movies and live our lives the best we know how — together. He’s my best friend.

I also take an obscene amount of pictures of Rigby and post them all over social media. Yes, I’m that annoying girl. Which, by the way, prompted one of my good friends and designers, Carlos Marrero to text me about something: “You are totally going to gag over!”

Gag is a good thing when you’re talking to Carlos. It’s the ultimate compliment. Meaning, it’s so good, you won’t be able to breath and then, you’ll choke because it’s so fabulous! Carlos was talking about a place called: SALON BARK.

He told me: “Shireen, it’s a place where you can take your dog to be pampered and at the same time, YOU can shop for the latest and greatest in fashion.” Of course, I was confused and quizzed him. “You mean, shop for myself and take my dog?” I asked. “Yezzzzzz,” he chirped. “You have to check the place out. It’s so-o-o-o you!” He said, dramatically.

Salon Bark is the brainchild of Danielle Gaudreau (a pretty and vivacious blonde), who created the boutique-slash-luxury pet spa because she couldn’t choose between two of her favorite things: animals and fashion. Her boutique is warm, welcoming and chock-full of pretty much anything you can think of…

Purses, jewelry, clothing, scarves and whimsical house accessories. You can shop for your dog, too. Whether it’s a bedazzled collar, sassy carrier or chic leash, Salon Bark has something for every fashionista and her favorite furry friend. Hence the title of the blog, “The Bark & The Beautiful,” but that’s not all…

You can pamper your puppy with a Paw-dicure, Blueberry Facial, Mud Mask, Blow-Out or Hair-cut (which are just a few of the luxurious services Salon Bark offers).

What I liked most about my visit (with Rigby in tow), was Danielle’s kindness. I was beyond worried about taking my puppy on his first major field trip, but Rigby was welcomed with open-arms and spoiled in the exact same way that I would spoil him, if not more.

Danielle (and her husband, whom she calls the Dog Whisperer), really do have a special way with animals. It’s a rare connection that can’t be faked. Rigby was definitely the KING of Salon Bark, if only for a few short hours. He got treats, toys, kisses, hugs and well, the list goes on…

Don’t miss Deco Drive tonight as we go inside this charming boutique where fashionistas and their four-legged friends can enjoy some major retail therapy, doggie spa treatments and most importantly, do it all while spending quality time together.

BTW, Carlos was totally right. Salon Bark IS my kind of place. After all, I only want the best for Rigby and maybe a little extra something for myself, too and that’s why “The Bark and The Beautiful,” is one of my favorite things.

Where:

The Promenade at Bay Colony in Fort Lauderdale. There’s plenty of parking, but if you can’t make it to Salon Bark, they have a luxury mobile spa “equipped with all the fancy, state-of-the-art equipment to make your dog feel like a celebrity.”

When:

Monday-Saturday from 8:30am-5pm. Private shopping available by appointment.

www.salonbark.com
Twitter: @SalonBark IG: @salonbark FB: Salon Bark
Call for a spa appointment: 954-491-1119

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.Anatole France

All clothing and accessories for Rigby and myself were provided by Salon Bark. Prices available upon request.

James Woodley Photography
Styling by Jackie Kay
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Editor: Matthew “Dogboy” Auerbach

Special Thanks to Designer Carlos Marrero

Wednesday, May 18, 2016 Shireen's Favorite Things , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

What:

Bice Ristorante 313 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida 33480

Why:

After an incredible day of “Exploring Worth Avenue,” I wasn’t just hungry, I was famished and ready for an adult beverage (or two). Lucky for me, my shopping experience ended right in front of the pathway leading to the yummy and delicious “BICE”…

The place was undeniably charming before I even walked through its doors, with a comfortably-packed outdoor patio area (I entered through the Worth Avenue side) featuring tables draped in flouncy green umbrellas, allowing diners to easily enjoy the beautiful weather.

Lush greenery surrounded the bistro and gorgeous purple flowers dripped lazily off a perfectly placed trellis. Inside, BICE was just as warm and welcoming, with large airy windows drenched in the late afternoon sun. I especially liked its creamy-white decor with accents of gold and smatterings of dark wood.

I started Spotlight with three of their signature martinis: Bella Rosa, BICE and The Underground. If you like sweet, the Bella is for you (made with orange and raspberry vodka, Chambord, cranberry & OJ). My favorite was the BICE. It’s no secret, mama likes a strong drink! (It was made with Tito’s Vodka *marinated* with oranges, limes and cherries with a splash of OJ). My photographer, James, called dibs on the Underground. It’s a man’s kind of cocktail (made with Rye Whiskey, sweet vermouth and Sicilian blood orange liquor).

We tried three amazing appetizers, starting with the Mozzarella Di Bufala Caprese (buffalo mozzarella, vine ripened tomatoes, basil and oregano). My favorite was the incredibly clean and fresh Tartare Di Tonno Con Avocado. I could eat this dish for the rest of my natural-born life (made with tuna tartare, avocado, cucumber relish and soy-mango sauce). The Gamberoni Alla Griglia was almost too pretty to eat, but somehow I managed (made with grilled jumbo shrimp, arugula and hearts of palm).

For dinner, we tried a little bit of everything: fish, meat and pasta. If you’re watching your waistline, the Branzino Alla Griglia Con Salmoriglio (grilled striped bass & sauteed veggies) is perfect. If you’re a carnivore, the Lombata Di Vitello Al Forno Con Salsa Di Funghi (grilled veal chop with marsala & wild mushroom jus and sautéed broccoli rabe) is oh, so, tender and juicy. And finally, my “I’ve died and gone to heaven meal,” the Pappardelle Al Telefono Alla Bice (wide homemade noodles with a tomato cream sauce, fresh mozzarella and basil). This dish is EVERYTHING — or as the kids say on social media these days: “It gives me life.”

For dessert (believe me, I was stuffed, but you can’t go to an Italian restaurant like this one and tell them you’re too full for dessert!) I had three glorious dishes. First up, a plate full of house-made cookies (called Biscotti Misti). Some crunchy cookies and a nice strong coffee is always a great way to end a meal. Their version of Key Lime Pie (called Torta di Lima) is just as fab, made with whipped cream and raspberry sauce. Last, but definitely not least: Tiramisu Alla BICE con Salsa Al Caffe. Translation — lady fingers dipped in espresso coffee, mascarpone cream mousse and cocoa. Also known as FANTASTIC!

What I love about BICE (besides the amazing food) is the fact that everything is well thought-out, meticulously crafted and beautifully plated. Executive Chef Elmer Noel Saravia is a genius at balancing flavors and aesthetics (no easy task).

BICE isn’t just a place to eat, drink and be merry, it’s also a place in which you’ll wanna linger, because the aftertaste is just as good as the experience itself and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

When:

Monday-Sunday 11:30am-10:30pm

For reservations:
www.bice-palmbeach.com
FB:BICE Palm Beach IG: @BicePalm

Life is a combination of magic and pasta.Federico Fellini
James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe: www.DVF.com
Editor: Matthew “Aftertaste” Auerbach

Produced by Luxury PR Group
http://luxuryprgroup.com
IG: @luxuryprgroup Twitter: @WeAreLuxuryPR FB: Luxury PR Group

(Special thanks to Marianna Dubois & Kristen Noffsinger)

Friday, May 13, 2016 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

Exploring Worth Avenue

What:

Shopping on the famed & fabulous Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, Florida.

Why:

On a bright, crystal clear Saturday morning, my photographer (James) and I drove leisurely up the coast of Florida toward Palm Beach to spend a day shopping on Worth Avenue. Ooh la la! I was beyond excited…

Getting an inside look at one of the most glamorous shopping destinations in the country has always been a fashionable dream of mine. Before we arrived, though, I was mesmerized by the view.

As we snaked our way up the shoreline, the sun danced its way across the ocean onto land, illuminating some of the most palatial and perfectly manicured mansions I’d ever seen. Wow! Talk about awe-inspiring.

When I arrived at Worth Avenue, I was just as impressed. The pristine palm tree-lined street wasn’t just a chic oasis filled with beautiful shops. It had secrets, too, and I love secrets: mysterious pathways leading to courtyards filled with flowers, lush greenery, statues and fountains where even more shops, galleries and restaurants wait to be explored.

I’ve traveled to Europe a lot for work and Worth Avenue has that same kind of flair. Which isn’t surprising when you learn about its history. Back in the day (the early 1900’s), Worth Avenue became famous because of “The Everglades Club”…which was originally built by famed architect, Addison Mizner, as a hospital for wounded soldiers.

Eventually, Mizner (and friends) turned it into a shi-shi private resort. From there, upscale stores started popping up all around it and by the 1920’s, the place was booming with high quality merchandise and the rest is, as they say, fashion history.

The great thing about “Exploring Worth Avenue” is there’s definitely something for everyone, which I wasn’t sure about before I actually did the blog. Even though there are indeed luxury brands, most of the shops are locally-owned and accessible to the everyday person. Case-in-point, a boutique called Kiosk; my first stop while “Exploring Worth Avenue”…

Kiosk is this uber-chic, totally whimsical store like nothing I’ve ever seen before. Its owner (Natascha, a beautiful redhead from the Midwest) procures fashion and accessories from all over the world. The store is nothing short of jaw-dropping.

If you love the unique and unusual, this place will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. I’ve seen a lot of clothing in my time, but Kiosk is so freaking fabulous, I can’t wait to go back. What’s more, certain items are very affordable. I’m the kind of fashionista who shops hard, but buys smart.

Kristen Noffsinger, from Luxury PR Group, styled me in some amazing retro looks from Kiosk with an extra dash of funkiness. Both Kristen and I love the quirky and unexpected, with a hint of sophisticated romance. When I showed her one of our final blog pictures, she mused: “You look like the Alice in Wonderland of fashion.”

My next stop was Escada, one of my favorite luxury brands. Their clothes are a mix of modern glamour and bold elegance. I adored how they styled me, too, crossing sophisticated femininity with youthful flirty-ness — and who doesn’t love a bright red structured bag? It should be a staple in every fashionista’s wardrobe. How about a buttery yellow to-die-for-fold-over clutch? It was so soft and supple, I wanted to sleep with it!

After Escada, we meandered our way over to Calypso, which to me has always been the epitome of classy, bohemian beach living and the quintessential expression of Palm Beach style. The Worth Avenue store itself is a hidden gem, too: tucked away inside a quiet little courtyard that reminds me of something you’d see in the Greek Isles.

Wearing Calypso’s own label, laid-back glamour was the goal. The handmade detailing of the two dresses they styled were exquisite and the accessories were a subtle extension of both looks. And those petite clutches! OMG. Both were so spirited, adding extra pizzazz to an already WOW look. Now, to those shoes…

More specifically, the sandals. While “Exploring Worth Avenue,” we trailed down a mysterious narrow path (one of those aforementioned secrets) to visit “Via Capri, 34” — an intimate airy boutique, where Francesco Pasta (who’s actually from Capri, Italy) measures your feet and makes your shoe wardrobe complete with a pair of custom made sandals.

For me, the entire process of picking out my own style and everything that went along with it (leather, detailing and color) was incredibly gratifying. Then, to have them made right before my very eyes, well, that was pretty much the bomb-dot-com. It’s what Francesco’s wife Jessica describes as: “More than just shopping, it’s a true experience.” And, she’s exactly right…

Put it this way: the sandals are so good, Jessica (who was vacationing in Capri when she met Francesco) ended up with way more than just sassy sandals. After swamping emails and corresponding for a few years, they ended up getting hitched. Man, not only did she get the guy, but I’d kill to see her shoe wardrobe.

She’s a modern day Cinderella of sorts. You know the saying: “If the shoe fits..” yada-yada. You can’t make this stuff up! My experience at their store was one of the many reasons “Exploring Worth Avenue”… is so *WORTH* it.

You can easily make a day of it: drive up the coast, explore, shop til’ you drop and eat. Speaking of, don’t miss Friday’s Spotlight featuring “Bice Ristorante” which is also on the avenue. The pasta is beyond divine and their tiramisu is my newest obsession (and I’m not a sweets eater).

“Exploring Worth Avenue” was a new adventure for me and I adored everything about it, especially its visual appeal. It truly is a chic oasis with all of these amazing nooks and crannies to unearth and fall in love with. Plus, the shopping is like NO other place in the country and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

Where:

http://worth-avenue.com/
Twitter: @WorthAvePB IG: @worthavenuepalmbeach FB: Worth Avenue Palm Beach

Crying is for plain women. Pretty women go shopping.Oscar Wilde

James Woodley Photography
Editor: Matthew “Shop Hard, Buy Smart” Auerbach

produced by Luxury PR Group
http://luxuryprgroup.com
IG: @luxuryprgroup Twitter: @WeAreLuxuryPR FB: Luxury PR Group

(Special thanks to Marianna Dubois & Kristen Noffsinger)

Shop the looks below…

Look 1 & 2, Orange & Black Outfits (dresses, jewelry, purses and shoes) by Kiosk
http://www.shopkiosk.com
FB: Kiosk Palm Beach IG: @kioskpalmbeach
styling: Kristen Noffsinger

Look 3 & 4, Black/White Outfit & White Jacket with Leafy Green Skirt (clothing, purses & accessories) by Escada
http://us.escada.com
FB: Escada Twitter: @Escada IG: @Escada
styling: Escada

Look 5 & 6, Dark Blue Kaftan & White/Teal Gown (clothing, accessories & purse) by Calypso St. Barth
http://www.calypsostbarth.com
FB: Calypso St. Barth Twitter: @CalypsoStBarth
IG: @CalypsoStBarth

Silver bedazzled & grecian lace-up sandals provided by Via Capri, 34
http://viacapri34.com
FB: Via Capri, 34 Twitter: @ViaCapri34 IG: @viacapri34

(prices available upon request)

Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , , , , ,