En Avance, a Miami Design District Fashion Pioneer
The Miami Design District, already home to art galleries and some of the city’s finest dining, is fast becoming a high fashion mecca with the recent addition of Christian Louboutin and the anticipated arrivals of luxury behemoths, Louis Vuitton, Hermès and Cartier. But, En Avance, which means “in advance” in French, was the original upscale retail pioneer when it first opened in 2008.
What began on Lincoln Road in 1993, and commanded the attention of Madonna, Cameron Diaz, and Robert De Niro, is now one of the neighborhood’s most popular boutiques.
The shop’s name is more than apt. Its owner, Karen Quinones, scours the globe seeking the most innovative, fashion-forward designs for women, men and children, shoes, accessories, home accents and skincare, offering shoppers a carefully curated selection of items — from T-shirts and jeans, to the ultimate in luxe — from both emerging and well-known designers.
En Avance’s roster includes designs by Barbara Bui, Mirco Giovannini, La Petite Salope and Robert Rodriguez, eyewear by Dsquared, shoes by Alexandre Birman, Anna Baiguera flats, sexy Eskini dresses, Malene Birger tops, earrings and cuff links by Robin Rotenier, fine jewelry by Irene Neuwirth and in-house jeweler, Costa Jewels, fragrance and body products from Santa Maria Novella and Dayna Decker - all strikingly showcased against the store’s austere white walls, exposed, 14-foot ceilings, concrete floors and white lacquered and stainless steel custom made furnishings.
Besides innovative designs, En Avance prides itself on its friendly and knowledgeable staff. Personal stylists are available for private appointments and after-hours shopping, and the shop regularly hosts designer trunk shows, special events, and charitable functions that help benefit the community.
En Avance, 161 N.E. 40 St., Miami, FL.
