Bold, sporty and retro looks make splash at fashion week
More than 30 swim and resort wear lines presented their 2015 collections during the recent round of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim shows at the beachfront Raleigh Hotel.
While plenty of basic bikinis and maillots were spotted on the runways, a more fashion-forward viewpoint described most of the shows put on by designer labels and swimwear brands. More daring and extreme styles were showcased.
The swim shows also are a place where new lines can make their initial splash in the American market. They hope to garner the attention of the fashion press and, especially buyers, who head to South Beach each July to order the latest bathing suits, cover-ups and other resort-season accessories at trade shows held at nearby venues during Swim Week.
While sexy, skimpy styles are offered up by even the most venerable swimwear houses, there are several directions embraced by designers for the upcoming resort season, which stretches from November through next spring and summer.
* Prints are bolder, with an emphasis on digitally rendered patterns and scenic imagery, often combined in a collage or patchwork manner;
* Sporty elements borrowed from what surfers and Scuba divers traditionally wear are adopted to women’s swimwear, with rash guards, mesh, neoprene and wet-suit details featured prominently;
* Handwork makes a comeback, with lots of crochet, fringe, lace and embroidery making an appearance;
* Retro is cool, with some designers reinterpreting classic high-waisted ’50s and ’60s bathing-suit styles;
* Many brought added attention to the back of their swimsuits, creating intriguing rear views;
* Black is back in the swim in a big way.
