Plant your flag in one of these festive Miami neighborhoods and celebrate America’s 238th birthday with the classic summertime trifecta: fireworks, cocktails, and ‘cue.

Downtown Miami/Brickell

The ultra-decedent Elvis French Toast at OTC. 

OTC in Brickell is kicking off Independence Day by offering its cult brunch from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. on Friday, made even more craveable with a new addition to Chef Jacob Anaya’s menu: the Elvis French Toast with Nutella, peanut butter, bacon, banana, and candied nuts. Wash it down with bottomless mimosas or—just for the Fourth—bottomless craft beer. Catch the World Cup quarterfinals, too; OTC will show the games at noon and 4 p.m. 1250 South Miami Ave., Miami, 305-374-4612

If you want to catch a fireworks show while dodging the crowds and traffic, seek refuge at Intercontinental Miami’s sparkling rooftop pool, which will be open to the public on the Fourth. From 34 stories above, you’ll have a panoramic view of the fireworks exploding over Biscayne Bay as part of America’s Birthday Bash—one of the city’s largest celebrations taking place in Bayfront Park. 100 Chopin Plaza. 305-577-1000

Coral Gables

A half-rack of ribs at Swine Southern Table & Bar. 

Have a hankering for classic ‘cue? Swine Southern Table & Bar, Coral Gables’ go-to spot for Southern comfort, will be serving up a half-rack of ribs with their signature competition rub, cider vinegar mop, and housemade pickles. The pork-centric spot also offers its fair share of backyard refreshments, like an ultra-refreshing Summer of Deuce cocktail, crafted with Pimm’s Cup No. 1, Kappa Pisco, lemon, and Dr. Brown’s Cel-Ray soda. 2415 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, 786-360-6433

Meanwhile, The Biltmore will bring on star-spangled pomp as it hosts its annual fête on its sprawling golf course. Expect activities throughout the day, including concessions and patriotic mascots, capped off with a fireworks show and a live performance by the Greater Miami Symphonic Band. Before the bombs bursting in air, though, squeeze in a seasonal pedicure at the Biltmore Spa. Inspired by the summer months, the pedicure includes a softening foot soak, exfoliation and foot massage—patriotic nail art optional. 1200 Anastasia Ave. Grounds open at 5 p.m., live concert at 7 p.m., and fireworks show at 9 p.m.

Design District

St. Louis-style ribs at The Federal, Food, Drink & Provisions. 

Oak Tavern is serving up shareable modern American fare (think wood-oven duck pizza with fontina and truffle, charcuterie plates, and bison carpaccio), along with a bar menu divided into Tavern Cocktails and The Classics. Grab your friends and a communal wood-hewn table for a round of classic Champagne cocktails, Magic City Pale Ale from the nearby Wynwood Brewery, or a crisp rosé. 35 N.E. 40th St., Miami, 786-391-1818

Keep the party going at The Federal, Food, Drink & Provisions. The MiMo-district restaurant is hosting a nostalgic ‘Que ‘N’ Cups party (similar to the tavern’s Solo Cup Sundays) on Friday from 6 p.m. to close. From the self-serve bar, grab a solo cup of the handmade punch of your choice, like red, white and, blueberry sangria with white wine, white cranberry juice, blueberries, strawberries, and apples. The Pit will be serving barbecue all night, with eats like Southwest mac and cheese and St. Louis-style pork ribs. 5132 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-758-9559

PHOTOGRAPHY VIA FACEBOOK.COM/OTCRESTAURANT; RUNPIGRUN.COM; FACEBOOK.COM/THEFEDERALMIA

In juice-crazed South Florida, On Juice is setting its sights on keeping Miami healthy.

On Juice has 11 flavors, including Unbeetable, Piña-Kale-Lotta, Lemon-Aid, and Mint Condition.

“I can’t remember the last time I got sick,” says Olga Kuzenkov, founder and “juiceologist” at Boca Raton–based On Juice. “Our bodies require vitamins and nutrients to function at their optimal level. Just like your car, if you want it to last a long time, you put the best fuel in it. Unfortunately, most people don’t.”

In a town so focused on outer beauty, it’s ironic that one of the biggest pushes in Miami now is for internal health. All the high-protein food we eat is significantly more acid-forming, with negative consequences for our health. Juices provide a way to eliminate the buildup of toxins that a diet heavy in meat can promote.

This summer, the company has rolled out its Belly Breakthrough Cleanse—four juices for one day (a five-day supply costs $250)—designed to flush toxins, clean the kidneys, and repair digestion using mostly organic lemon, kale, pineapple, spinach, carrots, and various other roots, which are processed in a cold-press juicer. “Cold-pressed juice offers a higher level of digestive enzymes,” says Kuzenkov. “The way most other juices are made warms up the cells of the fibers, and you actually lose a lot of benefits and digestive enzymes. Cold press preserves those ingredients.”

Kuzenkov, who moved here from Ukraine 18 years ago, says Florida is an inspiration for her juiced-up life. “Here, we are almost naked 80 percent of the year, so people pay a lot of attention to the way they look,” she says. Hence, the demand for On Juice is greater than ever. This summer, the company is opening its first storefront location in Aventura Mall, conveniently right next to Lululemon. Yes, it’s a total departure from typical “mall food,” but in South Florida, it’s a perfect fit.

Find out which U.S. soccer players relaxed in Miami after the World Cup. This and more sightings in this week's celebrity news.

U.S. soccer players DaMarcus Beasley and Jozy Altidore

U.S. Soccer Stars Swing by Prime 112

Before hosting the Fourth of July party at Delano Beach Club, U.S. national soccer team players Jozy Altidore, DaMarcus Beasley, and Fabian Johnson—who played in the FIFA 2014 World Cup Brazil—were spotted having dinner Thursday night at Myles Chefetz's Prime 112.

Stand-up comedian and actor Damon Wayans also hit the restaurant for dinner on Sunday.

On June 28, other familiar faces stopped in for dinner, including New York Knicks power forward Amar'e Stoudemire, Chicago Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall, University of Louisville head coach Rick Pitino, and rapper Rick Ross. 

‘Game of Thrones’ Actor Hangs at Lucky Strike

Jason Momoa, who played Khal Drogo on Game of Thrones, was spotted at Lucky Strike Miami on Saturday evening while in town for Supercon. Momoa drank Sam Adams and watched the UFC 175 fight with a group of guys, posing for photos when fans approached.

Manu Bennett and Shemar Moore Stop by Bâoli 

Actor Shemar Moore swung by Bâoli Miami last week for the weekly Wednesday-night party. Shemar and his entourage dined on tuna tartar, wagyu carpaccio, lobster, and a godzilla roll. As the evening continued, he took photos with fans and sipped vodka-cranberries and Avión Reserva 44 tequila.

Spartacus star Manu Bennett was also seen at Bâoli having a quick bite, sampling the Bâoli tuna tartar, spicy tuna, and sea bass.

Geno Smith, Kevin Hart, and Jarret Stoll Party at E11even

Los Angeles Kings center (and sports reporter Erin Andrews' boyfriend) Jarret Stoll kicked off Fourth of July weekend Friday night at E11even Miami with a group of friends, ordering bottles and shots until 6 a.m.

New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith and a friend were seen at the club on Monday, June 30, going incognito in baseball caps at a VIP table.

Comedian Kevin Hart was also at the club that night and returned again a few nights later, partying into the morning. Hart was seen making jokes with the waitresses in the VIP area.

Morimoto Orders Everything on the Menu at Zuma

Chef Masaharu Morimoto, whose restaurant will soon be opening at the Shelborne, was spotted at Zuma on Monday, June 30 sampling the entire menu and snapping photos.

Actor Dan Castellaneta, who is the voice of Homer Simpson, was spotted at Zuma on Saturday, June 28, having a quick meal with his wife.

Over the weekend, New England Patriots linebacker Brandon Spikes spent July 4 with a friend on Zuma's riverfront terrace, sampling the Japanese restaurant's latest dishes and washing them down with the new Green Goblin cocktail of Avión tequila, kiwi, aloe, and absinthe. 

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KEVIN C. COX/GETTY

This month, opt to enjoy a full dining experience at one of Miami's newest restaurants—plus, a new spot for the lunch crowd. 

Porfirio's

Porfirio's Arrives in SoFi

Mexico City-based Porfirio's opened the doors to its first U.S. location last week, offering SoFi dwellers more than 100 varieties of tequila and mezcal. With the help of the restaurant's Mezcal Concierges, pair the spirit with Porfirio's upscale Mexican cuisine. Our favorites on the menu include costilla de res horneada—beef rib cooked for eight hours—and pescado al pastor, which is achiote-marinated fish with pineapple and cilantro. 850 Commerce St., Miami Beach, 786-453-2657

Bistro BE to Open in Brickell

Mark your calendars: Bistro BE is said to be opening in mid-July. (Follow the restaurant on Facebook and Twitter for updates.) Inside Brickell's Axis building, Executive Chef Frederik Appelt, known for his work at the historic 't Zwart Schaap restaurant in Belgium, will serve classics like mussels, frites, and sweet-and-savory waffles, as well as modernized dishes. Owner Emmanuel Verschueren says "in Belgium, the beer is just as important as the food," so it's no surprise that Bistro BE will also offer more than 50 brews, served in the proper glassware. 1111 S.W. 1st Ave., Miami 

Off-the-Menu Tasting at SHIKANY

Join SHIKANY Chef Michael Shikany this Friday at 7:30 p.m. for his new weekly 10-course degustation menu. The 24-seat tasting will feature off-the-menu dishes such as toto tartare with pickled ramps, strawberry preserve gelée, sake kaffir gel, yuzu glass, and mimo chive. Reservations are required. 251 N.W. 25th St., Miami, 305-573-0690

Quick Lunch at La Mar by Gastón Acurio

Mandarin Oriental's new Peruvian restaurant now offers an express weekday lunch menu that gets diners in and out in 45 minutes. The lunch crowd can design their own trio—with choices like the grouper chorrillana with grouper, tamarind chorrillana sauce, and yucca bacon mash—pick a glass of red or white wine, and have dessert. 500 Brickell Key Dr., Miami, 305-913-8358

We narrowed down our favorite Miami Spa Month specials so you can get right down to relaxing with one of these luxury treatments, available at exclusive prices through August.

A luxe treatment room at renew the spa at The James Royal Palm. 

If your hair is feeling dry from the summer heat, renew the spa at The James Royal Palm has the solution. The 80-minute MoroccanOil hair treatment and style will get your strands back in shape with a hydrating scalp mask and oil treatment, topped off by a blow dry to give your 'do a dose of shine. 1545 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-604-5700

The new Metropolitan by COMO, Miami Beach's COMO Shambhala Urban Escape spa is serving up the ultimate detox with a South Asian-inspired 60-minute Indian head massage, which works out all of the tension in your head, neck, and shoulder areas, and includes a gentle facial massage and wellness juice. 2445 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-695-3600

At Acqualina Spa by ESPA, the 50-minute refining enzyme facial will give you a glowing complexion for summer, cleansing and brightening your skin, boosting cell regeneration, and exfoliating with a fruit enzyme of pumpkin and botanical extracts to remove dead skin. You'll feel refreshed and smooth. 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, 844-602-4941

Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa is all about healing the body and the soul, but one of our top picks on the Spa Month menu heals a different type of soul. The 50-minute body and sole renewal goes from head to toe; it starts with a full-body massage and ends with a foot rub focusing on the soles of your feet and incorporating a therapeutic foot balm of essential oils like rosemary, mountain pine, and lavender. 6801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 866-276-2226 

Skip the rum and opt for the 75-minute piña colada massage and body polish instead with the summer-themed treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne. The spa experience starts with an exfoliation of brown sugar and honey, and is followed by a massage with a moisturizer composed of essential oils like coconut, pineapple, and vanilla. 455 Grand Bay Drive, Key Biscayne, 305-365-4197

PHOTOGRAPHY VIA RENEW THE SPA

Celebrate Bastille Day (July 14) by partaking in French festivities around Miami—from a prix-fixe to a Parisian pop-up shop. 

Visit L'Echon Brasserie on Bastille Day for a special menu. 

Food and Wine Pairing at L'Echon Brasserie

Pubbelly Boys' new L'Echon Brasserie is saluting the French national holiday with a three-course prix-fixe menu ($55) and optional French wine pairing on Monday, July 14. The menu starts off with Provençal summer vegetable terrine or Niçoise salad, with a second-course option of crispy lamb belly or brochette of local tripletail. The meal ends on a sweet note with a choice of pot du opera with Panther Coffee mousse or Granny Smith apple mille-feuille with homemade ice cream. Get even more in the spirit with the absinthe-themed Bastille punch, La Fée Verte, composed of vodka, fresh Florida citrus, cucumber, cane sugar, and Pernod. 6261 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-483-1611

Make Baguettes at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts

Start your Bastille Day celebration a little early this Saturday, July 12 at 10:30 a.m., when Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts is hosting a Bastille Day cooking demo of French dishes à la maison. Chefs will show you how to whip up baguettes, crêpes, French onion soup, and chocolate mousse. They’ll also offer tips to add French flair to your at-home cooking a la Julia Child. 3221 Enterprise Way, Miramar, 888-569-3222

Sunday Brunch goes French at Tamara Bistro. 

Bastille Day Brunch at Tamara Bistro

Sunday brunch takes on a French twist on July 13 at Tamara Bistro at the Art Deco National Hotel. From 11 a.m.-3 p.m., enjoy the sounds of jazz wafting from the French Horn Band while sipping themed cocktails and feasting on a menu complete with charcuterie, a pasta station, French cheese, and, of course, French pastries. 1677 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-532-2311

Five Courses of French Fare at Palme d'Or

Michelin-starred Executive Chef Gregory Pugin at the Biltmore Hotel's Palme d'Or restaurant is serving a five-course Bastille Day dinner on July 14 ($105). Dine on an assortment of authentic dishes including foie gras terrine, les escargots de Bourgogne, l'agneau aux saveurs des pyrennees (lamb with sweet pepper and mashed beans) and la tarte tropezienne, composed of brioche, cream, honey, and almonds. 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables, 305-913-3200

Roses and Dreams will pop-up at ISA on Bastille Day. 

Shop Like a Parisian at ISA

Perfect your Parisian look when Miami-based, French-themed boutique Roses and Dreams pops up at ISA boutique on July 14. From noon-7 p.m., attend a shopping event offering exclusive prices and French indulgences like macarons and rosé. If you've been meaning to get to Paris for French labels like Emika Paris, Antik Batik, and Crezus Paris, this shopping excursion will save you a plane ticket. 34 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 786-558-8027

After a 42-year hiatus from hosting a nominating convention, Miami jumps back in to bid for the 2016 Democratic National Convention.

Richard Nixon and future running mate Spiro T. Agnew speaking to supporters at the 1968 Republican National Convention at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

In August 1968, Miami Beach played host to the Republican National Convention—picture Rockefeller girls dancing down Collins Avenue greeting nominees in miniskirts, larger-than-life Uncle Sams on stilts, and elephants roaming the streets. At the convention, Richard Nixon, who had lost the 1962 race for governor of California, made a political comeback defeating Nelson Rockefeller, Ronald Reagan, and George Romney to snag the Republican presidential nomination. The atmosphere at the event was undoubtedly light, despite the political gravitas of the election’s outcome—Nixon’s win that year marked the fracturing of the New Deal coalition, which, with the exception of the Eisenhower administration, had allowed Democrats to dominate Washington politics for 36 years. “There was a lot of excitement,” recalls Lillian Cox, who, at 20 years of age, was on-site as a press assistant for the RNC Communications Department. “It was an opportunity to schmooze and party with people you’ve just seen on TV or had a fight with in Congress.”

In February of this year, Miami officially announced that it would be bidding for the 2016 Democratic National Convention, making this its second run at a nominating convention since hosting two in 1972 (it also pursued the DNC in 2000). If the city meets the Democratic legislative requirements, which vary from labor laws to raising sufficient funds, Miami would conceivably benefit from an influx of tourism and the ensuing economic impact, despite an initial cost projection of $50 million. Plus, Miamians would have a front-row seat at the American Airlines Arena to a significant historical event, as many speculate former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to be the “Front Runner” for the Democratic presidential nomination.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STATE ARCHIVES OF FLORIDA, FLORIDA MEMORY

A new exhibit at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU explores Hollywood in the years surrounding WWII.

Gentleman’s Agreement, a 1947 film based on a novel of the same name, took a hard look at anti-Semitism.

“It’s a story that people don’t really know,” explains Jo Ann Arnowitz, executive director and chief curator at Miami Beach’s Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU. The tale in question is Hollywood’s role in the years just prior to America’s December 1941 entry into World War II. It’s a history far more checkered than most of today’s rosy recollections, and one on colorful display in the museum’s “Cinema Judaica” exhibition.

What emerges in this showcase of over two dozen period film posters is a reminder of just how strong isolationist feelings were in the US during that era. “Some people stood up to Nazi Germany, but there were so many other people being lackadaisical and doing nothing,” says Arnowitz.

Hollywood’s desire to maintain German movie ticket sales—even if it meant purging scripts, casts, and crews of anything and anyone “offensive” to Nazi officials—all too often outweighed moral concerns. “Out of the eight major studios producing films at that time, only two stood up to [German Minister of Propaganda Joseph] Goebbels’s demands about not employing Jews,” says Arnowitz. “United Artists closed down their German arm, but still distributed their films there through another company. Only Warner Brothers went the opposite route in creating films that were about what was happening in Germany.”

The results, as seen in “Cinema Judaica,” culturally skew both high and low—from The Man I Married, a 1940 melodrama spotlighting anti-Semitism in Germany, to I’ll Never Heil Again, a gloriously surreal 1941 Three Stooges short with Moe as a brutish Hitler and Larry as a befuddled Goebbels. Third Stooge Curly is left to serve as the lone voice of wisdom: Breaking character as the other two begin yammering in faux-German, he turns to the camera and confides, “They’re nuts!”“Cinema Judaica” is on exhibit through August 24 at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU, 301 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-672-5044

PHOTOGRAPHY BY 20TH CENTURY FOX

Italian jeweler Vhernier celebrates its 30th anniversary—and 10 years in Miami—with two new lines.

18k pink-gold, turqouise, and rock crystal Fleche ring, $5,700.

“There is an international point of view in Miami,” says CristianaVigano, director of communications at Vhernier, the Italian fine-jewelry purveyor that celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. “The women are strong, bold, elegant, and refined, and the landscape is full of life and color. These qualities make Miami a great place for [Vhernier] to be.”

The fine jeweler, which first opened in South Florida a decade ago, is releasing two distinct lines, Freccia and Bisquit, to celebrate the anniversary. Freccia blends bulbous, fluid shapes of rose gold with Vhernier’s trademark translucent stones in rich colors like jade, carnelian, and turquoise. Bisquit recalls Vhernier’s playful relationship with geometry, featuring pavé-diamond dome rings and milky, iridescent mother-of-pearl link necklaces.

While Vhernier touts a fan base that includes Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, and Rosario Dawson, catering to clients from its Beverly Hills boutique and Saks Fifth Avenue store-in-store concepts, it’s the company’s decade-old Coral Gables showroom that remains the jewelry house’s US home base. 135 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables, 305-445-9356

Bid on Miami native Alexander Mijares’ original painting inspired by Pitbull’s 2014 FIFA World Cup song, “We Are One (Ole Ola),” and give back to TECHO Brasil.

We Are One by Alexander Mijares

The World Cup might be over, but we won’t soon forget the worldwide frenzy of fans that flocked to Brazil—and those huddled around flat-screens at the nearest sports bar.

As the excitement dies down, there’s one more way Miamians can pay tribute to the 2014 games. This week, South Florida-based artist Alexander Mijares, along with Mr. Worldwide himself—Miami native Armando Christian Perez a.k.a. Pitbull—are auctioning off the artwork created for the rapper's World Cup anthem, “We Are One (Ole Ola)” featuring Jennifer Lopez and Claudia Leitte.

Music video for Pitbull’s “We Are One (Ole Ola)”

Mijares’ original piece, named after Pitbull’s song, features Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer statue against the outline of the World Cup host country. “To me, the World Cup is a way the world can unite through a shared passion and love for not only the game of soccer, but for the love of their respective countries,” Mijares explained to us. “My piece was designed to show the power of the host country and its iconic Cristo Redentor symbol watching over us all.”

Left: Pitbull; Right: Alexander Mijares

The 32”x32” canvas signed by Mijares and Pitbull as well as 20 giclee prints at 24”x30” are up for auction through July 19, with 100% of the proceeds going to TECHO Brasil, a nonprofit that works to eliminate poverty by involving those affected and youth volunteers. Pitbull and Mijares have also collaborated for a limited-edition merchandise collection to benefit the organization.

We asked Mijares—who was chosen to create the World Cup anthem’s official artwork—why art and music really “Are One.” He told us, “In my opinion, art and music go hand-in-hand as they are both creative forms of expression. Art can make people dance in the same way that music can; the colors, strokes and the movement of the paint take on a sense of musicality. I love listening to music when I paint and find myself singing and dancing when I really get into it. I've come to find that you don’t have to know how to play an instrument to make music; I do it with a paint brush.”

Independent films don’t often make their way to South Florida, but the selection available this month proves otherwise. Here, six flicks for all tastes.

Movie buffs will enjoy a documentary based on Roger Ebert's novel.

Life Itself
For: Movie buffs 
Based on Roger Ebert's novel, Life Itself  is a documentary that explores the life of the acclaimed movie critic with interviews, sound bites, and then some.

Playing at O Cinema Wynwood (90 N.W. 29th St., Miami, 305-571-9970) through July 17, and at Miami Beach Cinematheque (1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-673-4567) on various dates in July and August. 

Yves Saint Laurent
For: Fashionistas
This biopic tells the tale of Yves Saint Laurent's rise to fame—and the hiccups on the way—from 1957, when he took the reigns at Christian Dior at the age of 21.

Playing at O Cinema Wynwood from July 25-31.

Snowpiercer
For: Sci-fi action fans
Based on the French graphic novel Le Transperceneige by Jacques Lob, Benjamin Legrand and Jean-Marc Rochette, this sci-fi thriller takes place in 2031. An ice age that kills nearly all life on Earth takes over—and the only survivors are the inhabitants of the Snowpiercer, a massive train powered by a perpetual-motion engine.

Playing at Miami Beach Cinematheque through August 3, and at O Cinema Wynwood from July 18-24.

Venus in Fur
For: Theater lovers
Based on the two-person play by David Ives, this adaptation by Roman Polanski is shot entirely in French and stars his wife, Emmanuelle Seigner.

Playing at Miami Beach Cinematheque from July 25-August 3.

A Thirsty World
For: Conservationists
Famed photographer Yann-Arthus-Bertrand takes a look at one challenge to human survival today—water—through his trademark aerial view of the world. Filmed in some 20 countries, you'll see the everyday reality of those who are deprived of water, the people engaged in the daily struggle to find it or purify it, and the ones who bring it to those in need. 

Playing August 6 at Miami Beach Cinematheque.

Magic in the Moonlight
For: Woody Allen fans
Woody Allen loves his period pieces, this time taking us to the French Riviera in the roaring '20s, as a British stage musician (Colin Firth) attempts to expose a fraud spiritualist (Emma Stone).

Playing at Coral Gables Art Cinema (206 Argon Ave., Coral Gables, 786-385-9689) from August 8-14. 

Today models, designers, and show-goers descend on Miami for the 10th year of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. If you prefer to get your fashion fix outside of the shows, here's where to get it—you may spot a model or two while you shop and dine. 

The fashion crowd will be at Restaurant Michael Schwartz starting today. 

People Watch at Restaurant Michael Schwartz 

With the runways all set up inside The Raleigh, snag a seat at the hotel's Restaurant Michael Schwartz for lunch and be in the center of the action. It's the perfect spot to watch as the fashion crowd preps for events and models, designers, and editors waft in and out of the hotel. Plus, the lunch menu is ideal for steamy summer days, filled with fresh items like jumbo lump crab salad with ruby grapefruit, and grilled swordfish Provençal. 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-612-1163

Shop the Runway at Salon Allure's Fashion Show

On Friday, July 18, kick off Swim Week at the Salon Allure opening night party and runway show at the WET Pool Lounge at W South Beach. The cocktail reception starts at 8 p.m., followed by the poolside runway show at 9 p.m. when you can glimpse celebrity models including Sports Illustrated model Anastasia Ashley.

If you fall in love with a bikini during the show, shop the runway immediately after at mollybrownsswimwear.com. Salon Allure will then showcase the 2015 designs for 40 different brands at W South Beach from July 19-22 on the seventh and eighth floors, so you can be ahead of the crowd and choose your swimwear for next year. 2201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-938-3000

This year's Allure Lounge Miami opens Saturday, July 18. 

Get a Quick Fix at Allure Lounge Miami at Hyde Beach

To relax and freshen up between shows—or to escape from the Swim Week crowds—pop by the Allure Lounge Miami at Hyde Beach from noon-5 p.m. from July 18-20. Get beauty treatments at the poolside cabanas, like dry styling from Catwalk by TIGI, brow shaping by Tweezerman, sun care samples from Shiseido, and express manicures from COVERGIRL. 1701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-455-2990

While you're at the SLS Hotel, swing by the outdoor terrace at The Bazaar by José Andrés to fuel up on dinner or meet friends for drinks before heading to Swim Week after parties. 1701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-455-2999

See Brazilian Designs at Soho Beach House

Soho Beach House is bringing the styles of Brazil to Miami via a Brazilian swimwear pop-up from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on July 18-21 in the library and private dining room, showcasing 16 Brazilian labels—including Adriana Degreas, Blue Man, Lenny Niemeyer, and ANK Swimwear—in partnership with the Brazilian Association of Fashion Designers. 4385 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-507-7900

After browsing through the colorful collections, head over to Cecconi's for lunch, where you're sure to see a fashionable set lounging around. 4385 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-507-7902

Florida Cookery will host Swim Week Brunch on Saturday. 

Stop by The James Royal Palm's Swim Week-Inspired Events

If you want to look good and give back at the same time, visit the Trendy Truck pop-up shop created in partnership with Give: The Shop at The James Royal Palm on July 18 and 19 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Shop brands like Bardot, Thread & Supply, and Vibe Jewelry, and cool off with Kelvin boozy cocktail slushies (from 4-6 p.m.), knowing that part of the proceeds from your purchase will go to The Humane Society of Greater Miami. 1545 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-604-5700

Also in honor of Swim Week, the hotel will offer a wellness day on July 19 with a pop-up Zumba class, light bites from the Florida Cookery, and mini spa treatments from 9 a.m.-noon.

Swim Week Brunch by Florida Cookery starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday, with live entertainment and bikini diet-appropriate items such as kale chips and smoked salmon, fruit parfaits, and an egg-white omelet station. Cheat on your diet a bit with select bottomless cocktails, too. Purchase tickets here. 1545 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-276-0333

PHOTOGRAPHY VIA RALEIGHHOTEL.COM; ALLURE LOUNGE; FLORIDA-COOKERY.COM

Wildfox designer Leilani Shimoda admits to loving Sports Illustrated, the '90s, and Barbie.

A preview of Wildfox's 2015 collection 

Leilani Shimoda, the designer behind Wildfox Swim, loves combining the not-so-obvious, like vintage-inspired classics with daring Brazilian cuts. The brand, found at most high-end department stores, has a cult following among indie fashion lovers. With cheeky tops that say “take me on vacation” and “shopping is my cardio," one of Wildfox's greatest draws is its whimsy—and fans can see the latest whimsical pieces up close tomorrow at the Wildfox Pool Party & Trunk Show from noon-7 p.m. at the Boulan South Beach's rooftop pool. (2000 Collins Ave., 305-674-3315; RSVP to wildfox@ooandco.com)

We caught up with Shimoda while she's in town for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim to talk about her 2015 swim collection, and she told us how we can try her trends from the runway now. 

On this year's runway, which of your pieces do you think will stand out to the audience? 
LEILANI SHIMODA: Perhaps the Barbie terry cloth and surf jacket neoprene looks, but there's always room for surprise.

Your summer collections are known for their sassy, vintage aesthetic. What's changed since last summer? 
LS: We always keep our aesthetic in featuring vintage-inspired garments mixed with fun prints. The theme and era is completely different this year, so the whole style of the show will be new. 

A preview of Wildfox's 2015 collection 

Which era of fashion inspired this collection?
LS: Styles from the late '80s and early '90s, Barbie, vintage Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issues, and supermodels of the era. 

Which trends will emerge from your new collection? 
LS: Nineties sporty zipper play, soft terry cloth, gingham you can swim in, and hamburger bikinis. 

Which trend can we incorporate now? 
LS: Our flutter tops and new crop tops with little sleeves are so cute worn with shorts or skirts. Lightweight rib cover-ups with color-changing inks and scratch-and-sniff sunscreen smells are a great addition to any sunny wardrobe.

A preview of Wildfox's 2015 collection 

What's your warm-weather wardrobe like? Which summer staple can you absolutely not live without? 
LS: Rompers and my favorite Wildfox sunglasses in fun colors. 

When you're in Miami, what are your favorite spots to relax and eat? 
LS: Soho Beach House, and in the ocean.

If you had downtime to attend another designer's show during Miami Swim, which would it be?
LS: I'm excited to see what Mikoh does for their first runway.

The much coveted chronograph is the perfect accompaniment to summer activities, as top watch brands bring split-second timing to the wrist.

FROM TOP:
1. This Movado Circa watch ($1,495) is sleek and chic in a 42mm black PVD-finished stainless steel case with black dial and silver-tone hands and numerals. It is equipped with a tachymeter scale for measuring speed and date indication. The mesh link bracelet offers cool appeal. 

2. From TAG Heuer, this Carrera 1887 watch ($5,550) features a shimmering blue dial and is equipped with an 1887 movement made in-house. 

3. Ruggedly celebrating the brand’s legendary lunar history, this Omega Speedmaster HB-SIA Co-Axial GMT chronograph ($9,800) is crafted in titanium and features a black carbon fiber dial and subdials. It has a central chronograph seconds hand, GMT indication, and tachymeter scale. 

4. This Tudor Heritage Chrono ($4,425) is crafted in stainless steel and offered on a fabric strap. The 42mm watch houses a self-winding mechanical movement and offers chronograph functions. It is water resistant to 500 feet. 

The world’s finest brands are taking chronographs—watches that can track designated intervals of time—to new heights this season. Though chronographs are most often associated with sports (sailing, bicycling, and automotive racing, among others), they have become so sophisticated in styling that these gentleman jocks work as nicely in the office as they do on the field. Indeed, these precision instruments—which can time your morning run or help you maintain an efficient pace at work—make a powerful statement wherever they are spotted around town.

Luxury watchmakers are crafting environmentally friendly timepieces to appeal to those concerned with preserving the environment.

For several top watchmakers, including Tissot, Seiko, Citizen, and Casio, investing time and effort in developing watches that run on solar energy has been paramount to the evolution of their brands. An alternative option to quartz (i.e., battery-powered) watches, solar-powered timepieces collect energy from any light source and convert it into electrical power that is stored in a rechargeable lithium ion cell.

Generally, once the solar watches are fully charged, the stored energy enables the watch to run for months at a time; some can run for up to six months before needing more light. In the case of the Casio Pro Trek PRW-6000, the watch is also sold with a second rechargeable solar battery to ensure an even longer life span. Additionally, many of these solar-powered watches offer other functions, rendering them both environmentally and user-friendly.

FROM TOP:
1. From Tissot, the new T-Touch Expert Solar watch ($1,250), available starting in September, offers 25 different tactile functions, including time in two zones, perpetual calendar, two alarms, backlighting, absolute and relative air pressure, altimeter, chronograph, lap and split with logbook, compass, timer, azimuth, and regatta function. 

2. From Seiko, this Solar Alarm Chronograph ($450) features a stainless steel case and bracelet with black ion plating finish. The multifunction watch is powered by light energy and offers an additional 12-hour alarm, dual-time function, and chronograph with split-time measurement. Once fully charged, it operates with six months of power reserve. 

3. This Citizen Eco-Drive Nighthawk A-T ($625) is the newest addition to the Citizen Eco-Drive atomic timekeeping collection. Radio-controlled in five time zones, the watch features the Eco-Drive E650 movement, which is powered by light as well as a perpetual calendar chronograph and alarm. 

4. From Casio, this Pro Trek PRW-6000 solar watch ($600) features a triple-sensor technology for altimeter, barometer, and compass, and is synced with atomic timekeeping. It offers everything from world time indication to five daily alarm functions and chronograph indications.

Orchid, the Pantone color of the year, makes a bold statement in refined wristwatches.

Each year the fashion and design worlds eagerly anticipate Pantone’s announcement of the color of the year. In 2014, Radiant Orchid received the honor. According to Pantone, this shade is “a captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple, and pink undertones [that] emanates great joy, love, and health.” Top watchmakers, recognizing the creative spirit of the shade, fully embraced the trend with a selection of eye-catching timepieces that pop against seasonally chic white fashions and summer tans. 

FROM TOP:
1: This Hermès Cape Cod watch ($2,600) is crafted in stainless steel with a sleek opaline-silvered dial and raised rhodium-plated numerals. The quartz watch, which features open space at the case-to-bracelet attachment for a fashionable statement, is finished with a smooth calfskin leather interchangeable strap. 

2: From Swarovski, this Lovely Crystals watch ($465) features 16 floating white and pink Swarovski zirconia and other stones that move around the dial in a circular motion. The timepiece features an orchid-hued calfskin leather strap. 

3: This Versace Purple Vanity ($1,095) watch emulates the soft hues of orchid with its leather strap and pale orchid dial. The watch is crafted in gold-plated steel. 

4: From Baume & Mercier, this Linea stainless steel watch ($2,990) features a mother-of-pearl dial with a satin-finish interchangeable orchid strap. 

Mara Hoffman walks us through her 2015 swim collection. 

Bright colors, neon, and to-die-for prints: That's what Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim attendees have anticipated each year since Mara Hoffman, the queen of tribal print, first presented her swim collection on the runway in 2009. Now a Swim Week mainstay, the New York designer debuted her 2015 collection on Saturday evening. We talked to Hoffman about the nerves, the inspiration and, of course, the prints.  

Your runway show is always the most buzzed-about at Swim Week. How do you draw the crowds each year? 
MARA HOFFMAN: I feel the pressure for us to outdo ourselves each year, but when it comes down to it, all I can do is be a channel for creativity and harness the light to create more awesomeness.

What are the hot swim trends for 2015? 
MH: Bright colors, a high waist, and surf references.

Walk us though your design process.
MH: First comes the inspiration and conceptualization. From there, we start with prints because they have the longest lead time; then we work on embellishments, and finally we create the silhouettes.

What did you change in your 2015 line from the previous summer?
MH: We create a new line of prints each season with color being a huge factor. Our use of color is something that will always stay the same. It’s part of our DNA.

How can we take the trends from your runway show and incorporate them into our summer wardrobes?
MH: There are tons of pieces in the collection that expand past the beach or pool. Our cover-ups can be worn during the day or even out to dinner. I also like to think of bikinis as great tops that you can layer. Personally, I wear bikini tops as bras and totally encourage others to explore it as an alternative, too. 

What do you wear all summer? 
MH: I’m always wearing a great sarong or scarf. I wear one everywhere; inside or outside. I’ll use it as a skirt, a turban, a way to cover myself from the rain. I’ll even lay it out as a blanket on the beach. There are endless uses for a sarong. 

When you're in Miami, where do you relax and dine? 
MH: I'm a beach girl, so give me a comfy chair and I'm good to go. My favorite places to eat are Nobu or Mandolin Aegean Bistro.

Leading watch brands are ensuring that our oceans stay healthy for years to come.

It’s no secret that the ocean is under severe stress due to overfishing, pollution, and climate change. A number of top watch brands are recognizing the need to support the protection and preservation of the world’s seas by launching timepieces that give back.

Blancpain, a brand well known and respected in the dive community, helps facilitate conservation with projects around the globe such as the Pristine Seas expedition. Conducted by National Geographic explorer Enric Sala and his team, Pristine Seas is an effort to explore, research, and protect some of the last unspoiled places in the sea.

Similarly, through its relationship with Unesco, Jaeger-LeCoultre supports the protection of 46 marine sites around the world on the Unesco World Heritage list. The luxury brand has been involved in this project for more than half a dozen years and provides immediate financial backing for Unesco to support the daily activities conducted at these crown jewels of the oceans.

Still other brands have created special timepieces that contribute to ocean conservation. Omega designed its Seamaster Planet Ocean GoodPlanet as a tribute to its partnership with the GoodPlanet Foundation for environmental conservation. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this watch fully funds a project to preserve mangroves, sea grasses, and coral reefs in the seas of Southeast Asia. IWC supports a host of ocean involvements that range from projects in the Galapagos to partnering with the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Cousteau Society. It regularly creates watches in honor of these relationships and commits portions of the proceeds from every sale to them.

FROM LEFT:
1. The Fifty Fathoms Automatic watch by Blancpain ($15,100) features an antimagnetic inner case, one-way rotating bezel, and is water-resistant to approximately 1,000 feet. 

2. This 44mm Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GoodPlanet watch ($8,100) is fitted with the Omega Co-Axial caliber 8605 and equipped with a helium escape valve. 

3. From Jaeger-LeCoultre, this Deep Sea Chronograph ($11,800) houses a 340-part mechanical automatic movement, is crafted in steel, and is water-resistant to 330 feet. 

4. IWC’s Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Expedition Jacques-Yves Cousteau ($7,200) honors the explorer’s 1971 voyage to the Galapagos archipelago. Its caseback bears an engraving of the explorer with his trademark red wool beanie. 

Find out where Cameron Diaz was rumored to be chatting with friends about new beau Benji Madden. This and more in this week's celebrity news. 

Cameron Diaz hit the town with some friends. 

Cameron Diaz Dines at Porfirio's 

Cameron Diaz had dinner with friends at just-opened Mexican restaurant Porfirio's on July 7. The group chatted over spicy Mexican dishes and Mezcal drinks.

Selena Gomez and Spring Breakers Director Have Dinner at Makoto

Selena Gomez was spotted at Makoto in Bal Harbour on July 11 with Springer Breakers director Harmony Korine. The two ate Japanese fare with green tea.

Mike Tyson Hosts Pre-Fight Party at Red, the Steakhouse

Mike Tyson and his entourage visited Red, the Steakhouse for a pre-fight dinner on the evening of July 9—the night before the championship-boxing event at the AmericanAirlines Arena. Tyson ordered king crab and lobster. 

Nico & Vinz Check Into Gale South Beach

Nico Sereba and Vincent Dery—a.k.a. musical duo Nico & Vinz—checked into Gale South Beach on July 15, when they arrived in town for their gig at the Fillmore to kick off Miami Swim Week.

Nina AgdalDines at Il Mulino

Sports Illustrated cover model Nina Agdal dined with three friends last week at new SoFi restaurant Il Mulino New York South Beach.

Jimmy Graham Goes VIP at Zuma

The same day he signed a $40 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, University of Miami graduate and New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Graham was seen making his way to the private room at Zuma with friends on July 15.

Jamie Foxx and a large group of friends were also at Zuma late Tuesday night. 

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER POLK/GETTY IMAGES FOR ESPYS

Where to toast summer this week in Miami.

Enjoy Bulla Gastrobar's Spanish Margarita on National Tequila Day. 

National Tequila Day at Bulla Gastrobar

If tequila is your spirit of choice, show some love on National Tequila Day (July 24) at Bulla Gastrobar. Bartenders will be whipping up a special Spanish Margarita—a blend of Cazadores Reposado, Grand Marnier, amontillado sherry, lime juice, and agave nectar—during happy hour in honor of the holiday. 2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, 305-441-0107

Champagne and Oyster Tasting at Toscana Divino

This week marks the return of summer wine tastings at Italian spot Toscana Divino in Mary Brickell Village. Swing by on Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. for a champagne and oysters pairing event featuring Billecart-Salmon, La Grande Dame, and Laurent-Perrier Rosé with fresh oysters. 900 S. Miami Ave., Miami, 305-371-2767

New Summer Salad Menu at Shore Club

Terrazza at Shore Club recently debuted a seasonal salad menu perfect for keeping your summer diet in check. Order poolside for lunch or dinner; light options include the watermelon salad with heirloom cherry tomatoes, vidalia onions, baby arugula, and feta cheese, and the grilled peach salad with baby spinach, shaved fennel, red onions, toasted pecans, and goat cheese. 1901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-695-3226

Il Mulino New York Opens in SoFi

An Italian restaurant hailing from New York has just opened its doors to Miami Beach. Il Mulino New York’s menu by Executive Chef Michele Mazza presents a mix of the eatery’s signature dishes—such as ravioli di porcini with champagne truffle cream sauce—as well as daily specials and South Florida-specific items. 840 First Street, Miami Beach, 305-372-1221