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Acura launches an exhibition featuring renowned photographer, Erik Madigan Heck

Acura, the automotive luxury brand, presented their latest model, the all-new 2010 Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe, in Miami on Thursday, February 25th, at the W South Beach. The event launched a seven-city tour featuring the vehicle and the works of renowned photographer Erik Madigan Heck. The Acura ZDX was designed with as much creative freedom as Erik Madigan Heck’s works - making the partnership between the artist and Acura a natural fit. At 26-years-old, Heck is an established fine art and fashion photographer who has shot the collections of the world’s finest designers including Valentino Garavani, Christian Lacroix, Jean Paul Gaultier and Helmut Lang. Last night, I had the opportunity to interview Heck.

MBS: What is your favorite type of photography?

Heck: Well, I shoot mostly fashion photography but for this event, I wanted to show a balance between some of my landscape and figurative work. I also segmented the pieces based on color.

MBS: How did your partnership with the new Acura ZDX come together?
Heck: The concept for this new car was developed by a team of young designers (at the new Acura Design Studio in Torrance, California) who are all around my age. They were looking for a similar artist to represent their newest creation. In that respect, it works really well.

MBS: Have you ever been in Miami and is there anything you're looking forward to experiencing?

Heck: Never been in Miami! I haven't been able to explore it as much as I would like to but I definitely love the beautiful weather.

MBS: What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Heck: I did a shoot for a Belgian fashion designer, Ann Demeulemeester, and I was a huge fan of hers for years. Ann's clothing is very expensive and she is a highly sought after designer. But, one day I did a photoshoot for her and she absolutely loved it so we became friends. It was like becoming friends with your hero. It was awesome!

Erik Madigan Heck is also the Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director of Nomenus Quarterly, a hybrid online/print publication that features the world’s most influential artists, institutions and fashion designers. To see more of Heck's work, you can visit his websites:
http://maisondesprit.com/ or http://www.nomenusquarterly.com/. Beware: his work is AMAAAAZZZING (I think he's MY new hero)!!!

After my chat with Heck, I returned to the exhibition where a crowd surrounded the new 2010 Acura ZDX. While some guests mingled, others couldn't help but sit inside the stunning coupe-like vehicle to see the panoramic glass roof. If you're interested in viewing this car yourself, then note that these Acura ZDX Launch Parties featuring Erik Madigan Heck will travel from Miami to Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington, D.C., culminating in New York City on April 8, 2010. I definitely see why Acura scheduled Miami as their first stop on the tour!

Guests at the 2010 Acura ZDX launch event in Miami

"Cultural Fridays" coming to Little Havana

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Miami's rich culture, you must attend Viernes Culturales (or Cultural Fridays) in the historic Little Havana neighborhood of Miami (8th St. SW between 14th and 17th Avenues). For those who didn't buy tickets to attend the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, this is certainly the place to be tomorrow (plus it's FREE)! Viernes Culturales showcases the talented visual artists and entertainers of our city. Once a month, visitors and tourists flock to this festival to experience an evening of culture highlighted by the diverse flavors of our Latino community.

On Friday, February 26th, check out some vibrant outdoor musical performances along the sidewalks of Calle Ocho or admire the exhibits presented by local artists. There will also be cuisine tastings at participating restaurants as well as an educational program hosted at the historic Tower Theatre. Free walking tours of Little Havana will also take place throughout the day. The event starts at 6:30 pm and will end by 11 pm. For more information on this festival, visit http://www.viernesculturales.org/. Enjoy the cool weather and have a wonderful weekend!

(Photo by Alex Diaz) Live painting by EVA

Miami International Fashion Week Party

On February 25th, the Miami Fashion Week Foundation will officially launch their March 2010 event by hosting a Kick-Off Party along with Tiffany & Co. Enjoy a fashion presentation by Miami’s most prestigious designers, delicacies prepared by local celebrity chefs, wine and champagne and a silent auction. During the party, there will also be a special performance by renowned pianist Julian De La Chica. Tickets are on sale for $100 with proceeds benefiting the Miami Fashion Week Foundation's scholarship fund. This foundation hosts a variety of fundraising events throughout the year to raise funds that will benefit the emerging designers and students studying fashion, photography, film and graphic design. The kick-off party will be held at the Gary Nader Fine Art (62 N.E. 27th Street, Wynwood Art District) from 7- 10 p.m. For more information on this event or to purchase your ticket online, visit http://www.miamifashionweek.com/.

A Fashionable Investment to help Haiti

It’s never too late to donate to Haiti while adding a fabulous shirt to your wardrobe. Make a charitable donation to the people of Haiti by purchasing your very own Saks Fifth Avenue "Fashion for Haiti" t-shirt. The shirt was designed by Peter Arnell and it features a block design with the words, “To Haiti With Love” along with a map of the country. A percentage of all profits will go toward the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, an organization raising money for the immediate relief and long-term recovery process of Haiti. Since each shirt costs $25, Saks will be making their own contribution to the American Red Cross. The sale begins tomorrow, February 23rd, when both men’s and women’s styles hit South Florida stores (available at Saks Fifth Avenue, 7687 N. Kendall Dr., Miami, 305.662.8655 and 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour, 305.865.1100). To purchase your shirt online, visit http://bit.ly/dASuYq.

The Spam Allstars are bringing the BEAT!!!

If you've never seen the Spam Allstars performing live, then you're missing a major source of Miami's sazon in your life! On Thursday, February 25th, the Spam Allstars are bringing their contagious beats to the Music Series at Bal Harbour Shops. To continue their weekly Cultural Series, Bal Harbour Village (9700 Collins Avenue) presents a complimentary outdoor concert featuring two performances by the eclectic band starting at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Blending their improvisational electronic elements and turntables with latin, funk, hip hop and dub, the Spam Allstars will energize your mind and body with their soulful sounds. After this event, join the Spam Allstars as they host their CD Release Party at Hoy Como Ayer (2212 SW 8th Street, Miami) where you can hear two sets from "Rumberos de la 8" live!! For more information about the band or to see their full schedule, check out http://www.spamallstars.com/. By the end of the night, you'll be dancing and singing along to their catchy lyrics. Enjoy the shows, xoxo

STATEMENT EARINGS.

sTATEMENT EARRINGS

Forget the big dangling styles –Rihanna, Anne Hathaway and Chloe Sevigny, go for sparkling retro clips that sit just on the earlobe.

Rihanna...................................

skirts aren't the only things getting shorter this season. Dare to bare your midriff, like our girl Rihanna, in a cropped top. Or use it as a layering piece if you aren't ready to expose your abs.

Visit the South Beach Wine & Food Festival

The Food Network officially kicks off their annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival on Thursday, February 25th. This is a national, star-studded, four-day event showcasing the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities. Although most of the events have been sold out, you can still reserve your tickets for an educational wine seminar or a relaxing lunch over at Joe's Stone Crab.

Another event that has not been sold out is the "Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village" which takes place on Sunday, February 28th. This event actually features many of the chefs seen on the Food Network including Anthony Bourdain, Paula Deen, Emeril Lagasse, Guy Fieri and Daisy Martinez. Bring your friends and take a stroll through South Beach as you learn about the seductive, restorative power of inspired cuisine, excellent wines, and well-crafted spirits.

For a complete list of events or to purchase your tickets online, visit www.sobewineandfoodfest.com. Enjoy the festival and always remember to drink responsibly.

Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker is in Miami!

If you're addicted to her reality show, then don't miss your chance to meet the Millionaire Matchmaker herself, Patti Stanger, as she autographs her new book: "Become Your Own Matchmaker." On Saturday, February 20th, Patti will be in Miami to greet her fans and autograph copies of her latest guide to finding true love. This event will be hosted at Books & Books on South Beach (927 Lincoln Road) and it will start at 5 p.m. (to be eligible for an autograph: books must be purchased at the store). After Patti mingles with her readers, she will be making a cameo at SET Night Club to celebrate her book release with style. Ladies are encouraged to come out and look your sexiest because Patti may match you with your very own millionaire! Enjoy some house music in the main room with DJ John Cash or catch Mr. Sandman spinning hip hop in the upstairs VIP room. For those who didn't have much luck with love on Valentine's Day, this may be your big break!

Join the Autism Speaks Walk this Sunday!

Join the Autism Speaks Walk to change the future for all who struggle with autism! On Sunday, February 21st, you will be able to walk for a good cause at Crandon Park in Key Biscayne. Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family friendly event that funds vital research to help understand the causes, prevention and treatments for autism. Every 20 minutes, another family receives the news that their child has autism. Whether you strive to join the new "Grand Club" (walkers that raise $1,000 or more) or you raise $10, you can make a difference in the lives of others! To participate in the walk, you may register as an individual or you can start a corporate, school or family team. This Sunday, registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. and the walk will kick-off at 10:00 a.m. For more information on this event, visit www.walk.autismspeaks.org or call (888) 777-6227 to request materials. Go out and enjoy the cool weather this weekend!

Behind the Scenes at Casa Bikini's fashion show starring the Florida Panther's Ice Dancers!

On February 12th, Casa Bikini welcomed the Miami International Boat Show by showcasing their latest collection at the Raleigh Hotel on South Beach. Andrea V. Amorosi, CEO of Casa Bikini (pictured above wearing black), attended the powerboat party along with her fabulous models who also happen to be the Florida Panther's Ice Dancers! Casa Bikini is an online boutique that carries exclusive Brazilian designer swimwear. Only the most fashion forward designers are featured on Casa Bikini's website which means every piece offers a great fit at an affordable price. Amorosi allows customers the opportunity to find the hottest Brazilian swimwear without traveling halfway around the world. If online shopping is not your cup of tea, then you can host your very own bikini party and Casa Bikini will gladly bring their swimsuits to you. This is an awesome way to reunite with your girlfriends while planning your upcoming Spring Break vacation.

As demonstrated by the Panther's Ice Dancers, the Brazilian bikini is a sexy yet sophisticated swimsuit style that was popularized in Europe and South America where nudity is less taboo. However, Amorosi notes that "the demand for Brazilian bikinis has grown significantly in South Florida as modern day women are discovering the benefits of this unique Brazilian cut bottom." For those who may be hesitant to try a Brazilian bikini, the online boutique does offer swimsuit bottoms with more coverage.

In a city that highly depends on swimwear, it is easy to see why Casa Bikini has been embraced by Miami beach-goers! To check out some of the boutique's most fashionable prints, you can look inside the pages of the official 2010 Panther's Ice Dancers Calendar. In the calendar, you'll find every dancer wearing a distinctive "beach look" provided by Casa Bikini. Each calendar costs $10 and may be purchased by visiting: http://bit.ly/cVyvIy. Let's be honest, even though it's technically "winter" in Miami...you can definitely get away with purchasing a new bikini. We all know the heat will be back in no time! To start shopping online, visit www.CasaBikini.com and don't forget to plan your very own bikini party. Ciao!

Danielle DeMarzo Foundation raffles a Porsche Boxster S to benefit Children with Special Needs

Ever thought of winning a 2010 Porsche Boxter S? Here's your chance to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs and enter a raffle to drive away with the car of your dreams! The Danielle DeMarzo Foundation, Inc., is a non profit organization dedicated to supporting resources and activities for children with special needs through charitable contributions. Their latest fundraiser will be held at their 7th annual BBQ where they will giveaway a 2010 Porsche Boxster S (color depends on availability). Each raffle ticket costs $100 and you may buy as many as you can afford. The foundation is only selling 1,000 raffles tickets so don't be left behind! All raffle ticket holders are invited to attend the BBQ at 500 West Copans Road in Pompano Beach, Fl. where the winning ticket will be drawn (date will be announced once tickets are sold out). The winner of the Porsche does not need to be present during the BBQ to win. Simply make your $100 donation (tax deductible and non-refundable) and cross your fingers! For tickets or details, call 866-295-KIDS or visit www.DanielleDeMarzoFoundation.org. Good luck and may the force be with you...

Queen Latiifah

Eva Longoria Parker.

EVA LONGORIA PARKER

She adds a touch of dazzle to her draped dove-gray jersey dress with platinum T-strap sandals and an ivory chain-strap handbag for dinner at her restaurant Beso in L.A.

COBALT SHEATHS

Rachel Weisz,Eva Longoria,and Rachel Mc Adams play up their curves in second-skin electric blue

Just plain cute...

Jennifer Lopez in a heart sweat shirt..

HEIDI VS JENNIFER

HEIDI VS. JENNIFER

It's the battle of the hot mamas! Heidi showed off her supermodel long legs in her Louis Vuitton mini at a store opening last month, while played up her famous curves in the jeweled dress at a book launch party last week.

WHO WEARS IT BETTER\\\\\\\\\\

Larter paired her Hervé Léger mini with tough gladiator sandals and a chunky jeweled necklace last June, while the singer worked her famous curves in the plunging dress last weekend with her favorite accessory – husband Marc Anthony!

RIRI-AIRPORT STYLE--------

Riahana AIrport style........fierce

RIRI

Forget the fierce fashion! The singer is down right glamorous in a metallic blue ombré strapless dress by Christian Siriano and bold gold accessories – including House of Lavande crystal earrings – at the Pepsi Refresh Project Party in Miami Beach.

RIHANNA

Rihanna heads to Seoul, South Korea to promote her album Rated R, rocking a runway-ready sharp-shouldered jacket, frothy pink skirt and ladder-detail booties.

BEYONCÉ

BEYONCE TURNS up the heat, swapping long, glittery locks at the awards show for sleek bangs at the launch OF HER SIGNATURE FRAGRANCE.

Cosabella's Collection debuts at Nikki Beach

Last night, Nikki Beach hosted "Beauty's Night Out" as part of their What Women Want event series. Upon arrival, guests were treated to complimentary cupcakes by Miami’s own Cupcake Nouveau and chocolate covered strawberries from Nikki Beach. There were a variety of complimentary beauty treatments offered throughout the night including free hairstyling by Bravo’s Shear Genius winner Dee Adame, make-up by Rich Girl, palm readings by Sarah and mini-facials by Horwitz Dermatology to name a few. Even though it was a cold night in Miami, the runway models turned up the heat to showcase Cosabella's Spring 2010 collection. The fashion show featured Cosabella's exotic swimwear along with their more sophisticated lingerie garments. It was definitely a great way to welcome Valentine's Day! For more information about Cosabella, visit www.shop.cosabella.com and enter "womenwant" under the promotional code section to receive 15% off your purchases. Happy Valentine's Day to all of my readers!! xoxo