Carlos Miele

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One look at the flamenco dancer-inspired gowns in this boutique and the Brazilian designer's heritage is hard to miss. The shop's bold collection is in good company with across-the-street neighbors like Alexander McQueen, and while Miele's designs are far more subdued than his country's famously flashy Carnivale attire, he still places sultriness front and center. Sexy silhouettes in pea green, rust, and plum sashay along the futuristic, white modular walls of his flagship location where, despite the rich color palette, Miele favors delicate, crepe-like fabrics for his eveningwear, accented by hip-high slits, ruched bodices, and spaghetti straps. Although the intensity of the pieces could easily stand alone, a few embellished, matching clutches are scattered throughout the shop; otherwise, the scope of accessories is limited. Maintaining a reserved aura of helpfulness, the willowy, black-clad sales associates could easily double as models for the merchandise. — Molly Noonan