Miami Fashion Week (MIAFW) unveiled its inaugural Virtual Fashion Awards at the glamorous Queen Miami Beach, transforming the traditional runway into an immersive digital experience where artificial intelligence, artistry, and couture seamlessly converged.

Hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Lisa Petrillo, the exclusive gala welcomed an international gathering of designers, creatives, innovators, and tastemakers for an evening that felt equally rooted in craftsmanship and propelled toward the future. Rather than replacing fashion’s human element, technology elevated it, offering breathtaking virtual worlds that expanded the storytelling possibilities behind every collection.

The event featured AI-powered runway presentations produced by The Fashion Shows, complemented by live model showcases that brought the digital and physical worlds together. The result was an editorial-worthy experience that felt more cinematic than conventional—a fitting evolution for one of fashion’s fastest-growing international platforms.

Among the participating designers were Ana+Maria, Beatriz de la Cámara, Brooke Wilder, ByMerveDundar, Danfive by Daniela Ospina, Fiore, Jacqueline Then, Jhoan Sebastian Grey, Johnathan Hayden, René by RR, Seta Apparel, Shantall Lacayo, Vero Diaz, Yas Gonzalez, and Yenny Bastida. Finalists presented imaginative virtual collections inside immersive digital environments that demonstrated how technology can enhance—not diminish—the artistry of fashion design.

The highest honor, Best Virtual Fashion Show, was awarded to Jhoan Sebastian Grey, earning him a coveted runway presentation during Miami Fashion Week this October, along with editorial exposure, mentorship, retail opportunities through The Fitting Room, and valuable industry introductions. Yas Gonzalez received Best Brand Narrative, while Vero Diaz earned Best Creative Direction, recognizing the growing importance of storytelling in today’s evolving luxury landscape.

Adding another layer of artistry was the debut of the awards’ sculptural statuette, created exclusively by artist Ada Da Silva, symbolizing the fusion of creativity, innovation, and design that defines the platform’s mission.

The celebration also recognized renowned Miami fashion designer René Ruiz for his enduring contributions to the city’s fashion industry, while Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. added a touch of Hollywood glamour to the evening’s guest list.

Innovation extended beyond the runway through Miami Fashion Week’s collaboration with SCIRCLE, introducing AI-powered fragrance creation that translated each designer’s creative vision into bespoke scents, expanding fashion into an entirely new sensory experience.

As the evening concluded with an energetic live performance by Gabriel Coronel, one message became unmistakably clear: fashion’s future isn’t replacing tradition—it’s enhancing it.

With Miami Fashion Week returning October 13–17, 2026, this inaugural Virtual Fashion Awards successfully positioned Miami at the forefront of fashion’s next chapter, where technology amplifies creativity, storytelling becomes immersive, and the runway extends far beyond the catwalk.

On June 3, Miami tastemakers gathered for an elegant evening as Rémy Martin celebrated its This Is My City campaign at the posh Selva Lounge inside Amazónico Miami. The sophisticated affair paid tribute to the city’s rich diversity, creative energy, and entrepreneurial spirit, bringing together an effortlessly stylish crowd of artists, media personalities, fashion insiders, and influencers for one of the season’s most polished gatherings.

Set against the lush, transportive backdrop of Selva, the venue’s dramatic tropical interiors created the perfect setting for an evening that felt equal parts glamorous and intimate. The vibrant lounge buzzed with conversation as guests mingled beneath warm lighting while a soundtrack curated by Miami favorites DJ Bre and Slim City kept the atmosphere lively from start to finish. The energy was unmistakably Miami—refined, cosmopolitan, and effortlessly cool.

The evening honored Wanda Tima, founder of L’Union Media Group and its flagship platform, L’Union Suite, who was recognized as Miami’s This Is My City microgrant recipient. Through her work, Tima continues to elevate Haitian-American voices while reshaping the global narrative surrounding Haiti and its diaspora.

Hosting the celebration was BET’s All The Queen’s Men star Skyh Black, who serves as the Miami mentor for the initiative. The guest list reflected the city’s dynamic creative community, with notable attendees including model Eva Jarit, Miami R&B artist and MTV Siesta Key star Teenear, along with an impressive collection of local influencers, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders.

Of course, no Rémy Martin celebration would be complete without exceptional cocktails. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated selection featuring The Rémy Ginger, The Golden Grove, and The Noir Menta—each expertly crafted to showcase the smooth character and timeless elegance of Rémy Martin V.S.O.P. Every cocktail complemented the evening’s elevated ambiance, making the bar as much a destination as the event itself.

Beyond the impeccable cocktails and sophisticated setting, the evening celebrated purpose. This Is My City, powered by Rémy Martin V.S.O.P, is a mentorship and microgrant program supporting emerging creatives and entrepreneurs across major U.S. cities. Through funding, mentorship, and meaningful recognition, the initiative empowers the next generation of visionaries who are shaping culture within their communities.

Award-winning Argentinian burger concept La Birra Bar has officially opened its newest South Florida location on Miracle Mile, bringing its globally celebrated burgers, signature sauces, and elevated dining experience to the heart of the City Beautiful.

While Miami is certainly no stranger to great burgers, La Birra Bar takes the experience to another level. Known for its perfectly crafted patties, premium ingredients, and bold flavor combinations, the restaurant has built an international reputation among burger enthusiasts and food critics alike.

One of the standout features is the impressive lineup of house-made sauces that transform every burger into a flavor-packed experience. From creamy and savory to spicy and tangy, the sauces are every bit as memorable as the burgers themselves and are a major reason guests keep coming back for more.

The menu is filled with crave-worthy creations, including the viral Dubai Burger, inspired by the flavors and luxury synonymous with its namesake. The Only Fans Burger has quickly become a customer favorite thanks to its over-the-top indulgent ingredients and Instagram-worthy presentation. For those looking for the ultimate burger experience, the Golden Burger delivers a decadent combination of premium toppings and rich flavors worthy of its name.

Beyond the food, La Birra Bar accommodates guests with a sleek, stylish interior that feels more like a trendy neighborhood lounge than a traditional burger joint. Modern design elements, warm lighting, and an energetic atmosphere make it equally appealing for casual lunches, date nights, happy hours, and group dinners.

Adding to the experience is a curated selection of beer and wine, allowing guests to pair their burgers with everything from crisp lagers and craft brews to refreshing wines that complement the restaurant’s bold flavors.

Located in the heart of Miracle Mile, La Birra Bar is a welcomed addition to the long list of Coral Gables’ dining destinations. Whether you’re chasing Miami’s next viral burger, looking for an elevated casual dining experience, or simply craving one of the best burgers in town, this newcomer deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

One bite, a side of those unforgettable sauces, and you’ll understand why La Birra Bar has earned a loyal following around the world.

Two brands known for turning nostalgic treats into next-level indulgences—Salt & Straw and Miami favorite Santo Dulce—are teaming up for a limited-time Pride Month pop-up that promises to be every sweet tooth’s dream come true.

On June 6 and June 13 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Santo Dulce’s iconic retro airstream trailer will roll up outside Salt & Straw’s Wynwood scoop shop, giving guests the chance to pair their famous Churro Halos and ChurroCones with Salt & Straw’s crave-worthy ice cream flavors. Think Chocolate Gooey Brownie, Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, Miami-exclusive Panther Coffee Chocolate Tres Leches, and more.

And yes, I got an early preview of the decadent combo, and let’s just say I left hearing angels. Between Santo Dulce’s warm, freshly made churros and Salt & Straw’s rich, creamy scoops, the Santo Sundae is pure dessert magic. It’s indulgent, nostalgic, and completely worth every delicious bite.

The festivities go beyond the sweets. In celebration of Pride Month, both evenings will feature live DJ sets and a tarot card-inspired “destiny” wheel, where guests can try their luck at scoring bonus churros, extra scoops, toppings, and other sweet surprises.

Whether you’re chasing your next Instagram-worthy treat, looking for a fun Pride Month outing, or simply believe churros and ice cream belong together, this limited-time Wynwood pop-up deserves a spot on your June calendar. Just come hungry—and maybe prepare to hear angels, too.

Salt & Straw x Santo Dulce Pride Month Pop-Up

• When: June 6 & June 13, 2025 | 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Where: Salt & Straw Wynwood, 246 NW 25th St., Miami, FL 33127
• What to Expect: Churro Halos, ChurroCones, specialty ice cream pairings, live DJs, and a chance to win sweet upgrades through the “destiny” wheel.