Giselle is the creative director of one of our favourite stockists, the beautifully curated online store My Chameleon and a fan of American hotspot Miami. We admit we had our doubts when she professed her love for this city - isn't this the same city of which Michael Westen proclaimed "when you're burned you've got nothing"??? - but we were won over by her city guide and her excitement when she returned. And it's great timing, as Miami's art basel fair starts this week, bringing the art and culture world's best and brightest to the city. We can't get enough of America at the moment, and Miami just might be on our travel wishlist for next year. And if we do we'd love to do it in a uniform hand-picked from My Chameleon's enviable design mix, Benah is in great company there alongside Christopher Esber, TOME and Cacharel. This is Miami - by Giselle.
one. Best thing about Miami?
The art deco buildings against the hazy sky and the perfect temperature of Miami beach.
two. Worst thing about Miami?
I try not to find the worst things about cities it is best to take them for what they are and enjoy their diversity. In Miami you can choose what experience you would like to have.
three. Favourite secret spot? Virginia Keys beach and Delray Beach in South Florida
Virginia Keys beach, Miami
four. Favourite everyone-knows-it-but-it's-still-good spot? News Café, downtown - shaded by large trees and nestled back from the street curb. Milkshakes, burgers and big breakfasts - what you need after a night out with friends.
five. What is your newest discovery in Miami? Rosa Mexicana on Lincoln Rd - the only place I know where you can get guacamole made fresh at your table.
six. Where is the best place for.... morning coffee? meal with friends? romantic rendez-vous? late night drink? even later-night boogie?
Morning coffee and housemade granola at Icebox, Dinner with friends at Cecconi’s at Soho Beach House, Romantic dinner at Ola for Cuban or Casa Tua, Hakkasan for good Chinese and to The Electric Pickle club for late night drinks and some dancing.
Cecconi's at Soho Beach House
seven. Where are Miami's style spots? Where is the best shopping? My favourite boutique is The Alchemist on Lincohn Rd they carry labels like Alaia and Dries Von Noten and Rick Owens. Bal Harbour Shopping centre for Balenciaga, La Perla and Stella McCartney and while there make sure you have lunch at Carpaccio - it's an Italian restaurant.
The Design District for Celine and Maison Martin Margiela and plenty of art galleries along the way.
eight. What is something you can get/read/experience/eat that you can only do in Miami? Art Basel Miami - held every year in December it’s a time for gallerists from around the world to showoff artists’ work, there are also lots of private parties and the vibe in Miami is uplifting.
nine. You can tell a lot about a city from their airport. Describe Miami's.
The only thing I can remember is the abundance of Anastasia’s Pure Coconut bars. Flavoured coconut covered in dark chocolate, need I say more.
ten. How would you describe your city to someone who has never been before?
Hot, Laid back and fun.
Miami atmosphere
Benah's This Is My City guides: