Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Table of Contents
Coconut Grove | Coral Gables | Wynwood | Design District | Little Haiti | Little Havana | South Beach | North Beach
Beyond its fun-in-the-sun offerings, Miami has evolved into a world-class shopping destination. People fly to Miami from all over the world just to shop. The city teems with sophisticated malls—from multistory, indoor climate-controlled temples of consumerism to sun-kissed, open-air retail enclaves—and bustling avenues and streets, lined at once with affordable chain stores, haute couture boutiques, and one-off, “only in Miami”–type shops.
Miami’s shopping centers are record breakers. Several chain stores in the massive Aventura Mall bank as the best-selling outposts in the country, while Bal Harbour Shops flaunt the most lucrative square footage of any shopping arena in the country, with its sales reaching up to $2,555 per square foot.
Following the incredible success of the Bal Harbour Shops in the highest of the high-end market (Chanel, Alexander McQueen, ETRO, and Hermès), the Design District has followed suit. Beyond fabulous designer furniture showrooms, the district’s tenants now include Dior Homme, Rolex, and Prada. In addition, an entire LVMH mall is under construction at this writing to create more upscale retail space.
If you’re from a region ripe with the climate-controlled slickness of shopping malls and food-court “meals,” you’ll love the choices in Miami. Head out into the sunshine and shop the city streets, where you’ll find big-name retailers and local boutiques alike. Take a break at a sidewalk café to power up on some Cuban coffee or fresh-squeezed OJ and enjoy the tropical breezes.
Beyond clothiers and big-name retailers, Greater Miami has all manner of merchandise to tempt even the casual browser. For consumers on a mission to find certain items—art deco antiques or cigars, for instance—the city streets burst with a rewarding collection of specialty shops.
Stroll through Spanish-speaking neighborhoods where shops sell clothing, cigars, and other goods from all over Latin America or even head to Little Haiti for rare vinyl records.
Coconut Grove
Outdoor Markets
Coconut Grove Organic Farmers’ Market.
This pricey, outdoor organic market is a Saturday ritual for Coconut Grove locals. It specializes in a mouthwatering array of local produce as well as such ready-to-eat, raw vegan goodies as cashew butter, homemade salad dressings, and fruit pies. If you are looking for a downright granola crowd and experience, pack your Birkenstocks, because this is it. It’s open Saturday from 10 to 7, rain or shine. | 3300 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove | Miami, Florida, United States | 305/238–7747 | www.glaserorganicfarms.com.
Antiques
Las Tias.
A preferred spot for vintage fanatics and professional interior designers alike for its ever-changing collection of consignment furnishings at good pricing, Las Tias recently moved over from the Design District onto the eclectic 28th Lane in Coconut Grove, a burgeoning design strip of its own. The new space allows perusers to shop without feeling cramped, atypical of many antique and consignment stores, and easily uncover renowned brands of furniture, lighting, china, crystal, and more. A smaller section of vintage clothing and accessories by major designer houses can be found in the back. | 2638 S.W. 28th La. | 305/573–4198 | www.lastias.com.
Worth Galleries.
You’ll find an enormous selection of fine European antiques as well as large and eclectic items—railroad crossing signs, statues, English roadsters—at this oversize gallery. Worth possesses South Florida’s largest collection of antique books and antique chandeliers. There’s also vintage furniture, modern art, oil paintings, and silverware, all in a cluttered setting that makes shopping an adventure. | 2520 S.W. 28th La., Coconut Grove | Miami, Florida, United States | 305/285–1330 | www.worthgalleries.com.
Clothing
Maui Nix.
Anchoring the corner of CocoWalk plaza, this Florida-based store sells anything and everything you might need for a trip to the beach. More beach storehouse than shack, the bleached-blond wood walls and racks display 100 surf and skate brands of apparel, shoes, accessories, and gear. Pair a Billabong sundress with a pooka bead necklace, Hurley hoodie with skateboard, Vans slip-ons with Oakely sunglasses or Beats headphones—the possibilities are endless for looking like a true “Grovite.” | CocoWalk, 3015 Grand Ave., No. 145 | 305/444–6919 | www.mauinix.com.
Unika.
A longtime fashion resident of Coconut Grove (circa 1989), Unika takes shoppers from day to night, and all affairs in between, with a wide range of inventory for men and women. The contemporary boutique has an it-girl vibe, but the cool, relaxed one you’d actually want to be friends with. High/low pricing appeases all budgets and expect to uncover up-and-coming designer gems tucked within the racks of well-known brands. Bonus: the staff is great with styling for a head-to-toe look. | 3444 Main Hwy., Suite 2, Coconut Grove | 305/445–4752.
Malls
CocoWalk.
Though this three-story, indoor-outdoor mall anchors the Grove’s shopping scene, but it’s long passed its 1990s heydey. Some chain stores like Victoria’s Secret and Gap remain alongside a few specialty shops like Maui Nix. Touristy kiosks with cigars, beads, incense, herbs, and other small items are scattered around the ground level, and commercial restaurants and nightlife (Cheesecake Factory, Fat Tuesday, and Cinépolis Coconut Grove—a multiscreen, state-of-the-art movie theater with a wine bar and lounge and in-seat food service) line the upstairs perimeter. Overall, the space mixes the bustle of a mall with the breathability of an open-air market. Note that hanging out and people-watching is something of a pastime here for Miami suburbanites. | 3015 Grand Ave. | 305/444–0777 | www.cocowalk.net.
Coral Gables
Antiques
Alhambra Antiques.
The collection of high-quality antique French furniture and decorative pieces are acquired during the owners’ annual jaunts to France. Expect a wide range of classic chandeliers, clocks, chairs, daybeds, tables, and mirrors. While the showroom offers regular hours (Monday–Saturday noon–6 pm), it’s usually best to call ahead as many high-end Coral Gables antiques shops will open their stores only by appointment rather than maintaining an open-door policy during supposed operating hours. | 2850 Salzedo St. | Coral Gables, Florida, United States | 305/446–1688 | www.alhambraantiques.com.
Books
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Books & Books, Inc.
Long live the classic book store! Greater Miami’s only independent, English-language bookshop, Books & Books, specializes in contemporary and classical literature as well as in books on the arts, architecture, Florida, and Cuba. The Coral Gables store is the largest of its four South Florida locations. Here, you can sip ’n’ read in the courtyard lounge or dine at the old-fashioned in-store café while browsing the photography gallery. Multiple rooms are filled with myriad genres, making for a fabulous afternoon of book shopping; plus there’s an entire area dedicated to kids. There are book signings, literary events, poetry, and other readings, too. Two smaller locations on Lincoln Road in South Beach and at the Bal Harbour Shops also carry great reads as does a petite outpost at the Miami International Airport. | 265 Aragon Ave. | Coral Gables | 305/442–4408 | www.booksandbooks.com | Sun.–Thurs. 9 am–11 pm, Fri. and Sat. 9 am–midnight.
Clothing
Bloom Boutique.
With a particularly diverse selection of clothing suitable for all ages and in a wide variety of styles, almost anyone can find something to their liking here. The shop carries apparel by Miami labels Lorie Lester, Betsy Moss, and Sandbar, and handcrafted jewelry by Cimber. Staying true to its policy of individuality, the store never stocks more than six of each style. Additional accessory offerings represent the area’s great Latin influence with Venezuelan and Mexican designers. Bonus: The pricing is equally appealing. | 293 Miracle Mile | Coral Gables, Florida, United States | 305/476–0300.
Essence Boutique.
Among the rare nonbridal or evening-wear focused boutiques on Miracle Mile, Essence Botique’s blend of separates, rompers, dresses, and jumpsuits—spanning basic to occasional—are on trend, though skew towards more classic silhouettes. From the genuine greeting and ensuing warmth and assistance of the sales associates, even the introverted shopper can’t help but to engage in conversation. Statement jewelry and handbags add some flair and the price point is refreshing. | 78 Miracle Mile, Miracle Mile | Coral Gables, Florida, United States | 305/448–6777.
ISA boutique.
If you’re one for lounging, sipping (on complimentary libations), and socializing while shopping, this is the ideal place. The highly curated selection here may appear stingy at first, yet nearly every piece is sure to catch your eye: glittery cocktail dresses by Betsy Moss, feminine gowns by Gracia, fresh jackets by Style Mafia, striking jewelry from the owner’s design discoveries out of L.A., and statement belts and clutches. On-site alterations secure that your take-away pile is a perfect fit. The shop closes on Sunday. | 34 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables | 786/558–8027.
Koko & Palenki.
Shoe shopaholics come here for the well-edited selection of trendy footwear by Alexandre Birman, Giuseppe Zanotti, Emilia Castillo, Rachel Zoe, Rebecca Minkoff, and others. Handbags and belts add to the selection. Clothing hails from designers like Catherine Malandrino, Issa, J Brand, and Citizens of Humanity. Koko & Palenki also has a store in Aventura Mall and a great online selection (they ship anywhere in the world). | Village of Merrick Park, 342 San Lorenzo Ave., Suite 1090, Coral Gables | Miami, Florida, United States | 305/444–0626 | www.kokopalenki.com | Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Ste. 779 | Aventura, Florida, United States | 305/792–9299.
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Nic Del Mar.
Attending one of Miami’s famed pool parties practically requires a trip to this upscale swimwear boutique. From the teeny weeny, to innovative one-pieces, to sporty cuts, the varied suit selection includes Mara Hoffman, Tori Praver, Acacia, and Zimmerman, many of which include matching children’s styles for mini beach babes. Flowy coverups by the same labels and more can easily double as dinner dresses, while hats, totes, lotions, and even metallic temporary tattoos add a sun-kissed touch. Men’s styles are also available. | 475 Biltmore Way, Suite 105 | 305/442–8080 | www.nicdelmar.com.
Silvia Tcherassi.
The famed, Miami-based Colombian designer’s signature boutique in the Village of Merrick Park features ready-to-wear, feminine, and frilly dresses and separates accented with chiffon, tuille, and sequins. You’ll see plenty of Tcherassi’s designs on Miami’s Latin power players at events and A-list parties. A neighboring atelier at 4101 Ponce de Leon Boulevard showcases the designer’s bridal collection. | Village of Merrick Park, 350 San Lorenzo Ave., No. 2140 | 305/461–0009 | www.silviatcherassi.com.
Malls
Village of Merrick Park.
At this open-air Mediterranean-style, tri-level, shopping-and-dining venue, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom anchor 115 specialty shops. Outposts by Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany & Co., Burberry, CH Carolina Herrera, and Gucci fulfill most high-fashion needs, and haute-decor shopping options include Brazilian contemporary-furniture designer Artefacto. International food favorite C’est Bon and pampering specialist Elemis Day-Spa offer further indulgences. | 358 San Lorenzo Ave. | 305/529–0200 | www.villageofmerrickpark.com.
Vintage Clothing
Miami Twice.
This reseller sells fabulous vintage clothes and accessories from decades past, specializing in flappers’ dresses and offering a wide range of leisure suits and platform shoes. Check out the vintage home collectibles and furniture, too. During October, the store transforms into a one-stop Halloween shop. | 6562 S.W. 40th St., Coral Gables | Miami, Florida, United States | 305/666–0127 | www.miamitwice.com.
Only in Miami
Ramon Puig: La Casa de las Guayaberas.
This clothing shop sells custom-made Ramon Puig guayaberas, the natty four-pocket dress shirts favored by older Cuban men and hipsters alike. Ramon Puig is known as “the King of Guayaberas,” and his shirts are top of the line as far as guayaberas go. Hundreds are available off the rack. There are styles for women, too. A second outpost is in downtown Miami at 28 West Flager Street. | 5840 S.W. 8th St. | 305/266–9683 | www.ramonpuig.com.
Outdoor Markets
Coral Gables Farmers’ Market.
Some 25 local produce growers and plant vendors sell herbs, fruits, fresh-squeezed juices, chutneys, cakes, and muffins at this market in front of Coral Gables’s City Hall. Artists also join in. Regular events include gardening workshops, children’s activities, and cooking demonstrations offered by Coral Gables’s master chefs. The market opens 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday, mid-January through late March only. | 405 Biltmore Way, at LeJeune Rd. and Miracle Mile | Coral Gables, Florida, United States | 305/460–5600 | www.coralgables.com/farmersmarket.
Shopping Districts
Miracle Mile.
The centerpiece of the downtown Coral Gables shopping district, lined with trees and busy with strolling shoppers, is home to a host of exclusive couturiers and bridal shops as well as some men’s and women’s boutiques, jewelry, and home-furnishings stores. The half-mile, “mile” runs from Douglas Road to LeJeune Road and Aragon Avenue to Andalusia Avenue, but many of the Gables’ best nonbridal shops are found on side streets, off the actual mile. In addition, the street itself teems with first-rate restaurants—more than two-dozen—facilitating a fabulous afternoon of shopping and eating. TIP If debating Miracle Mile versus Bal Harbour or the Design District, check out the others first. | Miracle Mile (Coral Way), Douglas Rd. to LeJeune Rd., and Aragon Ave. to Andalusia Ave | www.shopcoralgables.com.
Wynwood
Only in Miami
ABC Costume Shop.
ABC Costume Shop is a major costume source for TV, movie, and theatrical performances. Open to the public, it has more than 30,000 costumes in stock—outfits range from Venetian kings and queens to Tarzan and Jane. Hundreds of these costumes and accessories, such as wigs, masks, gloves, tights, and makeup, are available to buy off the rack; others are available to rent, so it’s the ideal destination if you are attending a theme party and don’t want to pack a costume. | 575 N.W. 24th St., Wynwood | Miami, Florida, United States | 305/573–5657 | www.abccostumeshop.com | Closed Sat. during July and Aug.
FAMILY | Genius Jones.
This is a modern design store for kids and parents. It’s the best—and one of the few—places to buy unique children’s gifts in Miami. Pick up furniture, strollers, clothing, home accessories, and playthings, including classic wooden toys, vintage-rock T-shirts by Claude and Trunk, and toys designed by Takashi Murakami and Keith Haring. | 2800 N.E. 2nd Ave. | 305/571–2000 | www.geniusjones.com.
Design District
Miami is synonymous with good design, and this ever-expanding visitor-friendly shopping district—officially from Northeast 38th to Northeast 42nd streets, between N. Miami Avenue and Northeast 2nd Avenue (though unofficially beyond)—is an unprecedented melding of public space and the exclusive world of design. High-design buildings don the creativity of architects like Aranda & Lasch, Sou Fujimoto, and the Leong Leong firm. Throughout the district, there are more than 100 showrooms and galleries, including Baltus, Animadomus, Kartell, Ann Sacks, Poliform USA, and Luminaire Lab. Upscale retail outlets also grace the district. Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Valentino, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Rolex, and Scotch & Soda sit next to design showrooms. Meanwhile, restaurants like Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink and Oak Tavern also make this trendy neighborhood a hip place to dine. Unlike most showrooms, which are typically the beat of decorators alone, the Miami Design District’s showrooms are open to the public and occupy windowed, street-level spaces. The area also has its own website www.miamidesigndistrict.net.
Clothing
Apt 606.
One of the Design District’s few men’s stores to offer multiple designer brands takes a cue from its artsy neighborhood, offering a space that is more fashion gallery than boutique, with a modern black-and-white palette, immaculate layout, and accessories displayed on pedestals. From the pristinely organized racks hang fashion-forward jackets, knits, and pants by the likes of Alexander Wang, Raf Simmons, Surface to Air, BLK DNM, and celebrity underground favorite Public School. | 89 N.E. 40th St. | 305/573–3330 | www.apt606.com.
En Avance.
This boutique offers a feminine compilation of on-the-cusp designers like Alexis, MSGM, Protagonist, Anjuna, and other young brands. Style and beauty enthusiasts will also enjoy the roving table displays of bespoke baubles, handbags, Assouline lifestyle books, and delicate lotions and potions. The owner’s close connection with decorative artist Fornasetti brings to the store an extensive and exclusive selection of fashion-inspired furniture and accessories for the home. | 53 N.E. 40th St. | 305/576–0056 | www.enavance.com.
Only in Miami
The Bazaar Project.
Those looking for the rare and special need look no further than this boutique, curated by owner and Turkey-native Yeliz Titiz via her travels around the globe. Fashions, beauty, decor, and the wonderfully unusual exude the culture and craft akin to its respective region. Highlights include whimsical housewares and candles by Seletti, linens and Turkish rugs by Haremlique, French wallpapers by Koziel, and intriguing jewelry by Titiz’s own line, Sura. | 4308 N.E. 2nd Ave. | 786/703–6153 | www.thebazaarprojectshop.com.
Vº73.
Though high rents in Miami’s Design District have translated to more big-name tenants like Fendi and Giorgio Armani, a number of more singular offerings still thrive. One case in point is the exquisite boutique by Italian handbag designer Elisabetta Armellin. It’s the artist’s only U.S. store and offers a wealth of colorful and understated leather totes and accessories at a number of different price points, catering to a broader demographic than the Design District’s typical black-card holders. | 4218 N.E. 2nd Ave. | www.v73.it/us_en.
Little Haiti
Bordered by Little Haiti to the west and Biscayne Bay to the east, the emerging boutique-filled neighborhoods in between have been christened Miami’s “Upper East Side” but are still part of Little Haiti.
Vintage Clothing
Fly Boutique.
After 13 years on South Beach, Fly Boutique found its new home in Miami’s up-and-coming MIMO district, north of the Design District and bordering Little Haiti. This resale boutique is where Miami hipsters flock for the latest arrival of used clothing. 1980s glam designer pieces fly out at a premium price, but vintage camisoles and Levi’s corduroys are still a resale deal. You’ll find supercool art, furniture, luggage, and collectibles throughout the boutique. And be sure to look up—the eclectic lanterns are also for sale. | 7235 Biscayne Blvd. | 305/604–8508 | www.flyboutiquevintage.com.
Rebel.
Rebel might be a little off the beaten path, though the trip here is well worth it. Half new, half vintage consignment, the goods offered here make you feel as if you are raiding your stylish friend’s closet. Racks are packed with all different types of styles and designers—Flying Monkey, Ark & Co., Indah, Karina Grimaldi—requiring a little patience when sifting though. The store has a particularly strong collection of jeans, funky tees, and maxi dresses. TIP Be throrough, as cute finds are within every nook and corner. | 6621 Biscayne Blvd., Upper East Side | 305/793–4104.
Music
Sweat Records.
Though Little Haiti’s shopping “scene” is mostly botanicas and voodoo supply shops, one of its most popular residents is Sweat Records, a record store with Miami’s biggest selection of new LPs; there’s also Miami’s only vegan, organic coffee shop on the premises. Sweat sells a wide range of music—rock, pop, punk, electronic, hip-hop, and Latino—as well as turntables and vinyl accessories. | 5505 N.E. 2nd Ave., Little Haiti | Miami, Florida, United States | 786/693–9309 | www.sweatrecordsmiami.com.
Little Havana
Cigars
Sosa Family Cigars.
At this retail outpost on Calle Ocho, the Sosa family sells their line of eponymous cigars, handmade at their nearby factory and distributed by the family-owned Antillian Cigar Corporation. The store offers some newly designed family stogies like Sosa Underground, 60 by Sosa, and Sosa Family Selection, as well as wide selection of tried-and-true premium and house cigars from around the world. It’s one of the few cigar shops in Little Havana where you can sit and play dominoes while smoking. There’s a selection of wines for purchase, too. Humidors and other accessories are also for sale here. | 3475 S.W. 8th St. | 305/446–2606 | www.antilliancigars.com.
Only In Miami
FAMILY | La Casa de los Trucos.
This popular costume store first opened in Cuba in the 1920s; the exiled owners reopened it here in the 1970s. You’ll find cartoon costumes, rock star costumes, pet costumes, couples costumes, you name it. If you come any time near Halloween, expect to stand in line just to enter the tiny store. Wooden, life-size costume cut-outs in the parking lot make for great photo ops. | 1343 S.W. 8th St. | 305/858–5029 | www.crazyforcostumes.com | Closed Sun.
South Beach
Outdoor Markets
FAMILY | Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market.
With all the familiar trappings of a farmers’ market (except for farmers—most of the people selling veggies appear to be resellers), this is a weekly South Beach Sunday (9–6:30) ritual. It brings local produce and bakery vendors to Lincoln Road and often features plant workshops, art sales, and children’s activities. This is a good place to pick up live orchids, too. | Lincoln Rd. between Meridian and Washington Aves., South Beach | Miami Beach, Florida, United States | www.lincolnroadmall.com.
Art Galleries
Britto Central.
Though exhibited throughout galleries and museums in more than 100 countries, the vibrant, pop art creations by Brazilian artist Romero Britto have become most synonymous with Miami’s playful spirt. His flagship gallery and store carries the full breach of his portfolio, including original paintings and sculptures, collectibles, and his signature interpretations in collaboration with some of America’s most iconic characters and brands, including Disney and Coco-Cola. Home-decor accessories and tech gadgets with Britto’s artistic touch are also available. | 818 Lincoln Rd. | 305/531–8821 | www.britto.com.
Clothing
Fodor’s Choice | Alchemist.
Synonymous with the pinnacle of design and fashion in the Magic City, this boutique has so much personality that it requires not one but two cutting-edge spaces in the retail section of Lincoln Road’s trendy Herzog and de Meuron–designed parking garage. There’s an anchor store on street level, set in an extraordinary space of glass and steel, as well as a glass-encased studio for men’s clothing and jewelry on the fifth floor. The price tags skew high, yet represent brands known for innovation and edge. Selections span statement pieces and accessories by Alaia, Givenchy, Moschino; jewelry on an artistry level including Cristina Ortiz, Lydia Courteille, and Stephen Webster; and fashions for the home by Tom Dixon. | 1111 Lincoln Rd., Carpark Level 5 | 305/531–4815 | www.shopalchemist.com.
Atrium.
You may consider not even packing a bag for your trip, as Atrium is truly a one-stop-shop covering every Miami fashion scenario. From lazy afternoons at the beach to biking on the boardwalk, from sophisticated dinners to nightlife fun, the corresponding men’s and women’s wear encompasses the latest trends and designers. The style risk-taker with a fashion-forward mind-set would perhaps best appreciate this boutique, though even the conservative might consider indulging in a statement piece or two. Miami is the place to let loose, after all. | 1931 Collins Ave. | 305/695–0757 | www.atriumnyc.com.
Base Superstore.
This is the quintessential South Beach fun-and-funky boutique experience. Stop here for men’s eclectic clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories that mix Japanese design with Caribbean-inspired materials. Constantly evolving, this shop features an intriguing magazine section, a record section, groovy home accessories, and the latest in men’s swimwear and sunglasses. The often-present house-label designer may help select your wardrobe’s newest addition. | 927 Lincoln Rd. | 305/531–4982 | www.baseworld.com.
Frankie.
Expect high style at moderate prices at this boutique. The studio-like ambience matches the highly edited collection of fashionista favorites Beck & Bridge, Sam & Lavi, Iro, For Love & Lemons, and Loeffers. Co-owner Cheryl Herger also designs her own private-label line especially for Frankie. Skirts and dresses of interesting silhouettes, uniquely cut tops, and swimwear almost too good for just the pool are interspersed with easy-chic basics and the boutique’s renowned selection of denim shorts (it is a Miami Beach fashion staple, after all). Delicate jewelry and statement clutches provide that polished edge to your final look. | 1891 Purdy Ave., South Beach | 786/479–4898 | www.frankiemiami.com.
Intermix.
This modern New York–based boutique has the variety of a department store. You’ll find fancy dresses, stylish shoes, slinky accessories, and trendy looks by sassy and somewhat pricey designers like Chloé, Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs, Moschino, and Diane von Furstenberg. Its popularity on Collins Avenue has translated into a second, even bigger, outpost down the beach at Lincoln Road Mall, which opened in late 2014. There is yet another branch at the Bal Harbour Shops at 9700 Collins Avenue. | 634 Collins Ave., South Beach | 305/531–5950 | www.intermixonline.com.
Vintage Clothing
Consign of the Times.
This women’s luxury resale specialist dutifully delivers on all promises. Discover a wealth of vintage and consignment items by top designers at pre-owned prices, including Chanel suits, Fendi bags, and Celine and Prada treasures. The shoes and handbag selections are particularly awesome. | 1935 West Ave., South Beach | Miami Beach, Florida, United States | 305/535–0811 | www.consignofthetimes.com.
Only in Miami
Dog Bar.
Just north of Lincoln Road’s main drag, this over-the-top pet boutique caters to enthusiastic animal owners with a variety of unique items for the superpampered pet. From luxurious, vegan “leather” designer dog purse/carriers to bling-bling-studded collars to chic poopy bag holders, Miami’s “original pet boutique” carries pretty much every pet accessory imaginable. You’ll also find plenty of gourmet food and treats as well as a wide variety of fancy toys for dogs, large and small. | 1684 Jefferson Ave., South Beach | 305/532–5654 | www.dogbar.com.
Fodor’s Choice | The Webster Miami.
Occupying an entire circa-1939 art deco building, the Webster is a tri-level, 20,000-square-foot, one-stop shop for fashionistas. This retail sanctuary carries ready-to-wear fashions by more than 100 top designers, plus in-store exclusive shirts, candles, books, and random trendy items you might need for your South Beach experience . a kind of haute Urban Outfitters for grown-ups. Too many choices? Sit down for a café au lait and pastry inside the store to mull over your future purchases. | 1220 Collins Ave., South Beach | 305/674–7899 | www.thewebstermiami.com.
Shopping Districts
Collins Avenue.
Give your plastic a workout in South Beach shopping at the many high-profile tenants on this densely packed stretch of Collins between 5th and 10th streets, with stores like Steve Madden, Club Monaco, MAC Cosmetics, Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, and Intermix. Sprinkled among the upscale vendors are hair salons, spas, cafés, and such familiar stores as the Gap and Urban Outfitters. Be sure to head over one street east to Ocean Drive or west to Washington Avenue for a drink or a light bite, or go for more retail therapy on Lincoln Road. | Collins Ave. between 5th and 10th Sts. | www.lincolnroadmall.com/shopping/collins-avenue.
Fodor’s Choice | Lincoln Road Mall.
The eight-block-long pedestrian mall between Alton Road and Washington Avenue is the trendiest place on Miami Beach. Home to more than 200 shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafés, and the renovated Colony Theatre, Lincoln Road is like the larger, more sophisticated cousin of Ocean Drive. The see-and-be-seen theme is furthered by outdoor seating at every restaurant, where tourists and locals lounge and discuss the people (and pet) parade passing by. An 18-screen movie theater anchors the west end of the street, which is where most of the worthwhile shops are; the far east end is mostly discount and electronics shops. Due to higher rents, you are more likely to see big corporate stores like American Eagles Outfitters, H&M, and Victoria’s Secret than original boutiques. However, a few emporiums and stores with unique personalities, like Atrium, Base, and Books & Books, remain. | Lincoln Rd. between Alton Rd. and Washington Ave. | www.lincolnroadmall.com.
North Beach
Bal Harbour
Clothing
Le Beau Maroc.
Shoppers can snag a piece of Moroccan exoticism and regality via pieces introduced to the United States for the very first time and available only within the boutique. Lavishly embellished couture kaftans by Souad Chraïbi and Siham Tazi, two of Morocco’s most famed designers commissioned by a royal and celebrity clientele, can work for beach, day, and evening wear. Special orders created from the finest fabrics sourced from fashion houses Dior, Valentino, Hermes, Pucci, La Croix, Yves St. Laurent, Jakob Schlaepfer, and Ungaro are also available. Additional exclusive treasures are found at the “beauty bar,” where you can adorn yourself with 18-carat gold Moroccan jewelry and the “liquid gold” of Marokissime, an elixir of 100% pure Moroccan argan and prickly pear oils coveted by Moroccan women for centuries for their beauty regimes. | 9507 Harding Ave. | 305/763–8847 | www.lebeaumaroc.com.
100% Capri.
This shop is one of only two stores by this brand in the United States. The collection is all pure linen (including the shopping bags). Designer Antonio Aiello sources and produces all pieces in Capri for an exciting interpretation that takes its wearers to exotic beach locales style-wise—and quite literally, given its clientele. You’ll find clothing for women, men, and children, and even home goods with curated glass accessories brought over from Italy. Displays of gray, wood-slatted wall panels and pools of water build up the ambience, prompting you to linger longer. Now if only there was rosé. | Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave., No. 236 | 305/866–4117 | www.100capri.com/en.
The Webster Bal Harbour.
Though smaller than its sister store in South Beach, The Webster Bal Harbour is still sizable with 2,600 square feet to house high-level fashions for both men and women. Nearly every great contemporary luxury designer is represented (Chanel, Céline, Alaia, Valentino, Givenchy, Proenza Schouler, Stella McCartney, etc.), as well as emerging runway darlings. Fashionably impatient? The store can snag ready-to-wear pieces from the latest shows. It also carries exclusive pieces, a real feat considering its influential mall neighbors, including a continuous flow of capsule collections in collaboration with the likes of Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, and Anthony Vaccarello, to name a few. | Bal Habour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave., No. 204 | 305/868–6544 | www.thewebstermiami.com.
Shopping Centers and Malls
Fodor’s Choice | Bal Harbour Shops.
Beverly Hills meets the South Florida sun at this swank collection of 100 high-end shops, boutiques, and department stores, which currently holds the title as the country’s greatest revenue-earner per square foot. Many European designers open their first North American signature store at this outdoor, pedestrian-friendly mall, and many American designers open their first boutique outside of New York here. The open-aired enclave includes Florida’s largest Saks Fifth Avenue; an 8,100-square-foot, two-story flagship Salvatore Ferragamo store; and stores by Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Valentino, and local juggernaut the Webster. Restaurants and cafés, in tropical garden settings, overflow with style-conscious diners; in fact, people-watching on the terrace of the Japenese restaurant Makoto and Italian restaurant Carpaccio might be the best in Miami (even trumping South Beach). | 9700 Collins Ave. | 305/866–0311 | www.balharbourshops.com.
Aventura
Clothing
Jessie.
A massive roster of established and young designer brands makes this one-stop boutique of clothing, swimwear, shoes, and accessories a favorite among those in the know. New daily arrivals draw from the latest celebrity looks and include designs by Alexis, Alice & Olivia, Clover Canyon, Mara Hoffman, Karina Grimaldi, J Brand, Rag & Bone, and many more. A special selection of skivvies and specialty undergarments ensures everything lays just right. | Promenade Shops Aventura, 20533 Biscayne Blvd., No. E-2 | Aventura, Florida, United States | 305/933–8198 | www.jessieboutique.com.
Restless Soul.
This multibrand boutique offers only activewear and loungewear, a new concept not yet found much outside of New York or Los Angeles. These are not your average—or even basic—sweats. Leggings in fun patterns, graffiti-style tees, mesh-inlayed tops, slouchy pants, and oh-so-soft pullovers make you as fashionable as you are functional. Favorite designers include Alo, Splits 59, Olympia, Spiritual Gangster, Phat Buddha, and Michi. Jewelry of varying talisman inspires extrapositive energy. | Biscayne Harbour Shopping Center, 18169 Biscayne Blvd. | Aventura, Florida, United States | 305/932–4155.
Jewelry
MIA Jewels.
This jewelry and accessories boutique is known for its colorful gem- and bead-laden, gold and silver earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and brooches by lines such as Cousin Claudine, Amrita, and Alexis Bittar. This is a shoo-in store for everyone: you’ll find things for trend lovers (gold-studded chunky Lucite bangles), classicists (long, colorful, wraparound beaded necklaces), and ice lovers (long Swarovski crystal cabin necklaces) alike. | Aventura Mall, 19575 Biscayne Blvd., No. 1061 | 305/931–2000.
Shopping Centers and Malls
Fodor’s Choice | Aventura Mall.
This three-story megamall offers the ultimate in South Florida retail therapy. Aventura houses many global top performers including the most lucrative outposts of several U.S. chain stores, a supersize Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, and 300 other shops like Façonnable, Dior, and MIA Jewels, which together create the fifth-largest mall in the United States. This is the one-stop, shop-’til-you-drop retail Mecca for locals, out-of-towners, and—frequently—celebrities. | 19501 Biscayne Blvd. | 305/935–1110 | www.aventuramall.com.