Meet Paola Arencibia

We had the good fortune of connecting with Paola Arencibia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Paola, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Right now I don’t believe in balance. My business is growing and in such an exciting time that I’m happy to work seven days a week. My children are grown and I have the luxury, for the first time in my adult life, to really drown myself in my work which also happens to be my passion, my art and in a lot of ways my soulmate.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m the founder of Serious Style, a personal styling consultancy based in Miami that helps women put themselves first — not through consumerism or trends, but through deep self-recognition. My work is rooted in the belief that how we dress is not superficial. It’s not about impressing the world — it’s about how our clothes are speaking to us. When we dress in alignment with our essence, we carry ourselves with clarity, pride, and purpose. And that shift changes everything.

This isn’t about shopping sprees. In fact, I teach my clients to invest less, but more wisely — to make sustainable choices that reflect high self-worth. The closet becomes a space of discernment and self-respect, not overwhelm. When you start seeing your wardrobe as a mirror of your mindset, you stop settling. You start showing up. You start choosing yourself.

Building Serious Style has taken real belief and integrity. I live by the same principles I teach my clients, and as I “serious style” myself more and more, I’ve seen the ripple effects in every part of my life. This isn’t just about fashion. It’s about remembering who you are — and dressing like it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, we wouldn’t be chasing the next big thing or looking for wild nights out — we’d be soaking in the quiet magic of Coral Gables. This city has a charm that speaks for itself. We’d start the day browsing at Books & Books, one of the most iconic indie bookstores around. Then take in the architecture and lush grounds of The Biltmore Hotel, followed by a relaxed walk along the golf course to chat and unwind.

We’d grab a bite at Le Parc Café, tucked away but always delicious, and later stop for a cortadito at Roma on 8th Street — my kind of afternoon pick-me-up. And for dinner? Always Vinya Table on Miracle Mile. Their happy hour menu is excellent, the vibe is elegant but unpretentious, and yes — they know my order by heart.

If you’re looking for bottle service and velvet ropes, I’m not your girl. But if you want real conversation, good food, a little history, and a slower pace — I’ve got you.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to credit several groups of women-centered networking and personal development programs that have supported me along the way. I truly believe that your business can’t be bigger than you so it’s important to work on yourself and your capacity to hold success, responsibility and attention. In this journey I credit the support of Boost by Luly B, LOUD Women Nation by Adrianna Foster and coaching from Caroline de Posada. Also, the model for my growth and someone who has really influenced the direction in which I”m taking my business is Nikki Novo, particularly through her Shine program.

Website: https://serious-style.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seriousstyle_mia/