Victoria Secret Angel Inés Rivero’s Guide to Miami

From the Catwalk to Coconut Grove: Inés Rivero’s Guide to Miami

For former Victoria Secret Angel Inés Rivero, the concept of beauty can be defined simply by the adage, “less is more.” After about 15 years on the catwalk, wearing “wings” and gracing the covers of ElleVogue,and Marie Claire, Rivero has turned her focus to maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle… and wearing as little makeup as possible.

"Makeup should be either a way to enhance your beauty or to just have fun being creative,” says Rivero, stating SkinCeuticals Vitamin C SerumKate Somerville Detox Daily Cleanser, and Sisley Paris Eye Concealer as her beauty must-haves. “I try to keep my face clean and to keep makeup to a minimum — just the right amount so I look fresh and healthy.”

When the Miami-based model isn’t mastering street photography using her Cannon 7D or horseback riding and playing polo with friends, she’s taking in the sites (and taking advantage of the weather!). With Art Basel week fast approaching, we asked her to share her favorite culinary finds, beach destinations, and party hotspots in the 305.

Can you share a few of your favorite places to dine out in Miami?

One of my favorite spots is the Mandolin, because the food is great (Aegean cuisine) and because the ambience is great… It has a nice outdoor area and I love the owners! Cypress Room is super cozy and the menu is sooooo different to what you usually find in Miami. Then I have my favorite Japanese restaurant, Matsuri. Great food and you can tell because you actually see Japanese people eating there!

What is the most beautiful spot (with a view) to see Miami?

Always from the water! I love taking a boat ride around the bay and the canals, and see the port with all the huge ships with their containers being loaded. There’s something about the industrial sight of it mixed with city and the water… It’s really beautiful to me — preferably at sunset and when the city lights are starting to shine.

What places do you shop for beauty products?

I go to Neiman Marcus for some products, but I also love to go to this small family pharmacy in Coconut Grove where you’ll find all kinds of products you don’t see just everywhere. It reminds me of Bigelow pharmacy in New York City.

Where do you go for a spa day?

I love going to the Standard SPA. It’s really great and you can do other things while you’re there. You can make it a day thing and the manis and pedis are included!

In your opinion, what are the best boutiques for designer finds?

Only one: The Webster!

Where do you like to work out or get exercise in Miami? 

I have mounted my own gym at home; I have a Pilates reformer and other props that I love, like the Core Stix. Otherwise, I ride horses and I started playing Polo about two years ago. I do that in Wellington [in Palm Beach County].

How do you like to spend your days off in Miami? 

Boating and going to the beach with my family and friends. Really anything with them is a good day off. I love also staying at home and enjoying the simple pleasure of doing NOTHING or just watching a movie!

What art galleries do you like to visit during Art Basel?

During Art Basel I put on my sneakers and I go to EVERY show possible. Even the Convention Center is so big, it takes me a couple of days to walk it and absorb it all. I love going to Design Miami, as well.

Where do you like to go out during Art Basel?

There are so many parties every year it’s almost impossible to keep up with all of the agendas. A good place to stop by and meet your friends is Soho Beach House. They set up a tent on the beach — my friends and I end up there sometimes.

What is the best outdoor spot for cocktails?

There’s so many great hotels with great outdoors! I love the Raleigh Hotel, the Lido at the Standard and (of course) my backyard.

What’s your favorite beach to go to and why?

Soho Beach House — because they have a great set up and they serve food right there.

Your Miami staycation spot is:

The Standard. I recently stayed there (it was the right decision!) and the staff makes you feel right at home. They also have a membership program and I’ll end up seeing many of my friends coming in and out.

- Sara D. Anderson

Photo by BFA

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