Swimwear 2011 - Miami Shows

There is a new generation of swimwear designers hitting the shows.  Mavens and mavericks, setting out with their wares to impress the beach and resort world with their new take on what the modern swimsuit should look like.  I have to say...it's refreshing and it never ceases to amaze me with what they come up with, while working with so little. 

The Miami shows, the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, held at the Raliegh, July 15-19th, and the Swimwear Assoc. of  Florida's Swim Show, at the Jackie Gleason Convention Center Hall, July 17-20th., are the big ticket events.  Alas...for personal reasons, I will not be there this season.   For this, I am sad.  I generally make the pilgrimage every year, but I may have to have to settle for "armchair sourcing" of the east coast vendors this season.  I won't be completely out of the loop, the west coast rep shows are always informative and loads of fun.  Plus, I get to see what the others miss and on a closer and more personal level...it's not all bad.  

The Swim Show is very well run and has booth, after booth, of swimwear vendors plying their wares.  There's anything from A to Z.  they usually have a "Pau Hana" cocktail reception at the end of the day and a very nice runway show featuring a couple of suits from each vendor.  Most major brands are represented there, but there are also some newcomers, which is why I like this show.  You never now what you'll find.

IMG Fashion is the organization behind the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim Show, held in the evenings, at the beautiful and historical hotel, the Raleigh.  Tents are set up around their curly-cue shaped pool, with several shows scheduled each night.  This is an "invitation only" event, with lots of Paparazzi, velvet ropes and bikini clad ticket takers.  It's all very glam.  This year, the MBFW show will feature designers from all over the world.  White Sands and Kooey Swimwear hail from Australia, Beach Bunny Swimwear and Tyler Rose are from California, Cia.Maritima and Aqua di Lara bring it from Brazil, Mara Hoffman from Europe, as well as a handful of other great swimwear creators such as Red Carter, Luli Fama and more.

And although I won't be there personally this year, I will have my spies to keep us all posted on what's happening in 2011.  You can always check our 2011 Swimwear Update page for details.  Good luck to all of the hard working designers and here's to 2011!

~ C.