ROADTRIP PT. 2: SOUTH BEACH

I have not forgotten to share the ‘happening’ goodies of scorching South Beach.

As you will recall from the last entry ,I was having a blast at the Delano, and enjoying the spoils thrust forth unto guests. Tanning out and poolside schmoozing (I’m the sober Gent) became a bore after a few hours. I escaped onto the Collins Ave. strip to get my sightseeing (so, tourist…lol) and shopping on.

I am not going to give play-by-play with all my stops, (I know you’re probably reading this from work) but I will mention the must-shop-and-see while vacationing in South Beach. With so many stops, I did major editing due to the hyper-repetitiveness (merchandise, layout, fixtures, etc.) of most shops.

SOUTH BEACH SHOPPING

All throughout South Beach the shopping availableness was insane. Everywhere you spun, products are forced in your face, and often times into your hands. For menswear, the popular designers throughout were Ed Hardy (weirdly, this brand plasters most visual displays), D&G and Moschino (considered topnotch label). Gents, prepare yourself to drape your physique in bling. For some strange reason from eyewear down to footwear is sparkling with glitz. However, with time and patience, I tapped some distinct spaces for merchandise.

BASE

BASE is the ultimate must-see shop in Miami. Flooded with top it-designers (Y-3, Opening Ceremony, Turf Mid, Alexandre Herchcovitch), it’s a lifestyle emporium with merchandise definitely prone to receive envious looks from the haters. The massive space is uniquely dissected into men’s and women. The associates at BASE are pleasant and were on point when summoned by shoppers. BASE houses a meticulous set of men’s footwear (in wood vintage glass displays) in the the store's rear. I urge you to check it out. To add, BASE stocks all the popular design and style books.

(www.baseworld.com)

ATRIUM MIAMI

More southward on Collins, ATRIUM Miami, is “IT.” The retail space is loaded with top-level designers and labels, making a noise in fashion. The men’s section is spacious with room to maneuver through the prized merchandise offerings. My recommended purchasers: Europann shorts (exceptional prints); everything from Maharishi and Ksubi; and Grayson’s suede/nubuck lace-ups I went crazy over. ATRIUM Miami is a stately outpost from its ostentatious New York flagship. Although, stately, you can’t forget where you reside with large potted fresh plants and wood panels flushed throughout.

(www.atriumnyc.com)

Aces of Shades

Need exclusive frames or vintage frames? Ace of Shades on Washington Ave. has you covered. Newbie to the South Beach area, the store is shining tall with ace-rated shades. Boutique owner, Stan, informed me that “the European tourists are banking up the store's shades mostly." I was given the best consumer-tour! Which is why, I can say, their vintage Christian Dior and Porsche (both unisex) frames are fierce!! Editors and stylist would crave to feature the heated eyewear. In fact, all the unique frames on display: Marc Jacobs, Ferrari, Gucci, Mosley Tribes (Mr. MSR new eyewear of choice!), RayBan (his top seller), and countless other designers.

1516 Washington Ave., (305-534-2966

South Beach Recycled

You can’t vacation in South Beach, and not visit South Beach Recycled. It’s just unheard-of. The store’s years of distinct vintage pieces collecting calmly hangs, folds, or rest on racks in very spacious quarters. The men’s selection would make any Gent penniless--mark my words. The freedom to wander and admire western tops; aged wranglers; distressed leathers; ruffled 70s shirts; and sturdy felts is the ultimate shopping experience. Nothing else compares.

1513 Washington Ave., (305-534-5992)

The Beach Wear Store

The Beach Wear Store is a perfect spot for clenching souvenirs, trinkets, t-shirts for individuals back home. On their business card, the store mantra reads, “One stop shop for all your beach wears and fashion needs!!!” I second that line. The fashion offering mix might seem perplexing. Roberto Cavalli sunnies and “I Heart South Beach” t-shirts to the rear was a total shopping curve ball. Despite the merchandising entanglement, I suggest adding this store to your shopping list.

1427 Washington Ave., (786-436-7802)

ART AND CULTURE IN SOUTH BEACH

BOOKS & BOOKS

Clearly the title is a giveaway that Books& Books is a bookstore. Positioned on Lincoln Road, the environment is supremely relaxing and accommodating. Grab a latte in the coffee shop area and cozy up with a great read from their massive book collection (wide category range). It’s definitely Miami’s modern version to Barnes & Nobles.

(www.booksandbooks.com)

BRITTO CENTRAL

Neo-pop artist Romero Britto’s art space—Britto Central—surely excites your inner artist. The space embodies "whimsical" to the highest power. Romero Britto wasn’t on site, but his soaring sculptures and paintings took perfect replacement. Romero Britto's art works are infused with cubism, pop art, and caricature elements. Major brands (Absolut, Disney, Movado, Audi, etc.) have all commissioned Britto for creations. If you need information on any Romero Britto piece while visiting, the helpful consultants are the best! Especially Jennifer!

(www.britto.com)