As the festive season approaches, The House of Creed unveils its 2025 Holiday Gift Guide—a curated showcase of artistry, luxury, and timeless craftsmanship. Designed to inspire every recipient on your list, the collection highlights Creed’s iconic scents, limited-edition sets, indulgent body luxuries, and refined accessories. From beloved classics to newly launched masterpieces, each gift embodies the spirit of giving with elegance and intention. For him, Creed presents fragrances suited to every character—from the contemporary power of Aventus to the enduring sophistication of Green Irish Tweed and the bold distinction of Absolu Aventus. Gift sets and travel-friendly sample collections add versatility, offering the perfect introduction to Creed’s celebrated creations. For her, the lineup includes trailblazing icons like Aventus For Her, fashion-forward statements such as Carmina, and the enchanting floral warmth of Queen of Silk and Eladaria—each thoughtfully composed and beautifully presented to make every moment memorable. Creed also offers universally adored scents crafted for all. Millésime Impérial shines with sunlit radiance, Silver Mountain Water channels crisp alpine freshness, and Oud Zarian—Creed’s newest masterpiece—honors decades of craftsmanship with aged oud and a luxurious blend of spices, florals, and resins. These versatile creations are exceptional choices for anyone who appreciates beauty, complexity, and modern refinement, making them standout options for any recipient this holiday season. Completing the experience, the Body Luxuries collection elevates daily rituals with opulent washes, lotions, and creams infused with signature scents. Presented in sleek, modern packaging, each piece offers a moment of indulgence and thoughtful care. Whether you’re selecting a statement fragrance or a luxurious essential, The House of Creed’s Holiday Collection transforms gifting into an art form—ensuring every gesture leaves a lasting impression. For those wishing to explore the collection in person, the primary Creed Boutique in South Florida is located in the Miami Design District at 151 NE 41st St., Suite 143, Miami, FL 33137, within Paradise Plaza. Creed also has a presence at Aventura Mall and is available at luxury retailers like Nordstrom. By ML Staff. Photos/House of Creed

This holiday season, Acqua di Parma brings the spirit of the Italian Alps to Miami with its new Antelao Holiday Collection 2025, now available at the Acqua di Parma boutique in Brickell City Centre and online at neimanmarcus.com . Inspired by the majesty of Mount Antelao in the Dolomites, the collection captures the essence of alpine beauty, warmth, and Italian craftsmanship—reimagined through contemporary design. And with every item designed to be gift-ready, the boutique offers a curated destination for exceptional holiday gifting. Created in collaboration with Milanese architect and designer Cristina Celestino, the Antelao Collection transforms traditional alpine craftsmanship into modern objets d’art. Celestino draws from hammering, brushed finishes, and tactile patterns once found in mountain woodwork and metalwork, transposing these details onto ceramic—an homage to the alpine stube, or mountain hearth. These sculptural pieces don’t just elevate interiors; they evoke memory, comfort, and celebration. At its core, the collection showcases limited-edition Masterpieces—refillable porcelain fragrance bottles rendered in hues inspired by the Dolomites: Blu Fedaia, Verde Cembro, Rosso Tovel, Giallo Cima, and Bianco Dolomia. Seasonal candles and home diffusers arrive in beloved holiday scents like Bosco (fir and clove), Torrone (pistachio and nougat), and Panettone (citrus and vanilla). Each vessel, etched with brushed porcelain and topped with engraved wooden lids, is as giftable as it is beautiful—an elevated way to scent and style any space. Completing the experience, the Art of Living range introduces collector’s treasures including the Alpine Holiday Advent Calendar and a handcrafted Chess Set made from Canaletto walnut and cherry wood. From the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites to the sleek energy of Miami, the Antelao Holiday Collection captures timeless Italian design where fragrance, decor, and celebration converge. Whether you’re buying for a host, a design aficionado, or someone who simply appreciates luxury, every item in the Acqua di Parma boutique is poised to be the perfect holiday gift. Acqua di Parma Brickell City Centre Boutique Opening Hours Monday - Saturday: 11AM - 9PM Sunday: 11AM - 7PM Location: East Block - 153 | Level 1 Contact: 786 220 8840 Website: acquadiparma.com By ML Staff. Photos/Acqua di Parma

The Spring 2026 collection from Givenchy takes a pared-back approach, focusing on sharp tailoring and clean lines. The silhouettes are structured but light, with a mix of precise jackets, narrow trousers, and sculpted dresses. The palette stays mostly neutral—black, ivory, sand—broken up with a few saturated tones like deep navy and rust. Textures play a central role. There’s matte wool against subtle sheen, soft leather cut with minimal hardware, and airy silks layered over crisp cotton. The collection avoids unnecessary embellishment and lets the cut and proportion carry the look. Even pieces with volume feel controlled, with folded shapes and rounded shoulders balanced by close-fitting waists. Accessories stay understated. Slim belts, small hand-held bags, and low heels give the looks a grounded feel. Jewelry is simple and architectural. The styling reinforces the idea of quiet structure and clarity: hair pulled back, almost bare makeup, and a focus on the clothes rather than statement elements. Overall, the collection shows a disciplined view of modern dressing. Every piece is designed to function without excess, using strong construction and thoughtful materials to create presence through simplicity. To learn more visit www.givenchy.com By ML staff. Images courtesy of Givenchy.

From Christmas Eve prix-fixe menus to Christmas Day celebrations that range from pajama-clad breakfasts with Santa to rooftop Mediterranean feasts, Miami Living brings dining experiences offer plenty of ways to eat, drink and celebrate without ever turning on the oven. Below, a curated guide to standout Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining across Miami and Miami Beach. Uchi Miami & Uchiko Miami Beach - Omakase at Home For the month of December, both Uchi Miami and Uchiko Miami Beach are offering a festive Omakase at Home package, a multi-course to-go and delivery experience to spend the holidays with some spectacular sushi. While both concepts are closed on Christmas Day (open on Christmas Eve), guests can bring some of the magic home with this beautifully wrapped box featuring twelve pieces of dressed nigiri, two makimono and the signature hama chili. It’s paired with two house favorites—crispy Chicken Karaage with cucumber and seasonal pickles, and Brussels Sprouts with fish caramel, lemon and chili, finished with a pint of ice cream. Uchi guests will receive Fried Milk—a sweet-cream base layered with salted fudge, Dulcey chocolate–covered cornflakes, and blondie pieces—while Uchiko serves up S’mores, a blend of salted fudge, toasted blondie, Dulcey chocolate and cornflakes. A half bottle of Laurent-Perrier Champagne is available as an add-on. The package is priced at $120 for the food-only box or $150 including champagne, and is available for pickup and DoorDash delivery at all Uchi and Uchiko locations from December 1–30. CHRISTMAS EVE Donna Mare - Feast of Seven Fishes This Christmas Eve, Donna Mare Italian Chophouse , located adjacent to the historic Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club invites guests to celebrate The Feast of the Seven Fishes, a beloved Italian tradition reimagined with coastal flair. Executive Chef Luigi Iannuario presents a refined four-course prix fixe menu that captures the spirit of an Italian seaside holiday. Begin with Octopus “alla Brace,” grilled to perfection with potatoes, Taggiasca olives, celery, parsley, lemon and olive oil, followed by Risotto ai Frutti di Mare with clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari and scallops in a bright tomato and white wine sauce. For the main course, enjoy Branzino “al Cartoccio,” a Mediterranean sea bass baked with roasted vegetables, white wine and herbs, and then finish with a festive Modern “Cookies & Milk” paired with creamy Eggnog.Set within the Mediterranean-inspired ambiance of the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Donna Mare offers an elegant, seaside setting for a joyful and delicious holiday celebration. The Feast of the Seven Fishes is priced at $79 per guest. Reservations can be made via OpenTable . J’Adore Miami Beach - 12 Days of Christmas J’Adore Miami Beach unwraps the holiday season with its “12 Days of Christmas” series, an immersive countdown of nightly cabaret experiences that blend festive flair with the venue’s signature glamour. From the tropical rhythms of Havana Holiday Nights to the neon-drenched nostalgia of Miami Vice: 80s Christmas Edition, each evening transports guests into a uniquely themed celebration. Highlights include the glittering decadence of Champagne and Diamonds, the provocative elegance of The Nutcracker After Dark and the Parisian jazz-soaked charm of Noël in Montmartre. The series begins on December 13 and culminates on Christmas Eve with a spectacular grand finale: a full-ensemble holiday production featuring a live orchestra, aerial ballet, truffle-infused cuisine and a midnight champagne toast to bring together South Beach magic in one unforgettable night. UVA Restaurant & Bar at Novotel Miami Brickell - Prix-Fixe Dinner UVA Restaurant & Bar at Novotel Miami Brickell invites guests to indulge in a festive three-course prix fixe Christmas Eve dinner ($65 per person). The evening begins with a choice of Burrata accompanied by roasted tomatoes, basil pesto and aged balsamic, or a refreshing Winter Beet Salad with crumbled goat cheese, candied walnuts and a bright orange vinaigrette. For the main course, diners may choose between melt-in-your-mouth Braised Short Ribs finished with a rich red wine demi and served with parsnip purée, or a beautifully caramelized Miso-Glazed Salmon paired with forbidden rice and ginger bok choy. The celebration concludes on a sweet note with a seasonal Cheesecake Spiced Graham Crust for dessert. This special prix fixe menu will be available on Wednesday, December 24, from 4 to 10:30 p.m. UVA Restaurant & Bar blends local and international flavors with tropical accents, set within an airy dining room that nods to midcentury style. Donatella Restaurant - Buon Natale Located within Donatella Boutique Hotel, the stylish Donatella Restaurant invites guests to savor la dolce vita through a menu that marries Italian authenticity with coastal sophistication. This Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, guests can experience “ Buon Natale ,” a celebration of the holiday the Italian way, in which each party of four or more will receive a bottle of wine. Enjoy as a family or as a romantic evening, where the candlelit dinner blends Old World Italian glamour with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. CHRISTMAS DAY Donna Mare - Holiday Pajama Breakfast with Santa Celebrate the wonder of the season with a magical Holiday Pajama Breakfast with Santa at Donna Mare Italian Chophouse , located adjacent the historic Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club . Designed especially for families, this festive morning invites little ones to don their favorite pajamas and delight in a cheerful seaside celebration featuring holiday story time, joyful seasonal music and complimentary photos with Santa himself. From 7 a.m. to noon, guests will enjoy an abundant buffet highlighting Donna Mare’s signature Italian flair. Indulge at the Festive Frutti di Mare Station with shrimp cocktail, smoked fish spread, smoked salmon and a chef’s charcuterie and artisan cheese display. Savor freshly carved Maple-Glazed Ham and Peppercorn-Crusted Roast Beef with Béarnaise Sauce, alongside made-to-order omelets and golden waffles with assorted accompaniments. The Hot Buffet offers delights like Crab Florentine Crespelle, Ricotta & Ham Frittata, Fluffy Scrambled Eggs, and Raspberry & Cream Cheese–Stuffed French Toast. A Continental Display of seasonal fruits, overnight oat parfaits, chia pudding with berries, yogurt and granola, and an irresistible array of pastries, sweets and holiday treats rounds out the feast. Breakfast with Santa is priced at $55 per guest, and reservations are recommended via OpenTable . ADRIFT Mare - Christmas Eve & Day Dinner This Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, celebrate above the city with a dining experience that captures the warmth and spirit of the Mediterranean coast. Curated by Gypsy Chef™ David Myers, ADRIFT Mare’s festive two-course menu invites guests to gather with loved ones and savor a modern holiday feast overlooking Biscayne Bay. Begin with the choice of Prime Roast Beef finished in a fragrant green peppercorn sauce, or delicate Maine Lobster Ravioli bathed in a bright Meyer lemon sauce, a nod to coastal Italian simplicity. Sides are meant to be shared, featuring Brown Butter Potato Purée with rich beef gravy, and Braised Swiss Chard. End on a sweet note with Mediterranean-inspired desserts, the signature MARE Baklava layered with pistachio sponge and walnut ice cream, or a creamy Basque Cheesecake with mixed berry compote. Seats are $75 per person and can be booked via OpenTable. By ML Staff. Each image courtesy of the venues in this story. Top photo/ Nur Demirbaş

When the holidays arrive, Rent a Santa — part of MiamiSuperHero.com — transforms ordinary gatherings into magical celebrations across South Florida. The company specializes in providing professional Santa Claus performers for homes, neighborhoods, schools, malls, and corporate events. Their Santas arrive in full costume — red coat, white beard, and jingling bells — bringing warmth, humor, and authenticity to every appearance. Whether greeting children at a private home or posing for hundreds of photos at a city celebration, each Santa stays in character and creates a moment that feels real, joyful, and unforgettable. Rent a Santa offers customized experiences to fit every type of event. Families and communities can book intimate visits where Santa reads stories, hands out gifts, and poses for photos. Schools, malls, and corporations can hire polished, camera-ready performers who work seamlessly with staff to keep the flow running smoothly. Clients can also enhance their celebrations with Mrs. Claus, elves, stilt-walking Nutcrackers, the Grinch, or even themed characters like a singing or bilingual Santa. Serving Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach, Rent a Santa has become a trusted name for professional holiday entertainment. Their performers are known for being punctual, friendly, and great with children — equally at ease with toddlers or large crowds. Each visit is designed to make the season feel special, complete with photo opportunities, laughter, and a touch of Christmas wonder. From cozy living rooms to grand mall events, Rent a Santa brings the spirit of the holidays wherever joy is needed. Whether it’s a traditional Santa visit or a full-scale winter spectacle with elves, music, snow machines, and lights, the company’s mission remains simple: to make Christmas unforgettable — one visit, one smile, and one “Ho Ho Ho!” at a time. Learn more at  Rent a Santa . Contact Serving All South Fla. Key West to Port St. Lucie as well Dade: 786-220-5686 Broward: 954-239-7244 Palm Beach: 561-293-3535 Email: miamisuperhero@hotmail.com Reserve Online: Click this Link to the right  Reserve Online By ML Staff. Top Photo/Nancy Le/Unsplash

The South Beach Jazz Festival, presented by local non-profit Power Access, celebrates its 10th anniversary  January 8–11, 2026 , with a lineup worthy of its milestone year. The four-day festival will feature Grammy Award-winning and internationally acclaimed artists, and local legends performing throughout Miami Beach at venues including Faena Theater, The Bass Museum of Art, Collins Park, Lincoln Road, and the Miami Beach Bandshell. Free and ticketed performances. Leading the 2026 festival is the three-time Grammy Award-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra, performing with acclaimed trumpeter Etienne Charles at the Miami Beach Bandshell on Saturday, January 10. Under the direction of pianist and musical director Oscar Hernández, the ensemble has earned international recognition for its precision, authenticity, and dedication to the hard-driving sound of New York salsa and Latin jazz. Their performance is expected to be a highlight of the festival’s 10th year. Tickets start at $42.50, and Miami Beach residents receive a 20% discount with code MB20. The festival opens Thursday, January 8, at the Faena Theater with Grammy-winning guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli performing  “Dear Mr. Bennett.”  Known worldwide for his interpretations of the Great American Songbook, Pizzarelli’s performance honors Bennett’s enduring influence on jazz and popular music. Earlier that day, Power Access will host a free virtual discussion, “Accessibility and the Arts,” from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., highlighting progress and innovation in inclusive cultural programming. On Friday, January 9, “Society Jazz Night” programming begins at The Bass Museum of Art with  “The Life & Music of Louis Armstrong”  at 5:30 p.m. Presented by Grammy-winning historian Ricky Riccardi, Director of Research Collections at the Louis Armstrong House Museum, the lecture offers rare insights into the legacy of one of jazz’s most influential figures, followed by complimentary accessible gallery tours at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. That evening, the festival continues outdoors in Collins Park with Steven Bernstein’s Millennial Territory Orchestra performing at 8:00 p.m. Bernstein, a celebrated trumpeter, composer, and arranger, will lead a group of top New York musicians in a free public concert that blends classic big-band tradition with contemporary jazz expression. Bring your blanket and picnic for a concert under the stars! A VIP Reception with reserved concert seating will precede the concert at 6:30 p.m. (Tickets $75). Saturday’s daytime programming features the Jazz for Tomorrow Student Stage, led by jazz educator Nicole Yarling, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Lincoln Road and Euclid Avenue. The family event showcases talented student ensembles from the Jazz Education Community Coalition (JECC), Young Musicians Unite, and The Miami Lighthouse, along with Power Access Scholarship winner Christopher Bedrossian, interactive drumming with the South Florida Center for Percussive Arts, and more! Free admission. The festival concludes with  “Jazz Hits the Road”  on Sunday, January 11, with the Power Access Main Stage on Lincoln Road, running from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This full day of non-stop concerts filling the plaza at 1100–1111 Lincoln Road will feature The Spirit of Goodwill Band, Lemon City Trio, The Harden Project, Federico Britos Quintet, Spam Allstars, and more — with a finale performance by Gafieira Rio Miami featuring Special Guest Nestor Torres, plus special guests throughout the day. Free admission. The All-Access Pass offers reserved seating and exclusive entry to all events, including orchestra seating for John Pizzarelli at Faena Theater, access to Friday’s VIP Reception, premium seating and a complimentary drink at the Spanish Harlem Orchestra concert, and VIP area entry at Sunday’s Main Stage. Limited passes are available at $275 per person. Founded by R. David New and produced by Power Access, the South Beach Jazz Festival has become one of Miami Beach’s leading annual cultural events, known for presenting world-class jazz while advancing accessibility and inclusion in the arts. Over the past decade, the festival has hosted Grammy winners, internationally acclaimed performers, and musicians of all abilities, transforming Miami Beach into a citywide celebration of music and community. Eventbrite RSVP encouraged for free events. For tickets, passes, and the full schedule, visit   SoBeJazzFestival.com . Follow: Instagram:  @southbeachjazzfestival Facebook:  South Beach Jazz Festival By ML staff. Images courtesy of South Beach Jazz Festival.

As the holiday season arrives, gatherings center on warm connections, festive flavors, and memorable dishes. Among the most reliable culinary stars of the season is BelGioioso Parmesan , a cheese celebrated for its rich, nutty profile and artisanal craftsmanship. Whether sprinkled, shaved, or showcased on a cheese board, this award-winning Parmesan elevates holiday entertaining with both elegance and approachable comfort. Here are some inspired pairing ideas to help you feature BelGioioso Parmesan in unforgettable ways. BelGioioso Parmesan Chickpea Salad A Centerpiece for Holiday Cheeseboards BelGioioso Parmesan steals the spotlight on any festive cheeseboard. Its firm texture and crystalline crunch contrast beautifully with softer cheeses. Pair it with rosemary crackers, artisan baguette slices, or even walnut bread to emphasize its delicate saltiness. Fresh seasonal fruits—pomegranates, figs, pears, and crisp apples—add sweetness and color, creating a visually inviting spread. BelGioioso Parmesan Centerpiece Cheeseboard For added variety, incorporate complementary textures: candied nuts, hazelnuts, and Marcona almonds offer a toasty balance, while a bowl of Castelvetrano olives or holiday-spiced jams adds tangy brightness. BelGioioso Parmesan’s versatility ensures it harmonizes effortlessly with nearly any board component. Warm Pairings for Cozy Gatherings The Parmesan’s robust flavor also shines in warm dishes and winter comforts. Shave or grate it over roasted Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, or garlic-herb potatoes for an instant flavor upgrade. Its umami notes make holiday soups—such as creamy tomato bisque, mushroom velouté, or minestrone—taste deeper and more luxurious. For a truly festive comfort dish, stir BelGioioso Parmesan into a truffle risotto or sprinkle it over baked pasta for a crisp, savory topping that melts beautifully. BelGioioso Parmesan Brussel Sprout Burrata Crostini BelGioioso Parmesan Fresh Mozzarella Tomato Soup Wine & Beverage Pairings to Elevate the Experience BelGioioso Parmesan pairs exceptionally well with holiday beverages. For wine lovers, consider a sparkling Prosecco or Brut Champagne—the bubbles lift the cheese’s richness and refresh the palate. A Chianti Classico or Barolo complements the cheese with earthy depth, while a crisp Sauvignon Blanc highlights its nutty nuances. If you’re leaning toward winter warmers, try pairing Parmesan with mulled wine, spiced cider, or a smooth bourbon neat. The contrast between warm spice and salty complexity creates a pairing that feels both comforting and refined. BelGioioso Parmesan Cheeseboard Wine Pairing Unexpected Yet Delicious Holiday Twists BelGioioso Parmesan also plays well in sweet-savory combinations. Drizzle honey or fig syrup over thick shavings for a delightful treat, or pair it with dark chocolate for a sophisticated dessert board. Add it to holiday salads or appetizers such as a Berry Parmesan Salad, Parmesan-stuffed dates, focaccia bites, or savory palmiers for small but impactful touches of flavor. BelGioioso Parmesan Fig Apple Crostini BelGioioso Parmesan Berries Orange Beet Salad with Stracciatella A Holiday Staple Worth Celebrating From cheeseboards to festive entrées, BelGioioso Parmesan delivers classic holiday charm with artisanal quality. Its rich, nutty flavor profile and remarkable versatility make it the perfect companion for gatherings of all sizes. Whether you’re hosting a grand seasonal feast or simply enjoying a quiet winter evening at home, BelGioioso Parmesan adds warmth, sophistication, and unforgettable taste to every holiday moment. BelGioioso Parmesan & Chicken Orzo with Marinated Fresh Mozzarella To learn more recipes visit: www.belgioioso.com By ML staff. Images courtesy of BelGioioso Cheese.

On a week when Miami feels calibrated to spectacle, the most memorable moments often arrive quietly, and then stay with you. That was the spell inside Villa Paula, where The Future Perfect inaugurated its new Miami home during Design Miami 2025 with a sweeping, site activating presentation across the villa’s grand rooms and lush grounds. Villa Paula itself is part of the story. The Future Perfect describes the landmark as a former Cuban consulate residence reimagined into an immersive design environment, one where contemporary work is integrated into the building’s original 1920s architecture in Little Haiti. Within that layered setting, the lighting display by Ben and Aja Blanc did not simply decorate the rooms. It authored them. Ben and Aja Blanc are known for sculptural lighting, mirrors, furniture, and collectible objects, all meticulously handcrafted with techniques that span mirror silvering, blown glass, and hand built ceramics. Their Rhode Island studio practice is rooted in material intelligence and historical references, but the results feel distinctly current: playful, compositionally refined, and designed to be lived with, not merely observed. At Villa Paula, that sensibility landed with particular precision. The Future Perfect’s opening presentation positioned the house as “a site of discovery,” bringing together works selected to activate the building’s interiors and landscape, including additional works by Ben and Aja Blanc among an international roster of contemporary designers. In a villa where stained glass, patterned tile, and old world proportions already carry a kind of visual music, the Blancs’ lighting functioned like a measured counterpoint: modern, sculptural silhouettes that did not compete with history, but tuned it. The Future Perfect spotlighted Ben & Aja Blanc’s signature Willa 10 Light Chandelier with custom handmade ceramic shades, reinforcing that their pieces were staged not as product, but as presence, in conversation with the architecture and the other works on view. The Willa family has a botanical logic, an elegant sense of growth. The Future Perfect describes the Willa Chandelier, 10 Light Vertical as hand blown glass suspended in space, built around direct drive LED modules designed for smooth dimming and everyday functionality. In a different ceramic iteration, the gallery notes how the form can read like a cluster of mushrooms, with glazed shades that draw as much attention as what they illuminate. That idea of illumination as both atmosphere and objecthood is central to the Blancs’ work: a light that behaves like a sculpture, and a sculpture that performs like light. At Villa Paula, this matters. Lighting in a historic home is rarely neutral. It reveals the geometry of arches, the sheen of tile, the depth of old plaster, the patina that makes a room feel inhabited. The Blancs’ pieces sharpened these textures rather than washing them out. The result was a kind of quiet drama, one rooted in craft and restraint, not volume. The debut of Villa Paula signals a longer term commitment, not a weeklong cameo. The Future Perfect has framed the opening as the first chapter of an ongoing program, with a “layered, evolving experience” across the house and grounds. Villa Paula is a historic counterbalance to the contemporary, immersive installations that The Future Perfect is known for. That context amplifies the impact of Ben and Aja Blanc’s installation. Their work sits naturally within The Future Perfect’s ethos, which has long favored environments over white box presentation. Villa Paula makes that approach feel inevitable. The house does what great architecture always does: it asks designers to respond, not impose. Design Miami week tends to accelerate quickly, but Villa Paula’s social opening felt notably focused. On December 1, Architectural Digest and The Future Perfect hosted a kickoff event at Villa Paula, inviting guests to gather for cocktails and light bites and to take a first look inside the new Miami outpost. In many ways, that single evening clarified the cultural positioning of the entire project. A new gallery space does not become a destination through square footage alone. It becomes a destination through the community it convenes and the point of view it stakes. Hosting an AD anchored evening at the start of the week communicated exactly that: Villa Paula is not merely an address, it is a program, a platform, and a new locus for collectible design in Miami. Miami Design Week often rewards the immediate. Ben and Aja Blanc reward the lingering. Their practice foregrounds craftsmanship and process, and their forms feel informed by nature without becoming literal. In the charged atmosphere of Design Miami 2025, their work offered something rarer than novelty: composure. Villa Paula, with its historic gravity and newly activated rooms, made that composure visible. The Blancs’ lighting did what the best design does. It altered the way you moved through a space. It made you slow down, look up, notice how a curve meets a ceiling, how a material catches and releases illumination, how a room can feel newly arranged without being overdesigned. And perhaps that is the true headline of The Future Perfect’s Villa Paula debut. It reminded the city that the most future-facing interiors are not the loudest ones. They are the ones that understand time: the time embedded in buildings, the time invested in making, and the time we give to looking. Artists Ben & Aja Blanc Website: www.benandajablanc.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/benandajablanc By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Ben and Aja Blanc

CHANEL Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear unveils a fresh take on elegance. The collection mixes classic tailoring with relaxed silhouettes, showing off soft pastel shades alongside bold black-and-white contrasts. Coats and blazers are structured but wearable, while dresses flow with a light, effortless feel. Fabrics feel luxurious — crisp cottons, fluid silks, and soft knits. Details are minimalist: simple lines, subtle stitching, and clean finishes dominate. Accessories are kept understated, focusing on texture and shape rather than heavy embellishment. Shoes and bags complement the outfits quietly, with polished leather and refined hardware rather than loud logos. The mood is confident but relaxed. Looks seem meant for everyday life — lunch meetings, gallery visits, evening strolls — rather than dramatic runways. There’s an air of quiet confidence, where ease and sophistication coexist. The collection doesn’t shout; it hums. To learn more visit www.chanel.com By ML staff. Images courtesy of Chanel.

Fendi Home brings the brand’s design language into the bedroom with a selection of beds that focus on clean lines, soft materials, and subtle detail. The designs carry Fendi’s identity without relying on obvious branding. Shapes are comfortable and minimal, with a focus on upholstered headboards, rounded edges, and balanced proportions. The palette stays neutral, using beige, sand, cream, and muted tones. Fabrics include linen blends, velvet, and leather accents. Stitching details reference the brand’s craftsmanship, but the look remains understated. Metal or wood frames are integrated in a way that keeps attention on comfort rather than decoration. The beds are designed to work with different room styles, from contemporary spaces to warmer, layered interiors. Modular elements allow for variations in headboard height, padding, or fabric choice. Each piece can be customized to match the scale of the room and the rest of the décor. Fendi Home keeps the focus on texture and proportion instead of statement shapes. The result is a bedroom piece that reads as refined and quiet, designed for everyday use rather than display. It reflects Fendi’s approach to interiors: subtle luxury, thoughtful detail, and comfort as the starting point for design. To learn more visit  www.fendicasa.com By ML staff. Images courtesy of Fendi Casa.

MILA Miami has been named the highest-grossing independent restaurant in the United States, topping the 2025 Top 100 Independents ranking published by Restaurant Business. The distinction places the Miami Beach flagship above some of the country’s most established dining institutions. According to Restaurant Business, MILA generated $51,115,747 in sales to claim the number one position on the 2025 list. The achievement follows a steady rise over several years: the restaurant debuted at number five in 2022, held that ranking again in 2023, climbed to number two in 2024 with more than $49 million in sales, and now leads the national ranking. Other restaurants appearing near the top include Pastis in New York City, Le Diplomate in Washington, D.C., and Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami. Opened in 2020, MILA is the founding concept of Riviera Dining Group, a hospitality company that has built its reputation around immersive dining and nightlife experiences. Located in Miami Beach, the rooftop venue is centered on a MediterrAsian culinary philosophy that blends influences from the Mediterranean and Asia within a design-forward, performance-driven environment. Beyond its main restaurant, MILA has expanded into a multi-concept destination. The property includes MILA Omakase, a 10-seat sushi counter; MILA Lounge, a nightlife-focused space; and MILA MM, a members-only concept that has grown to four locations across Riviera Dining Group’s portfolio. In 2024, the restaurant underwent further internal development, including menu evolution and the expansion of its Learning & Development department, aimed at training and leadership growth across the organization. Founder and CEO Gregory Galy has credited MILA’s success to a holistic approach that combines cuisine, design, music, service, and brand identity into a single experience. Riviera Dining Group has continued to expand beyond Miami, with current and upcoming projects in New York, Las Vegas, and Dubai. Its portfolio includes concepts such as CASA NEOS, AVA MEDITERRAEGEAN, CLAUDIE, and the forthcoming CASA NEOS MM Lounge. MILA’s culinary program is led by Chef Michaël Michaelidis, whose background includes work with Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon. The restaurant’s interiors were designed by Olya Volkova and Lazaro Rosa-Violan, drawing on natural elements and the Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi to shape the space’s atmosphere. Riviera Dining Group Founder & CEO Gregory Galy More information about the restaurant and its concepts is available via MILA Miami and Riviera Dining Group , with updates shared through their Instagram presence. By ML Staff. Photos: MILA - Riviera Dining Group’s (RDG).

In 1954, during a period of personal upheaval, Pablo Picasso created a small but significant group of paintings portraying his youngest children, Claude and Paloma. Painted in Vallauris shortly after his separation from Françoise Gilot, the works reflect an intimate moment in the artist’s life, shaped by distance, reunion, and emotional transition. One of these paintings, The Two Children, dated May 14, 1954, is now being shown publicly after decades in private custody at the Gary Nader Art Centre in Miami. Pablo Picasso, The two children on view (1954) at Gary Nader Art Centre. The work is part of a series of six oil paintings, each measuring approximately 116 by 89 centimeters, in which Picasso explored childhood through simplified forms, flat color planes, and a restrained, almost contemplative visual language. Claude is frequently depicted in blue, engaged in drawing or play, while Paloma appears in green, rendered with a quieter, more reflective presence. Art historians have often linked the stylistic clarity of this series to the late cut-outs of Henri Matisse, completed shortly before his death in 1954. The emotional context of the series is closely tied to Picasso’s reunion with his children in early 1954. Their visit to Vallauris followed the dissolution of his relationship with Gilot the year before and appears to have prompted a concentrated period of reflection on family, memory, and absence. Rather than focusing on innovation of form, the paintings revisit similar compositions as if to preserve a fleeting moment. Gary Nader during the opening gala of the Picasso to Botero exhibition at Gary Nader Art Centre. Among the six works, the best-known example is Claude dessinant, Françoise et Paloma, painted on May 17, 1954, which is held by the Musée Picasso–Paris. The Two Children, completed three days earlier, shares clear compositional and emotional parallels, suggesting Picasso was working through variations of the same intimate theme rather than producing a single definitive image. Unlike many of Picasso’s works from the period, the paintings of Claude and Paloma were not immediately released into the market. Scholars including Kirk Varnedoe, Werner Spies, and Susan Galassi have described the series as a pivotal moment in Picasso’s late career, anticipating later explorations of domestic life and legacy, including his Las Meninas variations. The decision to retain these canvases privately underscores their personal significance, positioning them as reflections of Picasso’s identity as a father rather than as public statements. The presentation of The Two Children in Miami offers rare access to a work that Picasso himself chose to protect from circulation. Its exhibition provides insight into a quieter, more introspective dimension of the artist’s practice —one centered on affection, vulnerability, and restraint. A striking installation view of 'Picasso to Botero' at Gary Nader Art Centre, featuring rare portraits and the 1954 masterpiece The Two Children. The exhibition is on view through March 28, 2026. The painting is currently on view at the Gary Nader Art Centre, offering audiences an opportunity to engage with a seldom-seen chapter of Picasso’s work and life. By ML Staff. Photos: Gary Nader Art Centrea.