More Latin American designers are coming to Miami, especially from Colombia and Venezuela. The ones here are established in their home countries and are branching out to the USA with a first stop Miami. Last week I wrote about Seta Apparel in Part 1. Today there are two more worth putting on your list to have a look, and the good thing is they’re within a few minutes from one another in City Place, Doral. In other related news, there’s a terrific new website, www.cooperativashop.com that features designers from all over Latin America, with Colombia, Venezuela and Mexico most heavily represented. Finally, Filomena Fernandez in Coral Gables has launched a new program of trunk shows of Venezuelan designers, one per week, with part of the proceeds going to an in country charity. Check out the eye candy and find out at the end about great deals at a leading Coral Gables boutique that’s going out of business.
Swimwear designer for men, women and children, Agua Bendita hails from Medellin,Colombia. Their point of difference is that all pieces are handmade, with the name of the person who crafted the garment right on it. Exuberant tropical prints with eye popping colors make for fashions that will grab views, and they looked comfortable besides. Fashions include bathing suits with mix and match tops, hand embroidered espadrilles, boho style coverups, and my favorite, the hand embroidered beach bags with tropical motifs. Prices for bathing suits range from $140 for men to $170 to $250 for women. Agua Bendita, 8300 NW 36th St, T. (786) 477-4145.
Across the street is Venezuelan accessory shop Tarbay which also has a small location in Brickell, next to the River Oyster Bar. All accessories are designed by the owner, including fine delicate gold jewelry with gemstones, shoulder and leather clutch bags, and sandals and platforms with the 30’s retro look.
My favorites were the leather sandals in a wonderful range of colors, light and perfect for travel ($140). Colors change regularly so you’re bound to find the color for that special outfit. There’s also a small selection of tops and sundresses at good prices. Tarbay, 8300 NW 36th St, Doral, Phone: (786) 693-1849.
And while you’re in CityPlace, grab a coffee and one of the chocolate chunk cookies at Sloan’s home made ice cream (or an ice cream). Now this is what I call a pick me up!
Filomena Fernandez, is offering a first this summer – a trunk show every Thursday through June with a leading Venezuelan designer. Part of the proceeds go to www.cuatroporvenezuela.org, the organization helps alleviate basic shortages in Venezuela by delivering supplies and resources covering health, nutrition and education.
Upcoming shows include:
Currently the handbags of Camila Canabal and Bissuterie Fashion Jewelry- https://bissuterie.com Price Range $40-$300
6/29: Maheli Heli Swimwear- https://www.maheliheli.com Price Range $60-$180
Filomena Fernandez: 4217 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables T. 305-661-4448
Finally, in doing my “recon” for new finds for MiamiCurated, I discovered that Cavalier boutique, 2710 Ponce De Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, is going out of business and everything is 50% off! Find leading designers from Australia, France and Latin America. Happy hunting!