Issue link: https://www.balharbourdigital.com/i/1078587
54 BAL HARBOUR PARADISE FOUND Brazilian-born shoe designer ALEXANDRE BIRMAN has always had a love affair with Miami's captivating energy. Since stepping onto the scene with his Bal Harbour opening, Birman's sleek stilettos and colorful chunky-heeled sandals are just in time for Spring. Simone Sutnick gets an interview. What drew you to Bal Harbour Shops for the new location? The Alexandre Birman brand has seen an increase in popularity in the South Florida area, which led ÕÃÌ`iÛi«}ÕÀiÜiÃÌy>}ëiÀi°/iVÕÌÕÀi>`ÛLÀ>VÞvÌiÜi effortlessly resonates with the brand. Can you describe the spirit of the brand? We pride ourselves on carrying >ëÀÌÌ>ÌÌÀ>ÃÌÃVw`iVi>`viÌÞ°7iÜ>ÌÕÀViÌÃÌLi empowered while wearing our creations. *QYFQGU/KCOKTGƃGEVVJCV! Miami is contagiously bold, yet sophisticated. There is an energy that surrounds people in the city and we want that same magnetic effect when wearing Alexandre Birman. What is your connection with the city? Being from Brazil I connect with the beach so the Miami area reminds me a lot of home. The people and the attitude feel comforting and familiar. What excites you most about Spring footwear? ÌiÜ>ÀiÀÃi>ÃÃw`Ì>Ì people are more daring when they dress, which leaves room for more creativity and more fashion-forward pieces. As a brand we emphasize this with our Spring and Summer collections by using more color and artisanal pieces. *QYFQ[QWƂPFKPURKTCVKQPHQT[QWTFGUKIPU! Inspiration is all around us. I always try to keep an open eye and mind. A lot of what is created is based on experience and special moments, like travel and family. In what ways do you see Alexandre Birman evolving in the future? The brand continues to gain an exciting momentum in the American market. We have accomplished quite a bit in just 10 years and I hope we continue to further our position as a luxury shoe brand in the upcoming years. Wunderkind Daniel Lee hits the ground running for his creative directorial debut at BOTTEGA VENETA. With a nod to the >Li½ÃÃÌÀÞ]iiÃiÝ«>`}Ìi`iwÌ of Bottega Veneta's comfort zone, literally blowing up the classic woven leather bags to larger proportions—exaggerating the weaving and the size of the bags themselves. Bold shapes, sizes and textures—what better way is there to make a statement? HEAVY HITTER COURTESY OF ALEXANDRE BIRMAN; BOTTEGA VENETA