For anyone starting a business or hoping to finally turn a dream into reality, Michael Saiger, Founder and Creative Director of Miansai, is a man to admire. From making his own jewelry and bracelets in his dorm room at the University of Miami to opening his flagship store on Crosby Street, Michael Saiger has seen his dream through. And like any true creative mind, Saiger has no plans of limiting his line to the subtle yet classic line of hook bracelets, but rather is looking to broaden his line to reflect his evolving yet always sophisticated style.
A few days ago Surf Collective sat down with Michael to find out how his journey with Miansai, as well as his time spent in both Miami and New York, has influenced his unique and effortless style. And with impressive creative collaborations with Burkman Bros, Soludos, and Naked and Famous already under his belt, we are very excited to see what’s next for Michael and Miansai.
Read on for some of Michael’s favorite places and style essentials.
STYLE-LIST | MICHAEL SAIGER
Where did it all start?
In Miami in 2008 – 2009 and its grown from there.
What is your favorite city and neighborhood?
Miami Beach, both a city and a neighborhood
New York, Soho area around our store on Crosby street.
What is your favorite hotel?
Miami: Soho House
NYC: Crosby Street Hotel
Your favorite restaurant and dish?
Miami: Sabor a Peru, Ceviche
NYC: Navy in West Soho on Thompson. Everything is good there
Best bar?
Miami: Broken Shaker
NYC: The Jane, rooftop has a good view.
Favorite vacation location?
Patagonia
Favorite surf spot / board?
Sunzal, Ecuador. Board – Channel Island
Favorite duffel or suitcase?
My own- we just launched Miansai men’s bag
Favorite brand?
Other than my own, Acne.
Favorite jean brand?
Levi’s
Essential wardrobe item?
Black Levi’s 511’s
Favorite time of year?
Fall – Mid-Sept – November in Miami
Personal style tip for others?
Keep it simple. Always go for quality over quantity.
Your salon?
Not really a salon-type, more low key than that. For hair, I have a guy here in Miami.
Coffee or tea?
Definitely Tea, it’s why I set up a tea bar in our store at 33 Crosby. I don’t drink coffee. I’m into Kombucha.
Favorite shoemaker?
Nike
Dream car/bike?
1967 Porsche 356B Roadster
Favorite watch / watch brand?
Miansai – M12 Stainless on leather strap, vintage cognac. Swiss-Made.
Essential gadget you can’t live without?
iPhone
Favorite not-for-profit?
The Surfrider Foundation, I also support the Navy Seal Fund, we make a contribution to them every year.
Photo Credits: Onia, Wetherly PR, Back of House, Ben Fink Shapiro