Miami International Film Festival Goes Speakeasy Chic

To start the Miami International Film Festival off right, I attended the Patrón XO Cafe Noir Opening Night Party on March 3, 2012, at the Historic Alfred I. Dupont Building downtown. The event had a speakeasy/Chicago gangster theme, so the Dupont was the perfect setting. The former home of the Florida National Bank was built in the 1930s. The architectural details are to die for – a mix of moderne with art deco flourishes. I loved how the space is used for public events. For example, the bank vaults are open for all to see inside, and bartenders serve drinks from behind the teller windows featuring brass scrollwork.

Spotted: Marysol Patton of the Real Housewives of Miami, who looked stunning in a fitted, off-white gown with art deco-style beading and wispy ostrich feathers.

Overheard: “Don’t believe her, honey!” – Random guy giving advice about the tarot card reader

Experienced: Getting pulled into a conga line and being sprayed with Gucci Rush by some random lady after I asked what perfume she was wearing.