Surely, a white winter is in full effect somewhere. Over in Miami, however, ’tis the season for Art Basel—the weeklong event merging the art world with the fashion and entertainment industry’s who’s who (think of it as fashion week for art, with a side of fashion, even still). And, like fashion week, it s a week that s as much about seeing art as it is being seen. Alongside touring the galleries at the Miami Beach Convention Center or the Scope Art Show hosted for the 9th time at on the sands near the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, there was a bevy of daytime gatherings, evening cocktails, and late-night after-parties—making an appearance at as many possible amid the city’s high traffic remains an impressive, but necessary feat.
The list of names who flew into town just for the event this year is wide-spanning — Leonardo DiCaprio, Gigi Hadid, Odell Beckham Jr., Gabrielle Union, Dwayne Wade, Camilla Cabello, Big Sean, Janelle Monae, Ice Spice, Venus Williams, J Balvin, just to name a few. From the Design District to Ocean Drive, happenings sprawled everywhere, from an immersive Cartier exhibit to a Gucci holiday bash, parties in the sand, and an all-night dance along with GQ and Velocity Black. Naturally, everyone looks good hitting them all. Ahead, here’s a look inside among the most exclusive stops of the week.
Friday
With GQ and Velocity Black, Dancing Is Not Lost
Anyone who’s attended a Will Welch-hosted GQ party will tell you — there will be dancing. Bringing a bit of the NYC-based publication’s flair to Miami Art Basel, the entity joined forces with Capital One’s Velocity Black alongside The Cultivist to create DAR MIAMI 1446, a tea shop, gallery salon, and lounge-hybrid installation created with international artist Hassan Hajjaj. Channeling The Souk of Marrakech and Moroccan influences, its many rooms connected like winding alleys by archways and artful wall cutouts, the location was one that encouraged exploration, each room doused in rich color and various mosaic-esque prints. Kitty Cash DJ’d as early partygoers settled in, with Welch later welcoming Anderson .Paak (or DJ Pee .Wee) to cue his signature, disco-esque curation of tunes. The crowd of guests included the likes of Big Sean, Kaytranada, Joey Bada$$, Devin Booker, Kollin Carter, Hannah Bronfman, Kilo Kish, Rubi Rose, Chris Appleton, Hannah Bronfman, and more, making for an attendee list stealthily packed with recognizable industry faces. They crowded the dance floor when .Paak took the stage, and before long, a dance party was in full effect, one that included .Paak’s shared hits with Bruno Mars, Studio 54-esque throwbacks such as Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love,” and classic sing-a-longs to Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten.” All throughout, trumpeter Maurice Brown added a unique twist to familiar tracks. It was one of those parties still kicking well over an hour past its end time, and anyone who was looking for a real fashion get-down would likely say, “Mission accomplished.”
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Thursday
Gigi Hadid Attended a Miu Miu Shopping Affair
It’s a wonder Gigi Hadid was able to slip into Miu Miu’s store on Thursday night. Sat amid of row luxury boutiques that commands quite the crowd on the average day, the Design District was, on this particular night especially abuzz with a number of happenings commencing nearby. But little would stop the model from celebrating her Miu Miu Select edit—a personalized collection of the star’s favorite piece—with a cocktail. As far as in-boutique festivities go, the event was a lively one, each of the store’s two stories filled wall to wall. Everywhere one looked, there was an attendee in one of Miu Miu’s internet-loved hero pieces—the tutu skirt, polo shorts, their mega-trend Beau bag. Hadid herself opted for a distressed miniskirt, and an easy white tank with a pinstriped blazer draped over top. Meanwhile, her Select edit was chock full of brown toned bags from the house, such as its patchwork bags, and a pair of kitten-heeled patent leather pumps, the finishing touch to her own look for the evening. The surprise for those shopping the limited collection during the event? A signed patch from Hadid which would then be hand sewn onto the piece. Alongside Hadid were more familiar faces fans swooned over, such as Camilla Cabello and Gabrielle Union. If attendees weren’t eyeing the pair or Hadid as she shopped about, they were in the middle of the boutique’s first floor enjoying a set from DJ Chloé Caillat, snapping flicks on the mirrored stairway, or mingling in a red-lit room upstairs until the scene died down.
Sean Penn’s CORE Gala Raised $1 Million and Concluded With A Party On The Beach
Back from a one-year hiatus, Sean Penn’s CORE Gala returned, yet again, to the private and scenic location of the Soho Beach House tent for a dinner with the goal of raising funds for emergency relief, and honoring the organization’s litigation counsel, Matthew Rosengart. Hosted by the esteemed film director and producer alongside CORE’s co-founder, Ann Lee, the event is one that typically ushers in a hefty roster of stars with an affinity for philanthropic work — this time, the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Garcelle Beauvais, Carmelo Anthony, and Alessandra Ambrosio. Opening remarks came from Diplo, who went on to mingle about the room afterward, acknowledging a number of friends before landing at DiCaprio’s table. Then ensued an auction that ultimately resulted in over $1 million raised during the event. DiCaprio and Anthony went head to head on bids for an Astro art piece, the first item up for grabs. Then came a painting of Queen Elizabeth, ultimately going to its winner for $100,000, and Fifa game tickets, which landed at $20,000. The program closed out with a performance from ’90s music icon Jewel; the crowd hushed as she impressively kicked off acapella before adding in only a guitar later, rounding off a sonically moving set with audience and fan-favorite “Who Will Save Your Soul.” That, however, didn’t mark the end of the night. The party later moved into a cocktail hour that saw attendees transition from inside the tent, to a lounge set up right on the sand of the nearby beach, maybe one of the most Miami-esque endings to any party of the week yet.
Margiela Picked Just The Right Occasion to Release an Artful Collection
During ABMB, Margiela put the art in tattoo art. Last night, the maison feted its collaboration with Brooklyn-favorite tattoo artist Kozo in the company of friends such as Sami Miro, Aleali May, and more. Guests were clad in their Margiela best—knee-high Tabby’s, velvet-collared blazer capes, and many clutching metallic handbags from the brand. The collection transfers Kozo s tattoos from skin to sneakers, leather boots, sunglasses, and bags, focusing on a grey-scale design. The party spot, the brand’s Design District store, marks the only location where artful pieces can be found. For the evening, even the walls of the boutique had been decked out with Kozo’s work, lending an elevated cool-kid aesthetic perfectly aligned with the night s carefully handpicked attendees.—J.S.
A Toast to WOAH—Isolde Brielmaier and Michi Jigarjian’s New Global Art and Culture Firm
Kicking off with toasts of bubbly, rum-based cocktails served in swanky martini glasses, paired with perfectly dimmed lighting, great conversations, and a DJ spinning old-school vinyl tracks, enter Artist’s Table—a series presented by WOAH (Work of Art Holdings) and Edition Hotels. Together, they offer immersive experiences in intimate settings across the hospitality brand’s iconic properties.
Brielmaier, chief strategy officer, WOAH, shared, “We are committed to an approach that’s hyper-local, intentional, and purpose-driven, and this collaboration with Edition Hotels will help deepen appreciation and support for talented artists and chefs worldwide." Meanwhile, Michi Jigarjian, the CEO and founder, explains, “Through our work at WOAH, we aim to take art beyond galleries, facilitating connections between artists, a range of sectors, and diverse communities to build cultural ecosystems that have commercial success.”
Celebrating culinary and contemporary art collaborations with an emphasis on diverse cultures, Jigarjian and Brielmaier were joined by their colleagues and friends for an intimate dinner prepared by Miami-born Eileen Andrade, the visionary chef-owner of Finka Table Tap and Amelia’s 1931.
From Cuban artist José Parlá to Derrick Adams and his husband, Michael Chuapoco (also an extraordinary painter), Kennedy Yanko, Teresita Fernández, Hannah Traore, Stacie Henderson, Frank Roberts, and Maile Gamez, guests enjoyed Chef Andrade’s curated menu, which included crispy mofongo, shrimp ceviche, braised lamb shank, and more. Each attendee also received a special edition print by Parlá, commissioned by WOAH, with all proceeds benefiting YoungArts.
Wednesday
The Webster Welcomed The Attico’s “From Pool to Casino” Collection With a Bopping Dinner
The sign of a great dinner party is when you can’t find a single cell phone in sight. Such was the case at The Webster’s celebratory dinner in honor of their bright bandana-print and rhinestone-clad capsule with the Attico. Hosted at Forte Dei Marmi’s private second-floor suite referred to as Sopra, the night’s atmosphere could be best described as a Hotel Costes sultry paired with a comforting warmth, thanks to the red-hued, dimmed lights that set the romantic tone for the soiree.
Commencing with an hour-and-a-half long cocktail loaded martinis and delectable wines, the dinner table in the end was lined with the likes of Athena Calderone, Desiree, Pia Mance, Emily Marant, Kristen Noel Crawley, Liz Cambage, Alana Champion, Cass Dimicco and Brenda Weischer. At the far end of the room, Laure conversed with Sarah Andelman of the late Colette Paris while The Attico founders Gilda Ambrosio and Giorgia Tordini caught up with supermodel Erin Wasson, Kitty Cash, and Elizabeth Sulcer. In proper fashion, all departed with stellar memories, new friendships, a pair of The Attico sunglasses, and a namesake candle from the multi-brand store.—E.M.N.
Artist Derrick Adams and Google Shopping Partied at The Edition for a Star-Studded Soiree
Known for its divine functions during Art Basel, The Edition was the party to be at. Just ask En Vogue and Tierra Whack, who performed for the beloved creative, his friends, and fans alike.
Not your average Wednesday night in the momentous city, art-world luminaries, friends, and fans—including Diplo, Malik Yoba, Adot Gak, the legendary Mickalene Thomas, Nicolle Fuller, Dustin Yellin, Kennedy Yanko, Tschabalala Self, Sandrine Charles, Quiana Parks, Antwaun Sargeant, Nour Rizk, Arnaud Frisch, and Jen Roberts, the CEO of Design Miami—couldn’t get enough of Google Shopping’s partnership with the artist. The collaboration featured an exclusive capsule collection, including a tote and T-shirt adorned with his iconic imagery, available through Google Shopping and Limited Edition within The Miami Beach Edition.
"We
re thrilled to partner with Derrick Adams at Miami Art Basel to give people a unique way to engage with his work through an exclusive capsule collection available through Google Shopping," said Stephanie Horton, Senior Director of Global Consumer Marketing for Commerce at Google.
Guests sipped cocktails featuring Belvedere Vodka alongside Whispering Angel wine, enjoyed invigorating performances, and fully embraced the creative atmosphere of Art Week Miami Beach.
Golden Goose and Valfré Celebrate Co-Creation in The Heart of The Design District
On Wednesday evening, luxury sneaker lovers and fans of Golden Goose gathered to meet Valfré, the Mexican contemporary artist as she unveiled the exclusive Super-Star sneakers designed by Valfré herself. “Just one month ago, they came to me,” she explained, “and together we merged to make it a reality, and they gave me the creative freedom to make their most beloved sneaker my canvas.”
Each hand-made sneaker features personalized tongue tags that read ‘Valfre,’ and each shoe is further decorated by her staple drawings as pins, while the lace tags showcase her distinctive work. The fete was a reflection of the brand’s DNA and highlighted Golden Goose’s dedication to craftsmanship and connecting with the community. Co-host Karolina Kurkova s friends, including Devon Windsor, Denisa Palasha, Zarina Yeva, and Afiya Bennett, popped over while Camila Coelho, Twan Kaypur, Cindy Prado, Fernanda Giménez, Skyelar Chase, NFL Players Duke Riley and Tarik Black mingled, shopped and supped throughout the night.—E.M.N.
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Fendi Opened Its New Design District Boutique With A Bang
Back in the Design District, Fendi gathered a collective of buzzy celebs and influencers to commemorate the opening of its new space. Giddy partygoers, many dressed in chic, cool tones, mingled about the two-floor space, taking in the boutique’s ancient Roman-inspired architecture—touches of glass bricks and grandiose archways. With tunes courtesy of DJ Isabella Massanet and satiated appetites courtesy of an offering of Italian bites, the mood had been perfectly set. In attendance were fan favorites such as Alix Earle, who matched outfits with her beau, Braxton Berrios, and Storm Reid, who brought her mother along for the party, while the likes of Ella Hunt and Ella Rubin spent the evening catching up with Jonothan and Silvia Fendi.—J.S.
Tuesday
Gucci Celebrated the Holiday Season Under The Stars With The Dance Party of Dreams
Miami’s Design District being the place to be seen on Tuesday night, a Gucci party brought out a packed crowd just around the corner from Cartier, summoning a select guest list that naturally included aficionados of all-things chic. Welcoming Art Week while celebrating the holiday installation that pays homage to Gucci’s rich history, the party was strategically hosted at the Sweet Bird North Plaza between the brand’s two boutiques, where the collaborative murals between American Artist Corydon Cowansage and the heritage brand could be seen. As per Gucci’s annual Art Week fete extraordinaire, they did not disappoint. While Deputy CEO of Gucci, Stefano Cantino, mingled with guests who included the visionary Craig Robins and Jackie Soffer, the invitees included supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio, Athena Calderone, Brendan Fallis, Brittany Byrd, Cait Bailey, Carlita, Caro Daur, Cass Dimicco, Cathy Vedovi, Dustin Yellin, Eiza Gonzalez, Kering Deputy CEO Francesca Bellettini, Francesca Kaufmann, François Sarközy, Gavin Brown and Hope Atherton, Georges Coupet, Hannah Traore, Hassan Pierre, Jeffrey Deitch, Jon George of Rüfüs Du Sol, Jon Gray, Kennedy Yanko, Kitty Ca$h, Kristen Noel Crawley, Martha Graeff, Marjorie and Josh Harris, Mickalene Thomas, Paola Alberdi, Venus Williams and Yara Shahidi.–E.M.N
At Cartier, A Chic Exhibit and a Janelle Monae DJ Set
Cartier’s cause for celebration was the 100th anniversary of its Trinity collection, with Miami serving as the grand finale to its number of stops across the world toasting the iconic triple-banded design. Having taken over a large space just in the middle of the Design District with a vast red carpet leading to a building plastered in Cartier’s iconic red, the whereabouts of the brand’s Tuesday night bash were hardly missable. Equal parts fashion and art, you couldn’t reach the buzzing cocktail party on the second floor (and wouldn’t have wanted to) without first traveling through an immersive exhibit dedicated to the house’s history. In the first room, a massive installment of screens made to resemble a gold, white gold and rose gold band welcomed guests with a run-through of the Trinity collection’s storied history. In the next, a dimly lit space held a pool of dark, rippling water, the room encased by backlit shelves showcasing a timeline of Cartier’s most beloved pieces, dating back to 1924 — its sterling silver wine glass, its iconic, collectible ink pens, through to the latest renditions of the Trinity designs, aptly released this year. Journey through two more immersive spaces and guests were then met with a sprawling staircase leading to a lofty space where Janelle Monae DJ’d, pink tequila cocktails were served, and even more installments were set (for example, a life-sized film roll covered with the faces of past campaign stars sat in the room’s center), complete with a mirrored selfie room, and a jewelry try-on counter. Spotted among the crowd were the likes of Nicholas Alexander Chavez, Kevin and Kate Love, Jaime Jacquez Jr, and more enjoying Monae’s dancey mix, which carried on until an intimate group of friends of the brand slid just a few steps over to a swanky restaurant lounge for a nightcap. —J.S.
A Very Pucci Fair
Over at Pucci was a fun affair—or, most literally, an actual fair. As one of the official Miami Art Basel sponsors this year, the brand ditched the Design District and instead set up camp amid a vast outdoor area, which converted into a fashion carnival of sorts for the evening. In quintessential Pucci fashion, the brand’s name in giant, hot pink LED lights greeted partygoers at the entrance, and once inside, there were a number of things to do and try. In one corner, a fortune teller (a hot commodity, as there was a wait list), just near that, face-in-the-hole cutout boards offered a photo-op moment that allowed anyone to be a model wearing Pucci, and for the foodies (or just anyone hopping from party to party with virtually no stops in between), a gelato station, a cotton candy corner, and, another popular attraction, a pasta bar. A colorful, lit-string canopy sat above the crowd to cement the feel of a traditional fair, while a sized bar sat in the middle of the party, just next to a dance floor illuminated by fuschia lighting. —J.S.
Monday
Xerjoff Welcomed 100 Life-Size Elephant Sculptures (and Gloria Estefan!) to South Beach
To kick off the festivities, three public artworks curated by Dodie Kazanjian and Ximena Caminos were fêted, including Art&Newport’s Daniel Buren sailboat regatta, Miami’s forthcoming ReefLine, and The Great Elephant Migration. Guests arrived in statement sunglasses and colored suiting to view a herd of 100 life-sized elephant sculptures gracefully marching down the sandy shores of South Beach, sponsored by niche perfumery Xerjoff. Masterfully crafted from lantana reeds by artisans of the Coexistence Collective, these epic elephants are already one of Art Week’s most talked about activations, promoting the fragile relationship between nature and humans. The cocktail party in the sand was set against Miami Beach’s crashing waves, Art Deco lifeguard towers, and scents of damask rose from Xerjoff’s CoExistence perfume created for The Great Elephant Migration. Following cocktails at the beach, guests made their way to dinner at the beguiling Casa Faena, where flora and fauna-inspired décor was maximalist and roseate. Party guests included superstar Gloria Estefan, Sergio Momo, and Ruth Ganesh. “There is a depth to these elephants, and they do have a place among all of this incredible art. It’s emotionally moving people,” Ganesh told Vogue. -Zachary Schwartz
