GTG's Fabulous Shopping Destinations

All fashionistas know exactly where to go when we need to find the perfect, but sometimes we just want to shop with no particular agenda. So where do we go when we just want to shop?

Here's my list of fabulous shopping malls and districts. These places have been handpicked by yours truly based on location, variety of stores and most importantly "fashion fun," meaning you will enjoy your overall shopping experience.

There are a few honorable mentions too that while they're worth checking out they lack a component from the criteria.

Friends, get your plastic ready because you will definitely want to go shopping until you drop after you're done reading this list!

Collins Avenue:

Whenever I crave for a unique shopping experience I head on over to Collins Avenue. I love to park my car and enjoy the scenery on each block. There are many stores on and around Collins Avenue that range from your everyday mall stores like Mac (cosmetics not the Apple,) Levi's and Armani Exchange to small, yet equally impressive boutiques with one-of-a-kind merchandise.

And when you get hungry, which you will you can stop by any of the fabulous restaurants for a quick or leisure bite and a few mojitos.

Take it from me you cannot go shopping anywhere on the beach without making some time to sip on a nice cocktail.

GTG Tip: Make sure you visit Mango the clothing store, since I'm not too sure there are any other locations in Miami.



Dadeland Mall:

You want a premier shopping destination in Miami?

Dadeland Mall is that place. With close to 200 different department stores, specialty stores and restaurants, you are always sure to walk out with an empty wallet and a fabulous new wardrobe.

GTG Tip: Don't skip visiting the Express or Macy's because every mall has these stores. Dadeland Mall houses the largest Express store in the country and the largest Macy's in Florida, so make sure you check 'em out, since they're impressive in size.

Did you know that there's a CVS located inside Dadeland? It's true.



Aventura Mall:

I don't like to play favorites with my shopping spots, but I can't lie. Aventura Mall is my go to place. I  consider it the mecca of malls in North Miami. Aventura has a great mix of uber luxurious and contemporary stores alike.

GTG Tip: When you're there make sure to stop by the Anastasia counter at Nordstrom and make an appointment to get your eyebrows waxed by Laura or her girls. Once you see what they can do to your eyebrows, you'll never trust anyone but them.



Bal Harbour Shops:

When Stanley Whitman built Bal Harbour Shops in 1965, he had one thing in mind: upscale opulence. Fronted by Neiman Marcus, soon other luxury retailers followed suit, and what you see today when you walk into Bal Harbour is a multitude of high end cars such as Bentleys and Lambos, while celebrities shop at Gucci.

While it's a beautiful place and is probably the most successful shopping destination of its kind, Bal Harbour Shops is a window shopping playground to the rest of us, but a stop there once is a must for any local or tourist.

GTG Tip: If you're looking for a good Italian restaurant at a decent price, then you have to try out Carpaccio.



Lincoln Road:

Want to shop in a fun environment?

The Lincoln Road Mall has you covered. In fact this is the only place where you can shop, wine and dine and party the night away all within a short distance. Oh, there are art galleries there too!

Keep your eye out for Miami's first H&M store to open later this year.

GTG Tip: Check out Serendipity 3! You'll thank me later.



Miracle Mile:

Miracle Mile is considered the downtown of the Coral Gables community. It might have something to do with all the fabulous stores, restaurants and art galleries.

GTG Tip: If you're engaged and looking to say "I do" to a dress this is where you have to go to find your perfect gown.



Village of Merrick Park:

Very similar to the Bal Harbour Shops in upscale retailers and scenic gardens is the Village of Merrick Park also located in Coral Gables.

I love Merrick Park because it's constantly expanding. Every time I go there I see new retailers. Also make sure you stop for a drink at the Yardhouse.

GTG Tip: You can come here during Fashion's Night Out and find spectacular shopping while local celebrities host parties at participating stores. It's one of the best places in Miami to come out for this event.



Design District:

Eighteen blocks of fashion, art and furnishings-- that's what you get when you visit the Miami Design District. I truly love this place. It's diverse, it's fun and it's so appealing to so many different crowds of people.

GTG Tip: Make sure you visit the Inglot Penthouse for amazing makeup and of course you can't visit this district and not check out the Christian Louboutin store. Sidenote: I have spent many nights gazing at its window.


Honorable Mentions:

• The Shops at Sunset Place: a nice place for families looking to shop, dine and engage in entertainment. It has houses an Imax theater.
• The Falls: An iconic shopping mall. Look for Miami's first American Girl store to open later this year.
• The Shops at Midtown- Great location with restaurants and stores nearby. Keep an eye out for this spot as it will continue to grow and become hot hotter.

Until next time!

xo GTG

"I always say shopping is cheaper than a psychiatrist."- Tammy F. Bakker