Closet Confessions | Fabian Basabe

Currently a restauranteur, formerly a model— but always oh so stylish. Meet Fabian Basabe, owner of Da Vittorio Restaurant in Coral Gables.

Perhaps it's the New Yorker in him, but this Socialite has a signature style that never misses. Basabe's look is classic, clean, and easy, with the ability to make even a pair of jeans and a tee feel sophisticated. Whether he's off to a cocktail party or throwing it down in the kitchen of his classic Italian restaurant, Basabe is always impeccably dressed and groomed.

With wife Martina in the luxe lingerie biz (her family owns the Italian brand La Perla), and friends the likes of Kelly Killoren-Bensimon and Kourtney Kardashian, it's hard to blend in when you're Fabian Basabe. But don't let his All-American style and boyish charm fool you; he enjoys being the life of the party (see question #10.)


Ten questions for Miami's most influential Stylistas
Name: Fabian Basabe

1. Describe your style: Preppy and classic

2. Your go-to outfit: J Brand jeans, Fay fitted shirt, Tod’s Docksiders

3. Can’t-live-without-it accessory: I always wear a belt

4. Best place to bargain shop: On Bleecker and 6th in NYC for vintage silver buckles and vintage belts

5. Flip flops or crocs? Neither I wear Superga

6. Most memorable fashion faux-pas: Versace black suede and crocodile loafers… it was the 90s!!!

7. Whose style do you admire most? Charlie Watts, Rolling Stones

8. Biggest splurge? Double breast blue blazer and gray pants from Fratelli Di Donato, the legendary Italian tailors

9. Favorite designer? Ralph Lauren

10. The secret to great style is… personality

Budget Babe: Lace Louboutin Look for Less

It's a lace-off!

What's the difference between these two pairs of pumps? Just a red sole, and about a thousand bucks. While every girl dreams of her first pair of Loubi's the truth of the matter is it's called dreaming for a reason... Save some cash (or lots!) and get these nearly identical lace pumps from GoJane.com for just $19.50. Then pat yourself on the back and go buy a dress to match!

Deal of the Day | European Wax Center

With fireworks stands popping up on every street corner you can almost smell the Fourth of July! But before we all go skipping around in our teeny bikinis there's always some "housekeeping" that needs to be taken care of first. 

Yes, I'm talking about the dreaded bikini wax. 

Get over your fear (I did!) and head over to the new European Wax Center in Coral Gables, where first timers can get their bikini wax for FREE. The recently opened facility is offering a free body wax to first time clients; women can choose between a complimentary eye brow, under arm, or bikini line wax, while fellas have the option of a free eye brow, ear or nose wax.

EWC Coral Gables gets the Editor's Seal of Approval! The center is not only clean and welcoming, but the staff is friendly, professional, and knowledgable; making a not so enjoyable beauty routine much less of a pain. (The chocolate treats on your way out don't hurt either!)

If you're a frequent waxer, make sure to take advantage of EWC's Unlimited Wax Pass which gives you unrestricted waxing access for an entire year. The pass ranges from $195 to under $500, depending on the area you wax.

If You Go

European Wax Center Coral Gables

1212 South Dixie Highway

Coral Gables, FL, 33146

Try It On | Summer Sandals

‘Tis the season for bare shoulders, shorts, and sassy sandals!  Here are 3 basic sandals that will get you through the summer, and take you from the beach, to brunch and even the bar.

Beach: Thongs

No, not the kind in your boudoir

I have been know to parade around everywhere in 5-inchers (yes, even at the supermarket!) but sometimes you just need something practical. Beach sandals should be durable, but always cute! An alternative to the boring old flip-flop? The ‘Fit’ by Havaianas is an adorable rubber slingback thong and comes in a rainbow of colors.  At just $28, get a pair to match each of your bikinis.

Brunch: Gladiators

Sparta never looked this good  

Yep, they’re still around and better than ever. Gladiator sandals are gracing the displays of every shoe shop and department store window.  This summer there is nothing more chic for your feet. Splurge on a pair in a neutral tone— you’ll keep reaching for them time and time again. Try BCBG’s ‘Irmah’ sandal, $111 at bluefly.com.

Bar: Wedges
A step up on the competition 

Tall and chunky meet to make the perfect, sexy summer shoe. From jeans and leggings, to sundresses and shorts, a wedge complements any look and makes your legs worthy of a double take. Bebe makes some of the fiercest shoes, and their summery espadrille-style denim wedge is no exception. Pick your poision–‘Steffi’ is 

available in black, white or traditional blue denim,  $114.95 from zappos.com.

FASHION FLASH: TAudrey offer expires at midnight!

Last call, shopaholics!!

There's only one hour left to receive 20% OFF your purchase at TAudrey.com.


Use the code "KellysKloset" at checkout to save on TAudrey's entire collection of handmade accessories.

Clock's ticking....

What I Wore | Meeting Helio

I had the pleasure of meeting the Dancing with the Stars champ, Helio Castroneves, in Coral Gables this week. The record breaking Indycar winner made an appearance at Books & Books while on a press tour for his new book, "Victory Road." Helio was as charming as he is adorable. When I asked what field he would be conquering next, someone suggested perhaps television? To which he replied, "I have a terrible memory, that's why I drive in ovals." This racing babe turned dancing star could have a career in comedy.

What I Wore
Dress: Forever 21
Blazer: ZARA
Watch: Swatch
Lips: MAC Satin Lipstick in 'Pink Nouveau'

Deal of the Day | Shop Suey Boutique

I am in complete lust with this clutch I just found over at ShopSueyBoutique.com. Meet 'Aimee', she's under $50 and comes in pink, camel & black. The perfect companion for this summer's denim craze, I can see it perfectly paired with a floral romper and distressed denim vest. This heavy metal bag is hard to resist — especially when you can get 20% OFF by using the code "SECRET" at checkout. Happy Shopping, fashionistas!

Try It On | Statement Lips

A Tuesday trend: bright lips! Forget classic red, take the unconventional route and make your pout pop with a fun shade like M⋅A⋅C's Amplified Lipstick in 'Morange'. Whether you work it with a flirty summer dress or while you're baking poolside in a bikini, this shade is H-O-T. But please don't overdo the look— statement lips work best when the rest of your makeup is toned down. Less is so much more.

Go Shopping

MAC Cosmetics, Miami Beach
650 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL‎
305.604.9040

MAC Cosmetics, Aventura Mall
19501 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL‎ 
305.682.0460‎

Best Kept Secret | Wow Brows

If your eyes are the window to your soul, then your eyebrows are the frame. 

There is nothing I am more particular about than my eyebrows. So when Gail Schneider of Wow Brows in Sunny Isles invited me to her studio for a complimentary brow shape, I was apprehensive rather than excited. Not that Gail isn't experienced, to the contrary— she is a brow guru in the same right as Anastasia of Beverly Hills. She has groomed the most fastidious of brows in her former New York City salon, and has a devoted following that includes the women of CNN and beauty editors like Aly Walansky. 

Having recently relocated to Miami, Gail has joined forces with her sister Dari, owner of the SoBe waxing salon 'So Smooth Waxing Miami.' The waxing duo has set up shop inside Miami Beach Fitness in Sunny Isles, baptizing their joint venture Wow Brows & Waxing Studio.

My "WOW" Moment
After getting over my initial fear, I made an appointment with Gail and confessed to her that no one had touched my brows in years, (yes years!) She assured me she would be gentle and honor my wish for a natural, full brow. About thirty minutes later, after getting trimmed, tweezed, and waxed, I was indeed wowed! Gail's fabulous work evened out my brows and opened up my eyes. I don't even have to use brow gel anymore thanks to my new perfect shape.

Besides brow shaping fit for a diva, Gail & Dari also offer full body waxing, brow tinting, facials and massage. They use only natural wax and products, and ensure you'll get the most bang for your buck, with a brow shape priced at only $20! 

Make sure to mention Kelly's Kloset on your next visit to Wow Brows and receive 10% OFF any service. (That means A-list brows can be yours for just $18.)


If You Go

Wow Brows & Waxing Studio
17050 Collins Ave
(inside Miami Beach Fitness gym)
Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, FL
305.244.8088  or 617.763.7405

Hours: Mon.- Thurs. 10am - 6pm, Fri. 10am - 4pm

What I Wore | A Hard Rockin' Friday

A little late, but I wanted to post this fun look from Memorial Day weekend. My boyfriend (the cutie to my left) and I spent Friday night partying with our friends at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood to celebrate a birthday. Bright blue leopard is always festive!

What I Wore

Dress: Forever 21

Bracelet: Joan Boyce (Thanks boyfriend!)

Shoes: Steve Madden

What I Wore | Shopping at Emporium

What I Wore
Dress: INC at Macy's

Necklace & Bracelets: TAudrey

Shoes: Jessica Simpson Collection

Best Kept Secret | Emporium

Lately I've found it increasingly difficult to find boutiques that aren't trying to sell Forever21 copycats for major bucks. So when I walked into Emporium in Coral Gables it was like a breath of fresh air. From the quaint, vintage feeling to the adorable pup that greeted me as I made my way through,  I realized that Emporium is not your typical Miami store.

Owner Sara Zamikoff created the one-stop-shop almost by accident, as the charming boutique was the result of her journey to opening a coffee and tea shop.  Emporium is the place to go if you're looking for one-of-a-kind goods . Eclectic clothing, handcrafted accessories, unique housewares and even gourmet candy are some of the goodies that await in store. If you're an accessory junkie like me you'll appreciate Zamikoff's selection of local and independent jewelry designs, like exotic jeweled bracelets from LALE. 

With its great finds and affordable prices Emporium sets itself worlds apart from its Miami counterparts— making it the ultimate best kept secret.

If You Go

Emporium
2606 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
786.268.0689

Deal of the Day | TAudrey

There are perks to being a loyal KK reader... Now through June 21st enjoy 20% OFF any purchase at TAudrey.com with the code KellysKloset.

Rings and Things

I adore the personalized TAudrey 'Make Your Mark' ring for $34. Order one with your beau's initial instead of your own for a sweet statement that won't go unnoticed. Single lady? Sport your first and last initials on two fingers for a bold look.

Designer Tiffany Ortiz favors her handmade 'Autograph Plate' necklace. Tell the world who you are with a dainty golden nameplate personally printed by Ortiz. Get it now for under $50 with the limited time KellysKloset discount code.

Closet Confessions | Tiffany Ortiz

Meet Tiffany Ortiz, a twenty-something University of Miami grad and designer of the jewelry line TAudrey. I caught up with Tiffany at Emporium in Coral Gables, a chic little shop off of Ponce Circle that carries her unique and eclectic accessory line. 

Ortiz's story is endearing and empowering. TAudrey started out as just a hobby for the former stylist, who says her friends begged her to sell her homemade designs. A year later, Tiffany is a self-made business owner. TAudrey offers a full line of bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings for women who know the importance of accessorizing . You can shop the collection online at TAudrey.com,  and at boutiques throughout Miami.

Tiffany has the honor of being the first subject of "Closet Confessions." Check out how the emerging jewelry designer responded to our little game of ten questions.

Ten questions for Miami's most influential Stylistas

Name: Tiffany Ortiz

1. Describe your style: Boho chic. Easy, elegant, comfortable.

2. Your go-to outfit: My Emporium tunic or my favorite sun dress.

3. Can't-live-without-it accessory: Too hard to choose! Can't decide between TAudrey charmed wrist wrap or my everyday autograph plate :)

4. Best place to bargain shop: Mina Miami Beach, great prices, awesome clothes!

5. Flip flops or crocs: Flip flops, definitely!

6. Most memorable fashion faux-pas? ---

7. Whose style do you admire most? Audrey Hepburn (of course!)

8. Biggest splurge? My Miu Miu bag- big expense but was well worth it! 

9. Favorite designer? DVF and Tory Burch

10. The secret to great style is... Always feel confident. Don't try to form to the trends if it's not you. Dress for your body type, and always add a touch of sexy.

Sale Alert | Tom Ford Sunglasses

The perfect summer accessory? Sunglasses! How about a pair from Tom Ford- for only $99! These chic designer shades are a favorite of Hollywood's A-list and retail for a pretty penny ($450 & up!) Check out the sale on Swirl.com before it closes on June 10th. 

Not a member of Swirl? Join Now

Pencil This In | Fashion & Film at Regal South Beach Cinema

Sex and the City 2 has finally hit the silver screen! To celebrate the opening of the fashionista flick Regal South Beach Cinema is treating moviegoers to a SATC2 inspired fashion show this Friday, May 28th. 

Joining forces to put on the show are four local Miami boutiques, Coco Babe, The Closet Boutique, Mizmi, and Wafa Saifi, each dressing their favorite character from the film. Paul Mitchell will be on hand to recreate the hair and makeup looks of our favorite city girls.

Arrive early and get a behind the scenes look at what it really takes to put on a fashion show. Ticket holders will have the opportunity to observe the transformation of six models  leading up to their debut on the catwalk.

If You Go:

Friday, May 28, 2010 7 pm

Regal South Beach Cinema (2nd Floor)

1120 Lincoln Road

Miami Beach, Fl. 33139

Try It On | Blaze of Summer

My summer uniform consists of one key piece- my beloved putty colored boyfriend blazer. Worn over jeans, a mini dress, or even shorts, a casual blazer can polish any ensemble. 

When it comes to wardrobe staples like a blazer, don't be afraid to spend a little more for a great tailored fit. This is an investment piece you'll wear time and time again. This season bypass plain old black and go for a cream or khaki color. Neutrals are right on-trend and will look ever so chic paired with light tones like white and blush.

For a look that's straight out of my personal style book, pair your boyfriend blazer with a simple white tank and shorts, and a neutral snakeskin heel. Let your accessories do the talking with a pretty blush bag and oversized lucite necklace.

Best Kept Secret | Dry Shampoo

There’s nothing worse than a bad hair day. They tend to creep up on you mid-week, when you just can’t fit another second into your day and the last thing you want to do is have a “washing-my-hair” night. Washing, drying and styling can be timely and tiring, especially for us long haired girls. Those are the days I thank the beauty gods for one of my best kept secrets—Dry Shampoo!

This magic shampoo-in-a-can needs no water and can liven up even the limpest of locks. Whether your hair is fine and suffers from a daily case of the greasies, you want to extend your salon blow out just one more day, or your bangs constantly fall flat, dry shampoo should be an essential part of your beauty arsenal.

A loyal (obsessive) user of dry shampoo for years now, my personal favorite is Psssst Unscented Instant Spray. At just $5.99, it's so cheap I stock pile it. Industry fave Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo ($11-$21) does a decent job if you're willing to shell out the extra cash; while TRESemme Fresh Start ($4.49) is disappointing to say the least, it acts more like a perfume than a cleanser.

Tip: Pick up a travel sized version to keep in your purse or car for touchups on the go!
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Pencil This In | Win a "Sex and the City 2" girls night out!

The highly anticipated film Sex and the City 2 will be hitting the big screen in just 10 days. (Yes, I am counting!) Thanks to three local Coral Gables businesses you don’t have to be Carrie, Miranda, Samantha or Charlotte to have a Sex and the City adventure of your very own. 

Camelot Salon and Spa, along with Red Koi Thai and Sushi Lounge and Lady Lux Boutique are teaming up to treat four gal pals to a night on the town, including a makeover, stylish new wardrobe, dinner, and tickets to see Sex and the City 2 on opening night at Sunset Place Cinemas. Ladies can enter to win by simply visiting any of the three sponsoring locations. (You must be 21 years old and a South Florida resident to qualify.) 

The winner will be announced at Lady Lux Boutique on Wednesday, May 26th as the Coral Gables shop hosts a ladies’ night party. Guests will be treated to sushi from Red Koi Sushi Lounge, SATC style cocktails, and 15% off their purchases from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. that evening. 

Grand Prize 
A complete makeover from Camelot Salon and Spa including make-up, hair cut, blow dry and style, dinner and drinks at Red Koi Sushi Lounge, and $100 gift certificate to Lady Lux Boutique for a winner and three lucky friends, and tickets to see Sex and the City 2 movie on Thursday, May 27, 2010. 


If You Go: 

Wednesday, May 26th, 5-8pm 
Lady Lux Boutique 
3660 Coral Way Miami, FL 33145 
305.444.0868

What I Wore | Shopping at Lady Lux

Last week, I checked out the Priscilla Jade Little Black Panty Tour at Lady Lux boutique in Coral Gables with my stylish gal pal Annilie. There's nothing better than champagne, shopping & sexy panties! I had been waiting all season to break out one of my favorite dresses, and girls' night out at Lady Lux was finally the perfect occasion.

What I Wore
Dress: AKA New York
Shoes: Jessica Simpson Collection
Bag: Atik Shop
Earrings: Bebe

(Photo credit: Marie Delage)