Celebrating Smiles

The Smiles Foundation meets again on Tuesday, December 11^th 2012, at the popular urban contemporary restaurant, Wynwood Kitchen & Bar from 6:00pm to 9:00 pm to celebrate A Night for Smiles.  The Smiles Foundation’s fourth annual event in Miami promises to raise funds for various foundations in Colombia and Bolivia. The funds collected on this night will be distributed to local organizations to implement effective projects thanks to the help of Conexion Colombia and Bolivia Smiles Foundation. The night’s promise is to deliver gifts to thousands of children in December and in addition, promote education in these rural sectors. Conscience and glamour, under one roof. 

The Smiles Foundation is a philanthropic group that seeks to give support, offer economic aid and achieve many smiles.  This year, A Night for Smiles will offer its guests a cocktail reception at Wynwood Kitchen and Bar, located at 2550 N.W. 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida. The space will offer a unique experience, surrounded by art and a relaxed atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a vast selection of international wines as Marqués de Riscal and Epica, and toast for this wonderful occasion. The magical portion of the night will be the silent auction which will offer unique items of memorable value.  This year, recognized brands such as Silvia Tcherassi, Avianca and Viceroy Hotel, will be donating items and services.

On this edition, Latin stars as Shakira and others, will join the cause by donating to the long and valued list of auction items.  As an added feature, the event will offer a live mystery show, where guests will share the main ingredient of the night, a warm smile.   The realization of this major project would not have been possible without the valuable collaboration of those people who believed in the unlimited smiles that The Smiles Foundation will bring to thousands of children.  Likewise, its production had the valuable support of important allied companies who joined their services for the night’s success.

HOLIDAY DEALS

You Are Invited to a Very Important Event… MHBF 2012 is Here

Mandrake Public Relations was yet again present for round three at the Miami Hair, Beauty & Fashion which took place at the always elegant Spa at the Viceroy, this past November 8th.  On its 3^rd edition, there was more fashion, more celebrities and more beauty.

Miami Hair, Beauty and Fashion by Rocco Donna

Mandrake had the honor of being in the  middle of everything, handling the Celebrity Suite, where we met many Latin celebrities and were able to chat with them while they got ready for the pink carpet and the fabulous runway.

The behind the scenes was out of this world, as hair and makeup prep was like playing musical chairs while the Spa at the Viceroy filled up with more than 450 people, awaiting the night’s one of kind show.  Known as the event to showcase the latest hairstyles, makeup looks and clothing design, this VIP party was one not to miss, and this year it didn’t fall short to the hype of past years.

Personalities as Marisa Del Portillo, Sonya Smith and Karent Sierra, were a few of the guests invited this year to walk down the runway wearing unique designs from hip urban/chic Ixoye by Rosita Hurtado, full of one of my favorite painters of all times, Frida Khalo.  And designer Miguel Angel MasJuan who couldn’t get any elegant, with his gowns full of colors that exuded style and classic sophistication. How will Rocco Donna surpass this year’s success in 2013? We will have to wait and see…

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Opening In Miami

H&M Finally in South Florida

We know we are not the only ones in South Florida who are ecstatic to learn that H&M will open its fabulous doors in South Florida, and it’s about freaking time!

Its South Beach location will be at the recent remodeled Lincoln Theater, previous home to the New World Symphony, in the middle of Lincoln Road at: 541 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.  This beautiful and historic landmark location will maintain its original art deco silhouette, for the dire pleasure of its patrons where they will not only appreciate the vast affordable fashion items, but also the architectural art of its venue.

H&M Upcoming South Beach Location

Mandrake will be there on its opening splendor showing images of its well known fashion.

Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week: Agua Bendita

During Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Miami, I had the honor and pleasure of working with Trendy Studios for the production of Agua Bendita’s Fashion Show.

The electricity, the good one, was perceived instantly from corner to corner the moment you entered the white tent encapsulating the white runway for Agua Bendita’s 2013 collection. Mandrake was able to work backstage prepping video and camera for the show, and we had a glimpse of what is to come in 2013 from this bohemian chic swimwear brand.  With a delightful meeting, followed by an insight interview with Mariana Hinestroza, one of the two designers behind the creative bikini and accessory line, I had the inside scoop of what inspired this new collection, and a first look at the their fashion show lineup.   

The collection has prominent Native American/Wild West motif with a twist of metals and blinding brights. “We wanted to showcases the effort, work and honor natives have in their work and struggle for existence.” stated Hinestroza. And I might add, it is quite sexy and fun.

It quickly transformed into a navy and military concept, featuring 1940’s style pinups, shiny army insignias, feminine pink anchors and retro military propagandas images.  Genius!  Masculine, but pretty; Retro but modern.

After the prep, hair and make up, the music went blasting and the catwalk was blinded by international flashes capturing images for mayor press entities who were delighted by this Colombian fashion line.

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Eye Catcher – Transformer Bags

I was just perplexed by the stunning bags of Deesigns’.  Dee Ocleppo brings a fun and easy way, for us girls to save money, with luxe handbags that come with multiple interchangeable covers.

The covers – all made from exquisite leather, fun prints and wearable denims, that buttons onto the frames to offer dual options of styled bags.   My favorite is this sizzling Mustique, a metallic version that is fun on one side – with a cameo print – and gunmetal on the reverse. Sexy and fun in just one bag!

Mustique – by Deesigns’ @ $139.90

Many might not know, but this super versatile bag designer is Tommy Hilfiger’s wife and is vamping a storm with her unique bags all over HSN; where you can buy online one of her elegant frames, as well as countless of reversible covers.

My future purchase is the fabulous Monaco, a fine leather tote with a delish mahogany frame, with an office friendly reverse cover.  I can simply use the lighter version for work and after 6pm, with a quick switch, I have a different leather tote for happy hour. What a convenient and fantastic idea.  Check her bags today at HSN.com.

Monaco Tote by Deesigns’ @ $159.90

Me..THE Designer

As much as I love fashion, I am far from being a designer, but thankfully I found this great site where I can try my hopes in expressing my love for fashion and actually creating something wearable.  Shoesofprey.com offers user-friendly options that make it easier for people to custom their flats, heels and even booties.  With prices ranging from $180 – $330 and countless combinations, you will feel like a designer with one of a kind pair of shoes, designed exclusively by you, for you! Enjoy and happy ventures.

Easy to Follow Steps

Showstopper – Let your Brights Shine

Summer is here and its time for the brights to come out! Neon Yellow, Hot Pink, Lime Green, we do not discriminate.    Hues like these are great ways to wake up your outfits and make a notice-me statement. We suggest to go wild find essential accessories in hot colors, or selectively pick one piece of your wardrobe.  My latest goodie are these bright hot pink Hilser flats from Aldo, which I have noticed they compliment every single thing in my closet and always helps me grab the attention of my peers.

Hilser Aldo Shoes – ON SALE online now $34.98!!!

But there are many options to choose from,  the fun is smartly pairing them with regular outfits and surprise with unexpected details.

Xhilaration® Yellow/Green Neon Patent Canvas Clutch – $19.99

Lets go fancy with this patent leather loafers by Matt Bernson – $169

Kimono-Me

We are not talking about the exaggerated Geisha-like fashion, but actually one in small dosages.  I recently bumped into kimono styled tops that have been re-introduced in several retail stores. 

Kimono All Styles

Found this inexpensive option at Forever 21 for $13.99.

The trick of choosing the right top is selecting lightly loose kimonos that have delicate floral prints, in vibrant colors and have a silky feel.  Now, in order to balance out this loose fit, is to wear them together with skinny jeans in classic blue or neutral colors.  Let them shine and be the center of attention.  In addition, and very important, do not, even if you think is necessary, add any other Asian-inspired accessories.  We wouldn’t want you to go overboard.  The goal is to look sleek and natural while trying this trend.

Kimono-Me

We are not talking about the exaggerated Geisha-like fashion, but actually one in small dosages.  I recently bumped into kimono styled tops that have been re-introduced in several retail stores. 

Kimono All Styles

Found this inexpensive option at Forever 21 for $13.99.

The trick of choosing the right top is selecting lightly loose kimonos that have delicate floral prints, in vibrant colors and have a silky feel.  Now, in order to balance out this loose fit, is to wear them together with skinny jeans in classic blue or neutral colors.  Let them shine and be the center of attention.  In addition, and very important, do not, even if you think is necessary, add any other Asian-inspired accessories.  We wouldn’t want you to go overboard.  The goal is to look sleek and natural while trying this trend.