BCBG | Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

What:

An early Sunday evening dinner in the courtyard garden of Louie Bossi on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

Why:

The energy inside “Louie Bossi” is infectious, the crowd vibrant and the food fantastic. The sprawling dining area, which is flanked by an open-air kitchen, gives way to a warmly-lit bar, but it’s what’s in back of the restaurant that’s truly special…

With shabby/chic decor, iron rod trimmings and ivy-drenched walls, the covered patio garden has the charm of an Italian piazza with a hint of South Florida flair. That’s where I decided to enjoy my Spotlight experience.

I started with three adult beverages: Pineapple Martini, Aperol Spritz and Bossi Beer.

The martini started sweet (with infused pineapple vodka,) but ended spicy, thanks to well-placed oil chili drops. The spritzer (said in my best Long Island accent) was smooth and refreshing with Prosecco, club soda and Aperol (which is a sweet Italian aperitif.) I also tried a glass of the light and fruity Birra Di Bossi (a basil-orange pilsner.) Hmmm…I love me a good light beer and live for a great martini, but it’s the spritzer I was gaga for — nothing like some icy goodness on a hot summer day.

Warm homemade bread, smelling divine, arrived at the table. It was so soft and good-looking, I think I was actually flirting with it. 😗

Almost everything at “Louie Bossi” is made from scratch; you can totally tell by how each delicious carb melts in your mouth (to think this started as a fashion blog!) There’s nothing like homemade bread and pasta — sorry Prada, you got nada… on this.

As of late, foodies in South Florida can’t get enough of the octopus trend and doing Spotlight means I’ve had it “every which way but loose.” That being said, “Louie Bossi’s” Spanish version, served with fingerling potatoes and cherry tomatoes, is as good as it gets. It’s grilled to perfection, with hints of wood-burning yumminess. I’m told it’s a customer favorite and I can see why.

Talk about impressive: our curated Charcuterie Board was off the charts. Not only was it awe-inspiring to look at, but mixing and matching the cheese, meats and other goodies was a taste bud awakening.

Here’s a list of some of our samplings: three different kinds of salami, Di Parma, Burrata, Pecorino, Robiola, Fontina Vale D’ Astota, figs, almonds, bread sticks and a mix of pickled red peppers, paprika peppers and corn flakes.

I tried two main entrees — the tender and flaky Grilled Bronzino (made with with parsley, chilies and capers.) It came with a side of mind-blowing cauliflower. As a writer, I’ve never used “mind-blowing” and “cauliflower” in the same sentence, but I’m not even joking. It’s crazy good, mixed in some secret pesto sauce.

If you prefer something meatier, try the Ribeye. I got the 24 ounce “sliced for two” (cooked medium.) It came with a side of Cacio E Pepe. Oh, pasta Gods, why do you do this to me? Of course, if you know me, steak and spaghetti are my two favorite foods on earth. So, I was pretty much in hog heaven. I’d be lying if I didn’t go on and on about the pasta. Tossed with pecorino Romano and cracked pepper, it’s love in a bowl. Simple and delicious (served in a heated dish.)

I started screaming: “It’s my birthday! It’s my birthday!” when dessert showed up. Technically, it’s not until next month, but with its celebratory nature, I couldn’t help myself. LOL. 😍

The gigantic plate was jammed-packed with Italian classics: Cannoli with pistachio, Tiramisu, Gelato, Budino Cioccolata (which is like custard or pudding,) cookies and, last but not least, cheesecake with a sparkler to boot. Holy sweets, Batman! The cheesecake was another level of fabulousness. I washed it all down with a Fumoso (a smoky Limoncello made with dry ice.)

When you’re a foodie, falling for “Louie Bossi” is pretty easy: it’s got it all. What I like most is the QUALITY. It’s first class and when you work hard for your money, it feels good spending it on something that’s WORTH IT and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

When:

Monday-Thursday 11:30am-1am
Friday & Saturday 11:30am-2pm
Sunday 10am-1am

Where:

Louie Bossi
1032 E Las Olas Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale 33301

Be Social:
FB: Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria
IG: @louiebossi
Twitter: @LouieBossi

The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.Julia Child

James Woodley Photography
Producer/Styling: Jackie Kay
Body Suit: Lilac & Lilies Boutique, Skirt: Hollen & Jen Vintage,
Necklace: BCGB South Beach, Purse: Koko & Palenki Aventura
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Shabby/chic” Auerbach

Friday, July 28, 2017 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Cocktails, Fort Lauderdale, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Koko & Palenki, Lilac & Lilies Boutique, Louie Bossi's

The 12 Minute Escape

What:

A new rest & relaxation treatment called “Timeless Capsule” at Ritz-Carlton, South Beach and yes, it only takes 12 minutes. The question is: does it really work?

Why:

My daily life is crazy. It goes something like this…

Alarm, iPhone, computer, coffee, eat, work-out, shower, sit in traffic, get to work, hair, make-up, meet early writing deadlines, live television, eat, meet late writing deadlines, live television, drive home, sleep, repeat.

In between those moments — there are blogs to be written, pictures to be taken, social media postings to be tended to, a boyfriend to spend time with, a dog to be loved and a life to be lived. Who has time for rest & relaxation?

Well, according to the good folks over at Ritz-Carlton, South Beach (who’ve just given their spa a gorgeous renovation,) I actually DO have time.

Maybe not a lot of it, but just enough to give myself a much-needed break during one of my hectic days.

It’s called: “Timeless Capsule” and it only takes 12 minutes.

It’s a specialized seating area of the spa featuring two massage chairs.

One is called “Fusion + Studio” — the other — “ZG Recliner.”

I chose the recliner because it reminded me of something you would see on the bridge of the Starship Enterprise, plus it promised a zero gravity-like effect. I always wanted to be a stylish astronaut.

BTW, during your quick beauty fix there’s no disrobing, sticky oils or excess creams that usually leave you looking like a hot mess.

Instead, you just wear your work clothes and have a seat. Once you’ve reclined (under the watchful eye of a therapist,) your scalp or neck and feet are rubbed into submission and the “ZG Recliner” does, in fact, suspend you into a neutral position.

During my time in the pod area, the pain I usually feel in my lower back, hips and knees grew weaker until it eventually subsided and before I knew it, I was surprisingly relaxed. It was H-E-A-V-E-N.

Tonight on Deco Drive, we’re featuring the “Fusion + Studio” chair as well, which uses sight, sound, touch and smell to relax you. Don’t miss the show at 7:30 & 11:30pm as we get totally zen (in no time at all.)

Life is busy, I get it, but taking time for yourself is as important as all the other stuff, even if it means squeezing in “The 12 Minute Escape” and yes, it works; that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
One Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, Florida 33139

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/miami/south-beach

Be Social

FB: @ritzcarltonsouthbeach
IG: @ritzcarlton #SouthBeach
Twitter: @RitzCarlton #SouthBeach

A woman’s beauty is not a gift to man – only a bribe.Ralph Waldo Emerson

Photographer: James Woodley Photography
dress: @bcbgsouthbeach
jewelry: @yvonnerose.shop
purse: @stevemadden
Styling: Jackie Kay
Grooming: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Recliner” Auerbach

Wednesday, July 12, 2017 Shireen's Favorite Things BCBG, James Woodley Photography, Steve Madden, The Ritz Carlton, Yvonne Rose

A Stylish SoFlo Soiree

What:

A fashionable gathering at The Betsy Hotel celebrating Ready-To-Wear Fall/Winter Trends 2017 with Fashion Group International of South Florida.

Why:

I’m always inspired by the world around me, especially stylish people and the chance to spend the afternoon with “Fashion Group International of South Florida” (A.K.A the movers and shakers of Miami fashion,) was no different.

The organization, which is a global, non-profit, professional group, is made up of people who help one another turn their stylish dreams into a fashionable reality. FGI also gives its members access to people who have insight into what’s going on in the fashionable world around them.

Enter: Shireen’s Favorite Things & Deco Drive TV.

As a Television Host/Fashion Reporter & Blogger, I was invited to take part in a special Q&A , alongside my stylist, Jackie Kay, about what’s going on in the world of Miami Fashion.

For about an hour (which was moderated by the amazing Tara Gilani, also known as the Trend Tracker,) we talked about clothing, accessories, shoes, social media, red carpets, movies, movie stars, TV shows, TV stars, politics and art, and how all of these topics shape the world around us and, in turn, produce fashion that’s more fluid, open, textured and incredibly provocative.

That’s exactly what the Ready-To-Wear Fall/Winter 2017 Trend slide presentation expressed, too. When the group gets together, they view Haute Couture slide shows of the latest and greatest runway fashions from Milan, Paris, New York City, just to name a few.

In television, we tend to talk AT people, giving them all important information. I can’t help but wonder, though, if sometimes we’re truly listening. These days, information comes at a breakneck speed and having a conversation isn’t always the way we go about journalism, but the Q&A at the event was exactly that — a conversation.

And something I appreciated and learned from. Despite having strong opinions, I respect what others say; it opens up a much-needed dialogue in my mind about the all important ideas of what others think and feel.

Fashion isn’t just about what you put ON your body, it’s about the emotions it inspires, hence the “lifestyle” aspect of how designers promote themselves in this day and age.

Each blog I write is inspired by a happening in my life, but this one was also inspired by the look I chose to wear.

I saw the dress about a month ago on BCBG’s (South Beach) Instagram page. I fell in love with its romantic personality and boho sensuality.

With the help of my good friend Marina (who helps style me for BCBG,) we put together this special look and I knew I wanted to wear it to “A Stylish SoFlo Soiree”.

In a world where everything is changing at a rapid pace and what we feel, think and do about it actually matters, it’s nice to enjoy an afternoon with like-minded people who want more than just a nice outfit but also, a meaningful display of artistic expression…

And that’s why “A Stylish Soflo Soiree” is one of my favorite things.

Where:

Learn more about Fashion Group International at www.southflorida.fgi.org.

Be Social:
Twitter: @FGISouthFlorida
IG: @fgisouthflorida
FB: Fashion Group International, South Florida

Shot on location at www.betsyhotel.com
IG: @thebetsyhotel FB: @thebetsyhotel Twitter: @TheBetsyHotel

You’re only given a little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it.Robin Williams

Photographer: James Woodley Photography
dress, jewelry, belt, bag & shoes by BCBG South Beach @BCBGSouthBeach
Styling: Shireen & Marina
Grooming: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew (“Mover & Shaker”) Auerbach

special thanks to Marina of BCBG/Herve Leger & Tara Gilani

Wednesday, July 5, 2017 Shireen's Favorite Things BCBG, Betsy Hotel, Fashion Group International, James Woodley Photography

Life is Beautiful

What:

A day of shopping and playing dress-up at the beautiful bohemian lifestyle boutique, “Polished Coconut,” where I was reminded that “Life is Beautiful” even when it doesn’t feel that way.

Why:

Sometimes, I feel like I’m losing my mind and I don’t say that lightly.

With the confusing state of our government, the aggressive nature of living in a big city and how, last Wednesday night, my entire world was almost ripped apart after 3 aggressive UNLEASHED Rottweilers attacked my loving boyfriend, James and sweet dog, Rigby.

It was 24 hours of pure terror and chaos. There was blood everywhere, I was hysterical (which is not good in an emergency situation) and I felt very much alone…

Making my way to the ER, getting to the doggie hospital, coping with their injuries and figuring out the best line of treatment for both James and Rigby.

I’m good at being a sick person (most of you know my fight with GBS) but trauma like this, it’s different. It’s raw, frightening and rips you apart in an instant.

After the initial attack, there’s the aftermath: the medicine, the bandages, the emotional wounds and then there’s that “thing” waiting on you. It’s lingering in the back of your mind, but you can’t seem to wrap your head around it — normal, everyday life.

Work was waiting for me. The blog was waiting for me. Television doesn’t stop, social media doesn’t stop and the internet doesn’t stop. Yet sometimes, you HAVE to stop because life gives you NO OTHER CHOICE.

Even though I wasn’t the one attacked, even though it wasn’t my flesh ripped apart, my body thrashed about; it felt that way. I knew I had to get myself together.

After a few days, despite feeling liking a zombie, there I was, getting my hair and make-up done for work, making sure my life – our life – wasn’t in jeopardy of really going off the deep end.

I showed up at Polished Coconut in Coconut Grove on time and ready for the day. That’s when “Life is Beautiful” happened…

When you walk into the boutique, it’s this intoxicating mix of earthy glamour and decadent designs. Every corner is curated with something undeniably eye-catching and different, but that’s not what makes it beautiful…

It’s Alicia Kossick, the store’s owner, who’s taken her love of fashion and turned it into a socially responsible lifestyle brand.

She doesn’t just go around the world shopping to bring you the unique and unusual; she works with about 200 artisans, who all happen to be WOMEN. And…

Those artisans don’t just handcraft clothing, jewelry and home accessories to preserve their culture, they’re helping sustain a viable local economy, allowing South Floridians to shop small and in turn, strengthening our own community (all while supporting women.)

“Polished Coconut” is warm, welcoming and you’ll get lost in discovery, only to be brought back to reality by Scarlett, the store’s official doggie mascot, who is more than happy to accompany you during your eclectic treasure hunt.

During a time when our country seems a bit lost, our city is riddled with crime and less compassion and three Rottweilers can roam unleashed, it’s good to know there are people out there like Alicia, who are consciously making the world a better place by caring, creating jobs and giving back to the community.

Don’t miss Deco Drive tonight at 7:30/11:30pm as we go inside “Polished Coconut” to show you how visually amazing it is; you’ll meet Alicia, too. I’m sure you’ll fall in love just like I did, because “Life is Beautiful” should be everyone’s favorite thing.

PS-James and Rigby are feeling better. The healing is slow, but we’re all recovering, one day at a time.

Where:

Polished Coconut
3444 Main Highway
Coconut Grove 33133

When:

Monday-Saturday: 11am-6pm
Sunday: 12-5pm

Be social:
IG: @PolishedCoconut
FB: @PolishedCoconut
Twitter: @PolishedCoconut

www.PolishedCoconut.com

A strong woman looks a challenge in the eye and gives it a wink.Gina Carey

Photographer: James Woodley Photography
Jewelry, Clothing & Styling: Polished Coconut
Blue pom-pom heels by #BCBGSouthBeach, wrap gladiator sandal by #ViaCapri34 and sparkly sneakers by #PolishedCoconut
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “James/Rigby” Auerbach

Wednesday, May 24, 2017 Shireen's Favorite Things BCBG, Coconut Grove, James Woodley Photography, Polished Coconut, Via Capri 34

Made With Love

What:

Designing something special for Mother’s Day at Kendra Scott at their beautiful new location inside Brickell City Centre, downtown Miami, but first…

Why:

I used to hate mandated holidays: Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day — you name it, I turned my nose up at it.

It always seemed like forced happiness and even a bit passive-aggressive. Letting pop culture predicate how I should think and feel was totally lame; not to mention, it gouged me for my hard-earned money. No, thank you.

Then, well, life happens…

You grow up, find a career, work like crazy, work some more, get married, divorced, lose a child, sometimes you even get sick (with GBS) and by the grace of God, you get better and well, somewhere along the way you grow up and stop being such a twit.

You realize how special and fleeting life is and how much every moment you can spend with the people you love matters. It’s the most important part of life. Love is the essence of being human.

Even if that means learning to accept, enjoy and celebrate mandated holidays. As a working professional, I’m either coming or going; there’s really no in-between.

So, when a special day comes along to stop my busy life and acknowledge someone that I care about, well, it feels good — at least for the most part.

Mother’s Day is particularly hard for me, but it’s also special. For a fleeting moment, I was someone’s mother (her name was Sydney,) but she disappeared. Death does that.

My Deco Drive co-host, Lynn, disagrees. She says I will always be Sydney’s mother — always — and no one can ever take that away from me. The tattoo underneath my forearm is dedicated to my baby girl.

When I first got it, it was my desperate attempt at manifesting what Lynn said. Always. Forever. Endlessly. Now, my tattoo is a memory, sometimes a painful one that I’d rather forget, but how could I? How could ANY mother?

Luckily, that pain and grief doesn’t overshadow the beautiful mothering I’ve had in my own life (from my boyfriend, best friend, therapist, colleagues, mother, step-mother, even myself.)

If you look up the word “Mothering”, the essence of its definition is “nurturing” and that’s something we should all do more of and not just on mandated holidays.

I hope by sharing some of my thoughts and experiences, I can help nurture someone/anyone who’s reading this. Whether it’s a loss, a gain or status quo, when it comes to MOM — it’s all important. And it’s all worthy of being “Made With Love”…

That’s why I chose “Kendra Scott” jewelry boutique at Brickell City Centre for this blog. For Mother’s Day, they have a special way to express your love and it’s not just buying a bauble and calling it a day.

Instead, it’s about designing a one-of-a-kind personalized piece of jewelry at their famed Color Bar.

You choose everything: from the accessory, to the metal, even the stone. And just like that, it’s made right in front of you. By the way…

Kendra happens to be one of my favorite designers. Mainly because of her mantra, which is “family first, then philanthropy and (of course) fashion”. It’s something I strive for, too.

If you haven’t been to her new downtown location, you’re definitely missing out. The store is gorgeously designed to look like a jewelry box or, at least, it seems that way.

For the blog, the goal of mixing Kendra’s classic designs with her new summer collection was to evoke a sophisticated beach look. The pieces are a sure reflection of our beloved surf, sand and sunshine.

Don’t miss Deco Drive tonight at 7:30 & 11:30 pm as we go inside Kendra Scott at Brickell City Centre. We aren’t just making mom a priority, we’re showcasing jewelry that will make every woman feel special and that’s why “Made With Love” is one of my favorite things. Happy Mother’s Day.

Where:

Kendra Scott
Brickell City Centre
701 S. Miami Avenue
Miami, Florida 33130

The boutique is located on the second floor. There’s garage parking and it’s free for the first two hours…
or
www.kendrascott.com

When:

Monday-Saturday: 10am-9pm
Sunday: 12-6pm

Be Social:
IG: @kendrascott
FB: @KendraScott
Twitter: @KendraScott

My mother said to me, ‘If you are a soldier, you will become a general. If you are a monk, you will become the Pope.’ Instead, I was a painter, and became Picasso.Pablo Picasso

Photographer: James Woodley Photography
Jewelry provided by Kendra Scott, Brickell City Centre
Dress & Shoes: BCBG South Beach
Styling: Jackie Kay & Marina
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Happy Mother’s Day, Mom” Auerbach

Wednesday, May 10, 2017 Shireen's Favorite Things BCBG, Brickell City Centre, James Woodley Photography, Kendra Scott

Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

The 12 Minute Escape

A Stylish SoFlo Soiree

Life is Beautiful

Made With Love

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