As part of his new chief musical curator gig at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar (WKB), Latin Grammy award-winning jazz flautist Nestor Torres will treat patrons of the artsy restaurant to twice-monthly performances, starting tomorrow night. Father/daughter owners Tony and Jessica Goldman (of The Goldman Properties) are delighted at the collaboration with Torres, who is a Miami resident and longtime friend of the Goldman family. “I’ve known [Tony] for over twenty years. He’s quite an artistic and creative being. His vision and example are very compatible with my desire to make music an integral part of a community's cultural and social transformation,” said Torres.

The globally acclaimed musician’s resume is stacked, to say the least: he’s performed with icons like Tito Puente, recorded with pop heavyweights Ricky Martin and Gloria Estefan, and even composed a concert for the Dalai Lama. As curator at WKB, Torres will oversee musical programming for indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as assist in event coordination for the restaurant’s outdoor mural park, Wynwood Walls. We caught up with Torres to find out which musicians and styles of music he’ll bring to WKB.

What are you main initiatives for the musical program at WKB?
NESTOR TORRES: Together with Tony and his daughter Jessica, my goal is to elevate the function of music in a dining setting—[to go] from musicians acting as ‘living human jukeboxes’ to a place where the music becomes a key, nourishing item on the WKB experience menu. Additionally, I want to support and share my musical philosophy with other artists, so that they are able to reignite their passion and commitment to their own music making. If artists want to thrive, not just survive, they must be keenly aware that their musical career must be treated as both a calling and a business.

Which local musicians will you tap?
NT: There is a great array of musical talent in South Florida, from pianist Silvano Monasterios to singer Big Brooklyn Red, among many others. My goal is to feature them in a way they have not been presented before, as well as present young talent that has yet to be discovered.

Are there any genres or musical styles you will focus on?
NT: Part of what makes my role as musical curator so exciting is that I will be able to bring many different genres of music to the guests: jazz, Brazilian, Caribbean, Argentinian, and classical, just to name a few, as well as different mixtures and blends of styles.

Wynwood’s Art Walks have come under scrutiny for “not focusing on the art.” You’ll be performing with DJ Zoel during the April 14 Art Walk. What is your take on the criticism?
NT: Art for its own sake always runs the risk of becoming self-indulgent and irrelevant. On the other hand, art as nothing but an excuse for people to go hang out without any sense of appreciation for what brought them there is a lost or under-appreciated treasure. The music I will be presenting—and how it will be presented—will reinforce the artistic component during the walks.

Nestor Torres will perform with pianist Silvano Monasterios on Thursday, April 12 at 8PM and with DJ Zoel on Saturday, April 14.2550 N.W. 2nd Ave., Miami, 205-722-8307

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Local artist Leslie Gabaldón tackles the intangible nature of identity in her new photography exhibit, "Ink on Roses." For each work, the artist tediously penned poetry excerpts and mathematical equations onto roses in various life stages and then photographed them.

Each piece of prose is paired with a perennial that visually emulates it: A plump, fuchsia flower is imprinted with phrases from the famously erotic and romantic poet Pablo Neruda, and a decaying, single petal sits atop a mirrored reflection of itself, appropriately titled Yo y el Tiempo (Time and I).

Gabaldón's analogies are layered and provoking, exposing human fragilities, sensualities, and intimacies with each new image. "[The exhibit] is about women, love, passion, and the adversities of human relationships that shape the path of our lives," said Gabaldón. "Unsaid words, unopened letters... It's all about reading in between the lines."

Prior to exhibiting at Dot Fiftyone, the Venezuelan artist successful showcased "Ink on Roses" at Buenos Aires’ ArteBa and Bogota's Artbo, both major South American art fairs. She also served as an artist in residence at the Dominican Republic’s Altos de Chavon, an affiliate of New York's prestigious Parsons design school. Through April 20. Dot Fiftyone, 51 N.W. 36th St., Miami, 305-573-9994

Last weekend, following a recent stint in Palm Beach, Joey Wolffer’s Styleliner rolled into the Shelborne for a two-day pop-up—the style-mobile’s first-ever stop in Miami. The mobile boutique, which roves everywhere from the Hamptons to Montreal, is stocked with an internationally-curated assortment of clothing and accessories. “We felt like some of the brands we have were too perfect for Miami to not spend some time here,” said Wolffer. We challenged the former trend director for Jones Apparel Group to style three Miami looks (BELOW) and, in between styling tips, got her take on Miami and when she'll next be driving through our fair city.    

When will the The Styleliner return to Miami Beach?
JOEY WOLFFER: We are planning an extended stay for next winter. We hope to do a Styleliner pop-up for Basel and then be down here for the month of March.

Where do you like to eat, drink, and shop in Miami?
JW: I loved The Webster—what a great concept store! I had delicious drinks on the roof of the Soho Beach House. Some of my favorite finds were from the street vendors. I am also officially addicted to the salads at La Sandwicherie. 

What do you find totally unique about Miami street style?
JW: I love that Miami is always evolving yet stays true to its original Deco architecture and design. What I love about Miami style is that everyone is confident in their individual style. 

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Breezy Brunch at Il Gabbiano: "Neon Green is a hot color for the season, and I love to mix it with shades of blue. I think Miami girls are confident and not afraid to wear color, so this look is perfect for a Miami brunch."

MY BOB hat ($225, sourced in Belgium), Serpui Marie ombré green and turquoise minaudière ($215, sourced in Brazil), Shourouk pendant with Swarovski crystals and rope necklace ($330, sourced in France).

 

A Day on the Beach: "Layering long, beaded necklaces on top of this low-cut top is perfect for going from the beach to lunch!"

Aquarius neon wrap sarong ($60, sourced in Miami), Barbara Boner fluorescent fringe tote ($400, sourced in London), Megan Park beaded necklaces ($195, sourced in Australia).

 

Cocktails at Soho Beach House: "For night, I've noticed that sparkle is a must in Miami. I personally love the mixture of natural and muted elements with shine."

Laura B. Swarovski and metal mesh clutch ($950, sourced in Spain), KMO ewel ombré link necklace ($325, sourced in France), Appartement à Louer resin and mother of pearl ring ($195, sourced in France).

 

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Select items available to shop online at thestyleliner.com

Jacket, Balmain. Shirt, Yohji Yamamoto. Jeans, AG Jeans.
Shoes, Donald J Pliner

For more than 45 years, Miami-based designer Donald J. Pliner has traveled the world and mastered the art of shoemaking. And while the style aficionado’s wardrobe reflects that of a jet-setter, comfort might just be his top priority.

What are your go-to wardrobe items?
A great pair of pants with a blazer of some sort and very fabulous shoes. I wear primarily Yohji Yamamoto jackets. My shirts are mostly Yohji, Costume National, or Balmain. That’s really my uniform.

And pants?
Adriano Goldschmied, Prada, or Neil Barrett jeans.

Whose style do you most admire?
I think Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren, and Yohji Yamamoto are beyond. What they do is something that is very accessible in every way.

Who influences your style as a designer?
I knew Keith Richards, the Rolling Stones, and the Beatles when I first started in the business. How they’ve all emerged—that’s where my inspiration comes from.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JIM ARBOGAST; DOG GROOMING BY GROOMING LOFT

American tastemaker Kelly Wearstler will be making a personal appearance at Neiman Marcus Coral Gables on Friday, April 13 to show off her spring 2012 collection. In addition to the new art-inspired women’s ready-to-wear line, Wearstler is also the interior design mind behind The Tides and The Viceroy’s jaw-dropping décor. Based in Beverly Hills, Wearstler’s aesthetic embodies all things glamorous and breezy. Expect boldly bright blouses, dresses, and shorts, as well as bubbly and small bites. 12 PM–2 PM. 390 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables; RSVP katharine_rubino@neimanmarcus.com or 786-999-1006

Fact: Miami women can never have enough swimsuits or cover-ups. Lucky for us, The Orchid Boutique recently opened a second outpost on Eighth Street. Joining its Brickell sister, the shop is brimming with beach staples, such as chic bathing suits, hats, breezy tunics, bags, and accessories. Stocking styles from more than 23 swim brands, locals and tourists alike can scoop up exclusive labels like Doppia, Malai, Maui, SABZ, Sav Summer, and Agatha Ruiz de la Prada. Established lines by Nanette Lepore, L*Space, Vix, and Beach Bunny are also in-store. 224 8th St., Miami, 305-397-8994

agua at Delano

Attention all spa fanatics: commencing March 19, Miami welcomes Wellness Week 2012 (through March 25). For those of you feeling knotty by nature, the weeklong program offers half-price treatments, or flat $50 rates and complimentary community wellness programs at participating spas, fitness centers, and yoga and Pilates studios. Soothing sanctuaries such as Bellezza Spa, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa Miami Beach, and agua at Delano (ABOVE) are all participating the relaxation roundup.

The terrace at Juvia

New penthouse eatery Juvia is bringing a whole new flavor to the 1111 Lincoln Road garage rooftop. Stepping out of the building’s private elevator and into the 10,000 square-foot restaurant, diners are led through the terrace lounge, anchored by a remarkably lush, Amazonian-inspired plant wall, and into the main dining room amid sweeping views of Miami Beach.  

Elsewhere in the dining room is an open kitchen and casual seating that belies the restaurant's truly French service. With a mix of Asian (executive chef Sunny Oh), French (executive chef Laurent Cantineaux), and South American (owners Jonas and Alexandra Millan) flair, the menu has a bevy of seafood dishes, such as rock shrimp served in a spicy curry sauce and a sea bass so delicately prepared that it melts in your mouth.

Owners Jonas and Alexandra (famous for Bonito restaurant in St. Barths) named the restaurant after a nut tree in their native Brazil. For their culinary team, the pair chose Cantineaux for his pedigree as a protégé of Daniel Boulud and Oh for his ten plus years experience running the kitchen at Nobu South Beach.         

The menu changes regularly, but French delicacies can be found in the form of pork confit and feather light foie gras. And an iceberg salad topped with pancetta, figs, gorgonzola cheese, and flaky lobster salad is pure heaven. Also stellar were the side dishes: vegetable cassoulet, freshly grilled vegetables, and sweet and savory couscous.    

The impressive cocktail menu boasts specialties such as pear sangria, made with sauvignon blanc, Asian pears, and St. Germain, and Juvia’s signature Purple Rain, a combination of vodka and purple Peruvian corn. Take your cocktail at the bar inside the main dining room and you might just be treated to a stargazer’s view, courtesy of a retractable roof. 

Save room for dessert. Treats such as the chocolate candy bar and apple tart with homemade ice cream are well worth the indulgence. 1111 Lincoln Road

Liliana Aguilera

From whimsical charms to chunky rings, Varelli jewelry has Miami style down to a science. We spoke to the local line's 32-year-old designer, Liliana Aguilera, to learn more about her inspiration and the next big jewelry trends.  

Where did the name “Varelli” originate? 
LILIANA AGUILERA: It’s a tribute to my sisters and the critical role that each of them has played in my life. It’s a combination of their names, which are Viviana, Ariana, and Eliana.

What makes your designs so special? 
LA: I’ve found that my designs are most successful when they are the direct result of something that inspires me, such as love, my guardian angel, or a moment in my life that was particularly special for me. 

	Lucky Charm necklace ($75) by Varelli

How does your Brazilian and Bolivian heritage manifest itself in your collection?  
LA: With nature. In a nutshell, Brazil contributes exoticism and Bolivia contributes romanticism.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
LA: I use 18K gold plate, cotton cords, leather, crocodile, and a variety of stones, such as turquoise, pink quartz, and amethyst.

What are the big jewelry trends this spring?
LA: Bright colors, exotic combinations, and bold pieces with contemporary flair.

What do you think is Miami's best-kept secret? 
LA: Rik Rak Salon on Brickell Avenue. I just love to be pampered. [I can] have my hair done, while sipping champagne, followed by a little bit of shopping—all in the same place

Available at Aurum Collection, 5760 Sunset Dr., 305-668-0221; varellidesigns.com

As per usual, Carolina Herrera was the picture of poise and elegance at the grand opening of her CH Carolina Herrera boutique at Bal Harbour Shops. The designer wore a chic black and white pleated skirt (from the CH Carolina spring collection) with a black button-down shirt to the opening, where guests perused the diffusion line's apparel and accessories for women, men, and children. With boutiques in Boca Raton and Coral Gables, the Bal Harbour shop marks the Venezuelan designer’s third CH Carolina Herrera foray into the Florida market. We sat down with the lady of the hour to chat about her proclivity for ball gowns with pockets, words of wisdom that she lives by, and her most prized fashion possession. 

Your fall 2012 collection showed many gowns with pockets. Is that a personal favorite design touch of yours?
CAROLINA HERRERA: I love [pockets]. They are very useful. I usually do pockets in my dresses because when I go out I only carry my lipstick, and I always place it in there.

You’ve been designing under your label for 31 years. As a designer, and a brand, what is the key to longevity?  
CH: I’ve been very consistent in the style I wanted to show, which is sophisticated and elegant. My clothes are for the women of today: An independent woman who isn’t afraid of being glamorous, chic, and  elegant—and who wants to be admired by both men and women.

What is your most prized fashion possession?
CH: There are so many. I don’t know any woman who has only one. You go out to buy a pair of shoes and then you see an evening gown and you forget about the shoes. You don’t need it, but it looks beautiful hanging in [your] closet.

What about essentials? What should every woman stock in her closet?
CH: I think every woman should own a dress, a pencil skirt and a gown. It’s important to dress for your age and figure.

Designers are embracing social media and even live-streaming their shows in order to give the public instant access to their latest work. What is your take on fashion's digital renaissance?
CH: I think it’s fabulous. At this moment, fashion is so exciting because of the publicity, the internet, and the fact that people can sit in their houses and see the shows.

What is your mantra?
CH: Always leave room for fantasy.