Shopping & Services

Look, Books & Books may be every Miamian’s favorite bookstore, but no establishment can win this honor every year. And thankfully, they’ve got a competitor this time around. Set in one of the most unlikely locations for a bookshop — Aventura Mall next to Anthropologie — this Miami outpost of an Argentinian independent bookstore chain offers beautiful new volumes in English and Spanish. Quade Books‘ selection features everything you could want from a bookstore, including the latest fiction and nonfiction, design and art books, an extensive children’s section, and helpful and kind bilingual staff. It’s precisely what a splashy mall overstuffed with LV, Prada, and other and other pricey brands needs: a little literacy to balance out the luxury.

The lot on 17th Avenue and SW First Street has long hosted an excellent, affordable car wash. But those patrons would have to take a few steps into the neighboring Yambo’s to eat while workers were shining and vacuuming their cars. Well, they needn’t take those steps any longer, because in 2024 Vintage Auto Spa added a Bistro Café. So as your car gets some rizz, you refuel in the A/C, sip on a cortadito, and munch on a croqueta or eggs Benedict. The quality of car care is still top-notch and the prices are still competitive, with a hand wash and vacuum for sedans going for $30 and SUVs at $45. Vintage Auto Spa is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Meet Alfredo Sanchez, the bike wizard passionate about precision, a skill he probably perfected while living in buttoned-up Germany. And then there’s his son, Alejandro, a finance wiz and FIU grad who’s got the numbers game down and people skills that’ll make you feel like you’ve known him forever. Together, they opened their bike haven in 2016, tucked away in a humble strip mall off E. Eighth Avenue (or NW 42nd Road if you’re using Miami’s map). Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned cyclist, Friendly Cycle has you covered. Flat tire? Done. Bent rim? Straightened. Full bike overhaul? Piece of cake. With a reputation for top-tier repairs, a killer selection of new bikes, and service that’s as smooth as your ride, this place is the real deal. And because they’re deeply entrenched in Miami’s cycling community, you’ll often spot the duo out and about, cruising the Rickenbacker Causeway together. If you see them, flash a thumbs-up: Remember, three feet of space — it’s the law! (Don’t worry, they’ll wave back.)

The Ace Hardware on Alton Road has long been South Beach’s only hardware store, but with their quality customer service and wide array of, er, hardgoods, they certainly don’t act entitled to your business. After many years stationed on the west side of the boulevard, they recently moved across the street to a spacier spot. But even with the larger square footage, it’s still remarkable how many items they cram into their four walls: air conditioning filters, light bulbs of any wattage, auto parts, power tools. You ask one of their employees to locate any item, and they remarkably walk you to it faster than you can find a ketchup bottle in your refrigerator. They’ll gladly copy keys or fobs for you, sharpen blades, and match the paint color you’re trying to identify. It’s a one-stop shop for hardware and a short jaunt to a sandy beach. Not much better than that.

This lone natural oasis of Little Haiti is currently in an existential struggle to survive. Billing itself as the last three acres of green space in the urban core of Miami, Miami Tropical Botanic Garden aims to raise $4 million to prevent a developer from razing the site. The nursery grows all types of local species along with rare tropical fruit trees. According to their website, all sales are “reinvested back into our mission to inspire resilient development and spread ecological education.” Visits to the nursery can be secured only by appointment by emailing thecenter@cstamiami.org. It’s well worth the planning once you march around the shade of the premises, including their freshwater spring-fed pond where you can occasionally glimpse a turtle or migrating bird. They also have hosted cultural events and shows, so you never know if you’ll stumble upon an exceptional experience along with your native plant purchase.

The name changed, but Perak Florist boasts serious provenance: Many were first introduced to owner Jared Tuchinsky in the early aughts when he ran the floral program at the legendary Epicure Market gourmet grocer in South Beach. And you can expect the same high-quality, stunning arrangements from their decade-old delivery service, now based out of Allapattah. Whether you want to surprise your sweetheart or need a quick fix to get out of the doghouse, Perak will do the heavy lifting. Have no idea what to order? The less florally creative among us can take comfort in their “designer’s choice” options, which are sure to elicit an “OMG they’re beautiful!” reaction and maybe even a teardrop. They’re also one of the more affordable options in town. With arrangements beginning at $75, you might be able to send flowers to your entire roster. Pro tip: Their website offers next-day delivery, but same-day may be available if you call and ask (as long as it isn’t a major holiday).

Mass production and mass marketing of wine have despoiled and devalued one of humankind’s most glorious achievements. Fortunately, South Florida is home to a handful of independently owned, thoughtfully outfitted retailers who are on hand to share the fruits of their knowledge. That, in a nutshell, is Vinonueva, where, since 2021, the emphasis is on matching customers with wines they’ll enjoy, regardless of price point. Sure, there’s an entire ultra-climate-controlled space where they pamper the pricey stuff. But if you find us at Vinonueva (and you very well might), we’ll be in the main room, looking for values. And on visit after visit, we’ve walked out with newfound favorites at reasonable prices. It’s reached a point where Bernardo Villanueva, who cofounded the shop with his partner in life, Ana Corina Baptista, knows our budget (mid-$20 range) and our preferences (easy on the ABV; big, juicy flavors). And that’s a great feeling that gets even better when we open a bottle at home with a meal. Vinonueva recently relocated from its original MiMo home to a larger, airier space in the same modest Little Haiti strip mall that’s home to Boia De and Walrus Rodeo. Cheers to that, and to many more wine-filled years.

Opened at the turn of the 21st Century, El Gato Tuerto has always had its one eye wide open for quality beer, wine, and spirits. The Calle Ocho locations are well stocked and serviced by a knowledgeable staff who can point you toward the best tequila, rum, gin or whiskey brands within your price range. They offer more types of beer and vintages of wine than your liver could possibly hope to handle. And if you’ve already pregamed or are overwhelmed with party planning, they deliver. They’re open from 9 a.m. to midnight on Sundays through Thursdays, and till 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

Picture this: you roll up to a drive-thru window — but instead of grabbing a greasy burger and fries or cash from a banker, you’re handed a paper bag filled with containers of dank Indica flower. At some Müv dispensaries, that’s just another day. In 2017, the first Müv dispensary opened its doors in Phoenix, Arizona. The first Florida dispensary opened in Apollo Beach a year later. Fast forward to today, and the fast-growing chain has expanded to more than 60 locations across Florida, including several outposts in South Florida. The company prides itself on high-quality, accessible, and affordable products, selling everything from aromatic flowers to a wide-ranging selection of concentrates and edibles. Its brick-and-mortar stores are staffed with knowledgeable and friendly team members ready to help customers find the perfect products to match their needs. In addition to the aforementioned drive-thru service, Müv offers delivery, so you don’t have to, you know, müv from the couch. (We’ll see ourselves out.)

Fine-line and hyper-realistic tattoos are having a moment, and no one does them better than Panda Tattoo (formerly House of a Thousand Roses) owner Tatu Panda and his apprentices. You may have seen Tatu’s art on Bad Bunny, Jake Paul, and Marc Anthony, but the Ironside ink purveyors serve clients of the non-famous variety too. Tatu(whose business partner is Matt Zingler, co-founder and CEO of Rolling Loud) creates detailed and almost impossibly precise custom tats that will make all your friends ask: “Damn, where’d you get that?”

Mary Jane’s Bakery is a CBD-infused wonderland where flavor meets flower and good times are guaranteed. Specializing in handcrafted edibles and wellness products, Mary Jane’s combines top-tier ingredients with just the right amount of CBD to help customers relax, recharge, and maybe even have a moment with their own reflection. The bakers here don’t just understand cake — they know how to bake in every sense of the word. Each product is made with care and precision to elevate the everyday. Their lineup covers every mood: CBD Canna Gummies for laid-back lounging, CBD Bath and Body products for full-body bliss, and terpenes for flavor lovers. There are also accessories for the stylish, and best sellers for the indecisive. For natural wellness, Mary Jane’s Bakery offers a full spectrum of CBD products, from oils and edibles to topicals, vapes, and even pet products. With more than 100 items to choose from, there’s a perfect solution for everyone. Open 24/7, because who hasn’t needed a little Rave Juice at 3 a.m.?

If you’ve ever seen an exotic dancer in a particularly eye-catching outfit and wondered, “Hmm, I wonder where they bought that,” the answer is probably Playthings Miami. The Westchester shop doesn’t only cater to people in the industry, though. With an impressive variety of toys, lingerie, and customizable festival, fantasy, and dancing gear, they’ve got you covered for pretty much all your kinks and fancies. Need a last-minute set for Ultra Music Festival? Pop on over. Vibrator on its last leg? Playthings Miami can help you update the stash. The staff here is both professional and discreet, so don’t be shy and ask about that one toy that’s always made you blush.

Pets are the new children. Sure, you can buy all your pet accessories online, but you should go out and visit Woof Gang and give your pet the feeling of being a kid in a candy store. Woof Gang offers grooming and all the pet supplies a human companion might require, from collars, clothes, leashes, food, and treats to so many squeaky toys. At Woof Gang, you can Miami-fy your pet’s swag with Miami Heat or Dolphins toys. With 25 locations in South Florida, Whiskers won’t have to spend an hour in the car to get his nails trimmed. Just go online and book a grooming appointment at your nearest spot. The staff are animal lovers and always ready to hand out a free treat for your four-legged friend. Sit. Sit. Good boy!

Given that many a Miamian’s literary diet consists mainly of beach reads, South Florida has never exactly been a hotspot for secondhand bookstores (or firsthand, for that matter). That doesn’t mean there isn’t a hunger for a great read at a reduced price with a lighter carbon footprint. Thankfully, there’s a little cafe in Dania Beach, My Mama’s Books Records & Cafe, with rows upon rows of new and used books and plenty of places to sit, flip pages, and sip on a nice cup of coffee with a sandwich at arm’s reach. Stacks of records and a weekly music schedule with an open mike and karaoke also contribute to this spot’s classic coffeehouse vibe.

In a day and age where it’s hard to find a print newspaper, discovering the existence of Bob’s News & Books is like a leprechaun stumbling upon a pot of gold. They stock not just local papers, but also plenty of out-of-town dailies, along with any magazine you can think of (in many languages!). Open for more than half a half-century, the place remains the spitting image of how you’d imagine a 20th-century counterculture bookstore would look, with sections devoted to cultivating psychedelics and conspiracy theories. There’s even an adult section, which Bob’s website advertises as stocked for “swinger, fetish, bondage, soft-core, hard-core, and sex help.” Open 365 days a year, they offer delivery, even to correctional institutions.

With the Marvel Cinematic Universe seemingly making a comeback this year, it’s time to remind you that your favorite superheroes on the big screen started in the pages of comic books. If you haven’t yet dived into the MCU’s inspiration source, let Korka Comics guide you. With two locations, one near Florida International University’s South Campus and the second in Pembroke Pines, you’ll find a plethora of heroes, whether Marvel, DC, Image, or Dynamite. Korka also stocks a wide range of pop culture collectibles, including Funko Pop figures, Blokees, and Pokémon cards. Musician Stephen Korka is the man behind this South Florida geek empire, and you’ll often find him behind the counter greeting you with a smile and ready to answer any questions.

Book bans may abound, but canonical Black, brown, and LGBTQIA+ stories are going nowhere. In Liberty City, Roots Bookstore and Market is a new sanctuary for “Black storytelling and a refuge for banned books,” according to a GoFundMe that was just a tad bit shy of its $14,000 goal at press time, even as the shop was slated to open on Juneteenth as this issue was being finalized. More than a bookstore (or a worthy cause, for that matter), it’s the legacy of the late activist and cofounder of Roots Collective, Danny Agnew, and a safe space for learning, community-building, and liberation. Roots Collective opened the Black House, its first brick and mortar space, in 2018, which became home to the Village (Free)dge and Pantry to fight food insecurity and Black Men Build, a national organization co-directed by Agnew’s brother Phil. Like many of the Black-owned businesses in Liberty City, they were priced out in 2023 and relocated to the Freedom Lab. A timely opportunity from the Miami Foundation allowed co-founders Isaiah Thomas, James Mungin, and Phil Agnew to purchase this permanent hub for their community-enriching efforts, where Danny’s longtime dream of owning a bookstore is becoming a reality.

In a town where rainbow flags pop up every June (or April, if you live in Miami Beach) and disappear just as quickly, Steer Queer is out here doing the real work for the LGBTQ+ crowd year round. Founded by local organizers Susej “Teal” Perez and Lily Beckmann, this grassroots effort focuses on direct donations — meaning your money goes straight to people who need it for gender-affirming care, rent, groceries, housing stability, and emergency needs. No corporate middlemen, no hoops to jump through, just real aid for real people. Beyond mutual aid, Steer Queer (soon to become a nonprofit as the Queer Party Project) also uplifts the arts scene, giving newbies and underrated performers a place to shine at pop-up shows and parties usually held at the Corner in downtown Miami. If you’re tired of empty slogans and want to support something actually life-changing, get on board here, where the feeling is mutual.

While the element of surprise in thrifting can be thrilling, it can also result in a wasted car ride. Dragonfly Thrift Boutique takes away the stress and still allows you to gasp with pleasure while browsing online. That’s no typo: The shop’s inventory is available for perusal online. Formerly in Little Havana, Dragonfly opened a larger space in South Miami last fall with more room to showcase a curated selection of clothing, accessories, furniture, home decor, designer, and vintage items. And you can feel good about spending your money here — proceeds go to LEAP, the Ladies Empowerment and Action Program, which helps formerly incarcerated women transition into life back on the outside.

OddBalls Nifty Thrift is a one-stop shop for all things quirky and fabulous in South Florida — and as we all know, there’s a lot of quirk to go around these parts. This expansive Oakland Park spot, a stone’s throw north of the city’s downtown, is not just about secondhand treasures; it’s about the thrill of the find. Whether you’re hunting for vintage clothing, retro decor, or rare collectibles, this gem never disappoints. With a vibe that blends nostalgia with boldness, OddBalls thrives on a mazelike yet somehow organized shopping experience that feels like a treasure hunt, wherein every corner offers something wild and unexpected, from vintage Penthouse issues to retro Dolphins garb. With a friendly, laid-back staff and a beer fridge that you can snag and pop a brewski from while you stroll, it’s clear why OddBalls has stuck around for a decade-plus. With that, here’s to many more years and finds.

From floor to ceiling, Stone Age Antiques is a treasure trove of obscure vintage finds from your wildest scavenger dreams. The shop speaks to old Florida and is steeped in history with plenty of nautical-themed items like diving helmets, mermaids, and boat propellers. With each step into Stone Age Antiques, customers travel through time, scouring countless shelves for their niche obsessions or collections. Whether you’re shooting a sci-fi film or decorating a dining room straight out of the Middle Ages, Stone Age Antiques offers low prices and rental options for every kind of customer. If you’re looking to find some last-minute souvenirs before a flight out of Miami International Airport or you’re in the market for one-of-a-kind home decor in the form of a Victorian coffin, Stone Age has you covered many times over.

This Little River furniture store is in high demand, so you can only check out their wares by appointment via its Instagram page. But in that 30-minute appointment, you’re welcome to run your hands over the varied textures of all their curated vintage forms of furniture IRL. Whether looking for a corner bar to entertain your friends, a sofa that looks like it spawned from a different galaxy, or a rug that could elevate a dentist’s waiting room to glamor, Casa de Barcelona has items you could not imagine finding anywhere else. Their Instagram page offers a taste of what they have to offer, but if you crave a deep dive into fine upholstery and furnishings that are not readily available or imaginable, it’s worth your time to make an appointment.

Sometimes the best isn’t exactly what you need, especially in a town where “best” frequently means “most expensive.” There’s rarely anything that feels better than getting a good deal, and you’ll find plenty of those at Mids Market. This creative thrift store concept feels like a more innovative and curated take on Goodwill, with clothing bins and racks categorized by themes such as “Y2K” and “music.” They also sell records, offer store credit for donated threads, and showcase finer brands in an exhibition corner. And if you find a piece that could use a little somethin’-somethin’, their reworking station lets you alter clothing however you see fit.

If you’re looking for a breezy summer vintage get-up, a quirky trinket for your mantel, or just a nice little sweet treat, head to Lot 11 Skatepark, beneath I-95, for the once-a-month Our Market. The flea market brings vendors, music, and skaters together for an old-fashioned bazaar. After you’ve spent a good chunk of your savings, stick around for live jazz and DJ sets with the market often going until 9 p.m., so you can make an evening of it, too! The organizers, Let’s Get Together, have made Our Market more than just another, well, market by looping in community outreach efforts like bringing Miami-Dade Public Library representatives onsite to sign up people for library cards and hosting a bartering area where you can exchange goods to keep your carbon footprint in check.

When nature calls in downtown Miami, skip the sketchy gas station stalls and head straight for the holy grail of clean public restrooms: the second floor of the Stephen P. Clark Government Center. First, you’ll need to score a yellow visitor’s pass from the front desk — not white, not blue, but yellow, baby. Then breeze through security like you’re meeting with the mayor, and boom — a Miami-Dade Sheriff’s deputy personally swipes you into a private elevator. That’s right. You’re a baller now! Upstairs, a security guard might ask for your name and reason for visiting. Don’t be shy. Say it loud and proud: “I’m here to drop a deuce.” (Or you can say “restroom,” but where’s the fun in that?) After your five-star flush, swing by the filtered-water dispenser to hydrate like a champion. And don’t forget to snap a victory selfie outside your County Commissioner’s office — because democracy is messy, but your bathroom doesn’t have to be.

Looking for expert watch repair, a timeless wedding band, or a unique piece of vintage jewelry? You’ll find all that (and then some) at the International Jewelers Exchange in Aventura. Just around the corner from Aventura Mall, the not-so-hidden gem sits at the edge of an old strip mall and houses about 50 vendors selling everything from Rolex watches to Russian diamonds to one-of-a-kind jewelry. Inside, you’ll navigate a maze of booths run by seasoned jewelers and skilled artisans, with a wide range of price points to match any budget. It can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but if you take your time surveying the vendors, you’re bound to find something special. Unlike much of Miami, parking here is plentiful and free. Just be sure to call ahead, as many vendors close up shop for several weeks during the summer for vacation.

If South Beach had a soul, it might just live within the breezy, boho-chic walls of 1 Hotel. This sprawling oceanfront sanctuary is equal parts luxury and laid-back, with driftwood tones, leafy greens, and enough “ahhhhhhh” vibes to make even the most Type A travelers exhale for a day or two. The hotel’s wellness programming is next level — think rooftop yoga with Atlantic views, clean-eating menus, and spa treatments that feel more like thoughtful rituals than rubdowns. On the food front, you’ve got everything from plant-based perfection at Plnthouse Café to globally inspired fare at Michael Solomonov’s Aviv restaurant, all crafted with the freshest ingredients (and yes, serious eye candy for that Insta feed of yours). Whether you’re staying for the pool scene, a spa escape, or just sunset cocktails at its Watr rooftop, 1 Hotel nails the ultimate, effortlessly stylish Miami dream.

Tucked away next to a CVS on Grand Avenue, it’s easy to miss Navi Coffee and Flowers in Coconut Grove. Owned by a florist mother and her son, the shop has gained viral popularity for its mix of warm beverages and leafy offerings. It’s also Miami’s best-kept secret for private events. The space is intimate with a minimalist-chic interior and dreamy floral installations, so you don’t have to do much decorating. Navi is the venue to host bridal showers, brand launches, and, if you’re so moved, your pet’s quinceañera. The artisanal coffees and teas are the most Instagrammable in the city, so make sure to start planning your caffeine-loving bestie’s next birthday at this special spot.

Yes, there is something tackily whimsical about delivering a dolphin snow globe home after a visit to Miami, but we think there’s a better way to approach souvenirs. Local museums typically have gift shops with goods that represent cultural coolness and authentic local culture. Thus, our pick for the best souvenir shop is the PAMM Shop at Pérez Art Museum Miami. Not only do you get the chance to explore the striking Herzog and de Meuron-designed building, but the store sells items that reference the exhibitions, stunning hand-crafted jewelry, a smart library of art books, Miami-related fare, and creative gifts for kids that will brighten their bedrooms and minds. The store was launched with help from artist Michael Balbone in 2012, and it continues to reflect his clever curatorial and retail vision.

It’s incredible, but Base Superstore has been a bastion of cool wares in Miami for 35 years. When it started out on South Beach in the 1990s, it was a hotspot primarily for menswear. Nowadays, its Wynwood flagship is one of the neighborhood’s best draws, whether or not you’re shopping for the best streetwear. Base consistently stocks the kind of under-the-radar and forward-thinking brands that elevate your style above the Gucci and Supreme crowd. In addition to streetwear brands like Gramicci and Carhartt WIP, you might find designer labels like YMC from London or Nanamica from Japan, shoes from Karhu and Veja, Comme des Garçons fragrances, jewelry from Miansai, and periodicals such as 032c and Interview magazine.

For its summer 2025 collection, dubbed “Forever Miami,” OFY draws inspiration from the Magic City without appearing clichéd. Sorry, no Sonny Crockett-core here. Yes, there are some pastels, but they’re muted with fabrics that feel more natural, giving off a sense of quiet elegance. There’s even a touch of femininity, with hand-embroidered designs, bold prints, and crochet details. It’s a move away from the kind of hyper-masculinity Miami is often associated with, without coming off as androgynous — though we could see women rocking plenty of OFY’s pieces as well. While some of OFY’s inventory is created in-house, the store also carries other labels, such as the Swedish resortwear brand OAS and the French swimwear brand Atalaye. Meanwhile, OFY’s clothing is sourced, cut, and sewn right here in the U.S., and the prices reflect that. However, at a time when fast-fashion brands like Shein, H&M, and Zara are sending tons of waste into our landfills, OFY’s commitment to sourcing responsibly and providing high-quality goods certainly makes it worth the price it asks. What, you ask, does OFY stand for? It’s what you say when you lay eyes on the goods: Oh, Fuck Yeah!

While the president’s cabinet and milquetoast conservative influencers are trying to push Mar-a-Lago face on us, we know that that surreal look is beta AF. Come On World, a new Miami-based clothing line, plays with the surreal in the proper way, inspiring its wearers to explore their style freely and with no apologies. The genderless punk clothing rises to the top with subculture-inspired looks that feature reconceived band tees, animal print, plaid, and military green. It recognizes that gender’s not binary and our clothes don’t have to be either. With the hashtag #takemeouttonight — which we’re assuming is a double reference to the Smiths and Franz Ferdinand — you can share your looks online along with Come On World musical partners, like Miami’s Las Nubes and Melenas from Spain. Come On World doesn’t have a brick-and-mortar location in the Magic City, so if you can’t bear to buy online, you’ll have to jet to New York, London, or Madrid.

One visit to the Wardrobe & More and you’ll be running home to throw out most of your own wardrobe and replace it with their merch. Colorful, structured, curated: This Coconut Grove boutique stocks the looks that are guaranteed to level you up sartorially. The “concept store” opened in 2015 in South Miami and moved to its current location during the height of the COVID days, adding “& more” to its name and home products and local artists’ works to its roster. Both neighborhoods reflect the understated luxury, architectural elements, and straight-up sweet lifestyle that the store clothes you for. Its founder is a Miami native who also lived in the Pacific Northwest and California, so coastal cool elements are established and flourishing at the Wardrobe. And much of the store is sourced from female-run brands, so you can look put-together while supporting stylish sisters.

There’s just something head-turning about Montce swimwear. Maybe that’s because it’s genuinely rooted in South Florida’s sexy and playful aesthetic. Alexandra Grief started the company in her Fort Lauderdale apartment in 2009 for friends, eventually expanding to a showroom in 2013. Soon, the demand for her bikinis was high enough that she partnered with her brother to open up a headquarters in Fort Laudy. They’ve since started selling in Delray Beach and Coconut Grove, with plans to expand to West Palm Beach and Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour. Montce’s creative, classic, flattering, and eye-catching suits have been featured in Vogue and worn by celebs like Emily Ratajkowski and Chrissy Teigen. They also sell accessories and clothing to complement the suits for a complete resort or sandy-day look.

When it comes to homegrown lingerie with a beautiful, Italian flair, Cosabella stands in a league of its own. Founded locally in 1983 by Italian immigrants Valeria and Ugo Campello, Cosabella (“beautiful thing” in Italian) was born from the couple’s desire to blend the artistry of Italian lingerie and designs with the bold, sun-soaked energy of their new home in Miami. What started as a humble family-run operation has since grown into an internationally celebrated brand, all while staying rooted in its core values of quality and comfort. It’s rare to find something so sophisticated with its roots firmly planted in South Florida, but one look at these soft, feminine designs makes it clear that the Campello family is bringing the best of Miami to their customers all around the world.

Jessyka Castillo started Fitness and Financial Gains, AKA FF Gains, in 2022 to motivate herself and others to not only get in physical shape but to work on our mental health, too. She’s all about looking and feeling your best. A year later, FF Gains launched an athleisure clothing line. While a bra and leggings set can set you back anywhere between $90 and $125, the quality makes it worth every penny. Castillo personally tries every new item and puts it through a rigorous testing process, including all-day wear, workouts, and a few loads in the washer and dryer. The looks are anything but boring with a range of flattering cuts, colorful options, and summer plans to launch a swimwear collection. If you see something you like, snag it while you can. Castillo only produces a certain number of each item to keep the drops exclusive and control the quality.

There are pretty dresses, and then there are gorgeous, wearable works of art. Miami-resident Carolina Kleinman makes the latter for her line Carolina K. Her designs have textural and visual details that stun and cuts that flatter. This is luxury wear, not for the everyday, unless your everyday is kickin’ it at a White Lotus resort. Kleinman is a globetrotter with former homes in Mexico, Bolivia, and Peru. To preserve and share the cultures of her former abodes, she works with artisans in Latin America to craft clothing, and her Eterna Homewear Collection is handmade in Colombia. Kleinman’s stunning fashions are available online or at her new Design District store and studio.

For more than 60 years, the iconic Dadeland Mall has continued to provide Miami mall rats with fodder for commerce and chatter. With 150-plus stores and restaurants across 1.5 million square feet — and expanding with a brand-new luxury fashion wing — it’s proof that malls are still valued third spaces where culture and community thrive. Located right off the Palmetto Expressway, Dadeland makes shopping convenient for most of South Florida. And while it may not be the fanciest shopping in the 305, it’s the beating heart of Miami malls, and for us, that’s what makes it the best.

Chernaya Bridal House is a wedding-dress shop straight out of a rom-com dream. Situated off Biscayne Boulevard in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood, the sprawling bridal salon features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Biscayne Bay and showcase racks of intricately designed white gowns displayed in stunning wood-and-glass cases. Unlike many other popular bridal shops in Miami that often carry the same designers, Chernaya offers a curated selection from more distinctive — yet equally renowned — names like Naeem Khan, Marchesa, Viktor&Rolf, Birzenwig, Elie Youssef Couture, and Reem Acra. Working alongside the shop’s in-house ateliers, Chernaya’s stylists are never pushy and always focused on their mission to help you find your dream look and ensure it fits like a glove.

They’re called makeup artists for a reason, and Patricia Desamours could have her own solo show at PAMM for the absolute sorcery she can cast on a face. Sometimes we want to look like elevated versions of ourselves, and sometimes we want to break necks while walking into a party. No matter the vibe, Patricia’s Canvas delivers the perfect look. As head MUA for Ultra Music Festival, she’s no stranger to working under pressure. She also knows how to keep makeup fresh for hours of sweating, dancing, and surviving the Miami humidity. With pricing starting at $200, her soft glam option is perfect for weddings, professional soirées, and charity events. As a bonus, the Haitian-Canadian beauty happens to be an absolute delight to hang out with while in her chair.

If Miami had a cool-girl hair uniform, it would be the signature IGK waves. Named after the first initial of the founders’ last names, IGK Salon’s Miami flagship (managed by parent company Luxury Brand Partners) is run by partners and brothers Franck and Leo Izquierdo. The second-generation hair masters brought their talents from Paris, France, to Miami in the early aughts and have steadily grown their upscale salon and product line ever since. They also employ a skilled roster of stylists and colorists who deliver looks that are well worth the cost and wait. Cuts range from $100 to $400, depending on the stylist, and clients can expect to hang out for two to three hours if they’re going for the whole IGK experience (shampoo, cut, blow-dry, and curls). The biggest challenge here might be keeping your head straight for a trim with all the celebrity sightings and gorgeous people sitting in adjacent chairs. Luckily, there are plenty of mirrors for more incognito scoping.

There is no way on God’s green earth that this Pinecrest institution will ever put up a neon sign that says, “Blow me away.” There certainly won’t be an iPad asking you to pick 15, 20, or 25 percent for a tip. But the cash-only beauty of Pete’s Suniland Barber Shop lies in its simplicity, as it has for 60 years. Just as your grandparents might have, you plop down on a leather chair and wait your turn. Your child can rock on the old-school animal spring riders and chew on some Hubba Bubba fresh off the line. The barbers are easy to chat with as they do what they do best — no matter the event, they’ve got you covered. But perhaps the best part of this classic barbershop is the feeling of a barber applying warm shaving cream to your neck and clearing it away with an old-fashioned razor blade. Editor’s note: Sadly, Pete’s closed its doors for good the day after this year’s issue went to press. Consider this tribute a bittersweet send-off.

A chain gym usually doesn’t drum up much hype, but Life Time at the Falls has had tongues flapping since it opened in 2023. Occupying the old Macy’s space, this luxury gym offers amenities usually reserved for resorts and country clubs. The 120,000-square-foot, three-story facility has it all, from spa amenities to indoor pickleball to kids’ club activities. That’s right, you can add your kids to memberships at a discounted price. That means they can go HAM on the outdoor pool area that looks more like a water park with waterslides and a splash pad. So yes, this may be a chain, but a chain that’s thought of everything to keep your bottom perky and your kids occupied.

There is no stress — no deranged news story, no day-with-screaming-children — that cannot be reset by one of the many curated massages at the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. Let the masseuse go to town on your muscles with a deep tissue massage, stimulate your senses with an aromatherapy massage, or loosen your limbs with warm Himalayan salt stones. You can also amp up each experience with an add-on like the Body Strategist Leg Gel to stimulate circulation or a CBD massage upgrade. If that’s not enough to stretch your rock-hard back muscles, the Carillon has every wellness treatment under the blazing sun, as well as specialized retreats, including “Inner Glow: A Menopause and Perimenopause Retreat” for those with dwindling ovaries and erratic hormones.

At Menta y Canela, high-end nails don’t have to come with a price tag that requires you to open a new line of credit. This homegrown Miami chain has exploded with new locations across the city, offering mani-pedi combos at prices starting at a jaw-dropping $19.99. And the quality is anything but basic. Their techs are perfectionists, and every shop’s vibe feels like a mini oasis, whether you’re sneaking in a quick lunchtime refresh or treating yourself to a complete glam outing. Plus, Menta y Canela offers tons of extra services like gel designs, waxing, and even spa treatments, all without making your wallet cry. Accessible, affordable, and seriously stylish, Menta y Canela is proof you don’t have to break the bank to keep your hands (and toes) looking flawless.

This is Miami, where every face and body is expected to be sculpted to the extreme. And to achieve that snatched flesh that makes you feel and look fantastic, we need our MedSpas. The newly opened Hola MD in Doral, led by Dr. Jose “JD” Suarez, is the one that best combines expert medical care and cutting-edge treatments. “Hola” means “hello,” and Hola MD lives up to the name. The staff makes you feel at home while providing personalized in-office services like PDO thread and PRP therapy for hair loss, hormone replacement therapy, and custom IV infusions and telehealth options. Dr. Suarez and his team specialize in precision Botox and filler treatments to enhance — not replace — natural beauty.

If you feel the urge to relax but want a little luxury in your life, head to Hürrem Hammam Wellness & Spa, the country’s largest and first authentic Turkish hammam. This 20,000-square-foot North Miami spa is inspired by the Ottoman Empire’s most famous love story about Sultan Hürrem, who rose from peasantry and slavery to sultan-hood to rule over a golden age of culture with her husband, Sultan Süleyman. Room after gorgeous room harkens back to that ancient time and offers your body a variety of ways to chill the hell out. If you’re not scared of commitment, get a membership, or just check out the Topkapi Restaurant, which serves authentic Turkish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

A perfect shvitz is less than $100 away. The Russian & Turkish Baths is a legendary South Beach haunt that has been sweating its clientele since the ’70s. Though the Baths were closed for renovation for the last five years, they’re officially back and it’s as if nothing changed. The upgrades are mainly behind the scenes, so the spot’s quirky aesthetic remains intact. A day pass is $65, plus a little more if you’re inclined to suck down their authentic Russian borscht or a cool smoothie mid-visit. The food break gives you more time to hop between the wet and dry saunas and take the cold plunge to shock the senses and the flesh. But the Bath’s tour-de-force is the banya, where the stone room and wood oven hit you with an unforgiving heat and your muscles with total relaxation. Repeat the sweating and dousing for as long as you want. You’ll quickly realize there’s no time limit or social strata at these baths: The banya welcomes and soothes all.

If you’re having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day and get whisked to one of the county’s 13 mental health facilities via a Baker Act, the cops have done you a solid by taking you to Citrus Health Network. Near Miami Dade College’s Hialeah campus, Citrus is a burnt-brown building snuggled in a low-rise medical complex. After check-in, you’ll undergo an assessment from a medical doctor who will notify a contact of your status, visiting hours, whether medication is required, and a potential release time. Medical students from FIU’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine often chip in and give the ward an uplifting vibe. The food is surprisingly good, the complex is clean, and the staff is supportive. Pro tip: Upon discharge, request a copy of your records and report any inaccuracies. Last year, 22,524 people in Miami-Dade County were Baker Acted. If you’re having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or go to 988lifeline.org. You are not alone.