Only in Miami

© Flickr / Miamism

Sometimes, its easy to take a city like Miami for granted. When our favorite local haunts and hangouts begin to seem all too familiar, when the incessant traffic finally strikes a nerve, or when there isn't one single parking space left on the beach, it's easy to imagine yourself someplace far, far away where things are...different. Quiet. Slow. Inevitably, that fantasy lasts about thirty seconds because face it: we've got a good thing going here. It's the people who live here, who work here, who create here that make Miami such an awesome, diverse place. Where else could you crash an album release party, discover the true tastes of "molecular gastronomy," and see a fashion show of trash-turned-art-turned-dresses, all in one weekend, within just miles of each other?

Friday: Magic City Ruse

What:  Radioboxer’s Album Release
Where: The Stage
When: 9:00 p.m.

© Daftbird, Josie Natori, Kenneth Jay Lane, Burberry, Rebecca Minkoff“Bi-polar" pop-rock band Radioboxer is proud to hail from Miami – case in point, their sophomore album is aptly titled “Magic City Ruse.” It drops this Friday at their album release party where they’ll take over The Stage for a show that could definitely include any of the following: “lights, lasers, fake blood, confetti, balloons, great songs and enough energy to power a small city for weeks,” and possibly so much more.

A rock show on a muggy, Miami April night is going to be hot, so shorts are looking like your best option. They don’t come much cooler than Leopard Print Denim Shorts from Rebecca Minkoff; balance out the ultra-short hem with an oversized top – we love the subtle sheer striping of Daftbird’s black-on-black tee. Glamorize with luxurious suede Burberry Mega Stud Gladiator Sandals and Josie Natori Wrap-Around Horn Bead Necklace. A exotic Kenneth Jay Lane Enameled Bangle is on-trend for Spring and the bold, zebra-esque pattern lends an eclectic feel to the look.

Saturday: How Sweet It Is

What: An Evening of Sweet and Savory Molecular Gastronomy: Room 4 Dessert Popup Miami

Where: MSA: Miami Art Space
When: Seatings at 8:00 or 10:00 p.m.
Cost: $75 per person

© Alice + Olivia, Christopher Kane, Forever 21, Marc by Marc Jacobs, MoschinoOkay, so what exactly is Molecular Gastronomy anyway? Basically, it’s a fancy term for describing the science behind food, and all of the physical and chemical reactions that go on during the cooking process. Learn more via your taste-buds this Saturday at a special pop-up event taking place in the elusive Miami Art Space, where the menu will be curated and prepared by an expert team of molecular gastronomists and master chefs. Yum! RSVP at 866-249-0400 or RGR@ciaoimports.com.

It’s also an excuse to get a little dressed up, which calls for a beautiful, diaphanous springtime dress. The Alice + Olivia Lauren Blouson Dress is the perfect shade of Spring-ready coral, with plenty of flirty, swishy movement. Cinch the waist with a fun, navy blue Polka Dot Belt by Moschino, and add a gleaming gold-tone Foreve r21 Interlocking Bangle Set for a little retro-inspired flair. A great nude pump would be a safe, pretty choice but style is all in the details: see Christopher Kane’s Platform Leather Sandals – the neon-green piping is an irresistible accent. A tan Marc by Marc Jacobs Bianca clutch is a fab neutral bag for your necessities.

Sunday: E'cology

What: Eco-Fashion for a Better World
Where: New World Center
When: 7:00 p.m.

© J. Crew, Majorica, Hobo International, Boutique 9, Jil SanderEco-fashion has come a long way since hemp sandals and tie-dyed tank tops. At this weekend’s Sustainatopia Awards, Miami designer Luis Valenzuela goes way, way beyond sustainable-organic-cotton-tees and presents a collection of “art-to-wear” dresses made from really recycled materials – think plastic bags, old lampshades, and random trash. Brings a whole new meaning to the term “second-hand,” don’t you think?

Watch the runways in something hot-off-the-runway. Jil Sander’s Floral Print Silk-twill Pencil Skirt made its debut at the designer’s Spring 2011 show, and is now available exclusively at Net-a-Porter. This high-definition, techni-color print is shocking but surprisingly wearable with the right attitude and accessories. Make this piece the definite stand-out of your outfit by pairing it with an unassuming white J.Crew Finespun Scoopneck Tee with elegant three-quarter sleeves, and classic black suede Boutique 9 Tamale Pumps. Don’t forget the ultimate accessories for any ladylike look – pearls and pocketbook. We love the texture and twirling form of the Majorica Twisted Pearl Necklace, and the refined, vintage-inspired stylings of the black patent Leanne Clutch by Hobo International.