By Cait Munro
Lili Buffett photographed by Bailey Templeton.
Poolside at the Faena; photo by Todd Eberle, courtesy of the Faena.
With a vibrant sense of style, a deep appreciation for the beach and a desire to share all that the city has to offer, philanthropist Lili Buffett is a true Miami girl. She grew up in the area before heading to New York for college at Columbia University, where she studied economics and philosophy. While there she developed an interest in the alleviation of poverty and gender inequality, which has informed her work with charities like the Captain Planet Foundation and Kids Operating Room. “Access to proper healthcare in every corner of the world is so important to me, and I’m really proud of what’s being done by KidsOR—a charity known for their work in Africa, and as of late, an expansion into Latin America,” she says. “Through a partnership with Smile Train, they’re making pediatric surgery centers accessible to areas lacking these desperately-needed facilities.”
How would you describe your sense of style?
No matter where I go, whether it’s the Faena for dinner with my girlfriends or The Surf Club for a romantic date with my husband, I always aim to dress for the occasion. And whether I go more bohemian glam or classic and elegant, I always make a point to embrace my femininity.
What is your must-have accessory for Fall?
Bottega Veneta’s timeless (and ultra-soft) Pouch is a must-have because it fits exactly everything I need for a day and night on the go.
What does a typical day look like for you?
First, I head to the beach to catch the sunrise (my morning ritual!), followed by yoga and catching up on the news with coffee. Then, I focus on work and my to-do list, before spending one-on-one time with my son. We love doing outdoor activities together, like playing tennis or jumping in the pool. On a day off, I head to Bal Harbour for lunch at Makoto and a trip to Saks to see what’s new from my favorite designers. And finally, home to get ready for date night with my husband!
Makoto’s Hamachi crudo.
What is your go-to order at your favorite Bal Harbour Shops restaurant?
I love Makoto. You can’t visit without ordering the Hamachi Ponzu and Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice; it’s the perfect lunch before a little retail therapy.
What are your must-have beauty products?
I’m a beauty junkie! Dr. Barbara Sturm and her line of clean beauty products are an essential for the Miami heat, and ones you’ll always feel good about putting on. I love the Glow Drops and Sun Drops—they’re both super light, and the latter is packed with SPF.
How do you describe your Miami style?
When it comes to what to wear, our vibrant city is ideal for eye-catching prints and bold colors. I look to Colombian designers like Johanna Ortiz, whose printed cotton dresses are perfect for warm nights, and Agua by Agua Bendita, whose designs work perfectly from poolside to tableside.
Which collections are you looking forward to seeing this Fall?
Valentino! Everything he creates is exquisite, but the ladylike-meets-punk-rock vibe of this collection has me so excited for the next fashion season—and to get dressed up again.
Who are some of your favorite designers?
Zimmermann; they always have something for Miami’s colorful dress code. Carolina Herrera’s creative director Wes Gordon is so talented. I love his modern, updated take on such a renowned name in American fashion. His new sequined pieces are at the top of my list.
Is there a piece of jewelry you’re coveting, or a recent addition you’re loving?
I love my De Beers studs. They’re truly timeless, and just subtle enough to wear all day long no matter what I’m doing (or wearing).
