Last week, Miami could only be described as sultry in every sense of the word from the weather to the fashion. It was a dream setting for 2012's summer fashion: full of sun, sand, and beautiful people. 

Exotic prints inspired by the 70's era.  Animal prints which include textured reptile skins get reinvented. Seascapes and florals matched with reflective solids, shaded tie dyes and primitive art combined with geometrics in a variety of energetic colors make these swim wear collections amazingly mystical.

Thank you Mercedes Benz, Funkshion, and Splashion for a wonderful time of inspiration we will not soon forget.

By Neifa Cosenza, Photos By Eve Hoongrajok

(For More Detailed & Personalized Information & Trend Forecasting Contact Neifa Cosenza Directly At NeifaC@avidink.com)

"Simplicity is the answer for me." - Linda McCartney...

Now that explains the beautiful yet simple photographs at the exhibition Linda McCartney: Life in Photographs. Linda McCartney (1941 - 1998) was an active and admired photographer for over three decades. Her large body of work is known for its celebrated portraits, a wide range of subject matter, spontaneity and a lack of pretension. This exhibition was held at the Bonni Benrubi Gallery in New York, NY. A quiet and small gallery that by just walking through the door one can see its entirety. It was a perfect space to see McCartney's whole life on film: rock and roll portraits, her family, travels, celebrities, animals, and still lives. Her fresh and candid photographs display warmth and feeling for her subjects and are a strong and lasting reminder of her life's journey and her artistic talent. Each photograph had its own story, an individual emotion which translated into a beautiful display. There was a photograph that took the space of a whole wall titled My Love, which was of her husband Paul, it was the definite favorite. Her daughter Stella had to say these words in respect to the exhibition "I've been inspired by it but more so for capturing an emotion rather than a jacket that dad's wearing or a pair of boot from the 60s. It's much more about a way of life and this effortlessness."

Lennon said "life is what happens when you're making plans" this
exhibition exemplifies that and reminds us to take time and enjoy every
moment of our lives.

There are very few times in life in which one is privileged enough to experience something truly emotional and touching. In our latest excursion to the big apple we were among those privileged individuals as we stepped foot into the grounds of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

As we awaited in the impossibly long line to enter, a greater sense of awareness and anticipation arose in us; a feeling that was greater accentuated by the diversity of people, ages, races that were present also waiting to see the work of one of the greatest modern designers. As we entered, no photos or video were allowed, so it was up to our senses to consume the entire experience and not rely on any technological device for help. It was all very dream-like, with dark walls and floors that caused the exhibits to almost jump out at you. The walls were covered with quotes of McQueen and the exhibits seemed to have his presence. It felt like walking through McQueen's mind, as if one could see his thoughts and feel the emotion being conveyed.

Each exhibit seemed to last forever, that is until we were pushed by the sea of people that forced us to keep moving.Each piece was so indescribably innovative and detailed that it made one believe the pieces on display were beyond fashion and clothes. This was truly the work of a genius craftsmen. One defining factor that made this a truly unique experience was that all of McQueen's work was on display not by seasons or what was trending but all of his work joined as one. Seeing the entirety of McQueen's work and allowing it to wash over you, bringing about a new appreciation of McQueen's creativity. The most lasting image came in the form of a hologram of Kate Moss wearing one of McQueen's dresses. It was so melodic, it was a light white vision against the dark, black surrounding area, it was so beautiful-- it was music to our eyes.

By Neifa Cosenza - Creative Director