In 2021, Miami will be recognized globally as the launching pad for swimwear and swim fashion. More to the point, Paraiso Miami Swim Week is essential to the survival of the industry overall. Briefly, it is a multi-platform gathering that enhances relationship building, new design — while connecting buyers and suppliers to make that Miami Sizzle translate into a swimwear sales for a market segmentation humming to the tune of 18.85 billion dollars – all the way to the bank. And according to Statista Reseach Department, this market value will reach a value of 29.1 billion U.S. dollars by 2025. Now that’s a-lot of Miami bacon to fry!
It all started in July 2018, when PARAISO opened its doors in Miami Beach. It is the largest swimwear trade show in the world. Full disclosure; when beautiful women are parading down the runway in sexy swimwear, it amplifies the views! Verily, it is a celebratory time as the city comes alive with an energy that is second to none. Just ask any Uber driver —who seeming enjoy catching a fare to the swimwear show. You see, unlike most American cities, Miami celebrates sex-appeal rather than shaming it. In fact, it is worn badge of honor. In addition, Miami culture enjoys VIP amenities including champagne butler service, a luxurious lounge area, and free access to WI-FI – not to mention dinner and dancing. On a national level, it has taken the thunder away from the once exciting NYC. Sad, but true.
On November 14th, 2020, Paraiso Miami Beach presented Destination Colombia, a new Colombian fashion display highlighting the Spring/Summer 2021 collections —at Paradise Plaza located in the Miami Design District. In short, The event showcased 12 Colombian designers and even featured established brands such as OndadeMar, Verdelimon, and Encantadore. In addition, special attention was paid to the new designers in the swim and resort market segmentation including Palmacea, Mola Mola, Ancora, Carolina Estefan, Estivo, Corpo, Praia, Nawa, and Mar de Rosas.
In the spirit of advanced technology, swim enthusiasts watched fashion shows live through Procolombia’s Instagram account. It was game-on as Stitch Lab, the luxury online retail space for Colombian fashion, hosted a media reception —serving delicious mimosas by Miami Cocktail Company.
Allow me to be clear, presenting swimwear is not an easy task. There are so many intricate details to consider. Thankfully, Silvia Cobos and Jetlagmode accessorized the show with shoes, bags and accessories all made using sustainable handmade techniques, while Junior & Hatter created the runway hair looks this season. Each part of a vital organ with regard to the billion dollar annually swim industry.
This was the first-ever series of curated projects between Paraiso Miami Beach and the Columbian government agency Procolumbia. “This is one of the leading initiatives for creating new business opportunities for Colombian brands in the US market, and it opens a window to a brand new way of connecting these brands with both media and industry audience.” - Natalija Dedic Stojanovic, Creative Director of PARAISO Miami Beach.
The raw materials produced in Columbia has helped the national fashion industry achieved its own identity, which incidentally, very few textile and clothing producing countries manage to achieve.
“Colombia has become one of the most fertile and dynamic territories on a global level for swimwear and beach wear experimentation: that’s why we decided, together with PARAISO Miami Beach, to present the most innovative Colombian brands to buyers and the national press through this multifaceted fashion initiative and an experience, DESTINATION Colombia.” — Procolombia president Flavia Santoro.
Thanks to TaraInk and specifically Nick D’Annunzio, editors, buyers and influencers experienced fashion shows at the snazzy SLS Brickell Hotel.
The Fi’lia restaurant, located inside the hotel, proudly served a handful of the chefs favorite Italian delicacies to the appetite of fashion experts – who happened to be thrilled to be part of a cosmopolitan event setting- once again. Soon thereafter, the group moseyed on down to SAAM lounge to discuss – you guessed it, beautiful women, swimwear, Columbian design and yes, even the trials and tribulations of COVID-19.
On the morning of the first show, The Spot Barber in Brickell cleaned up the men who had a few bust days and nights ahead of them. I have said this before and I will say it again; When you visit Miami, pay a visit to this barber shop – I promise you that it is well worth the time.
This season, the setup at Paradise Plaza was a perfect setting to showcase top Colombian swimwear brands. The project showcased 12 Colombian designers and featured established brands such as OndadeMar, Verdelimon, and Encantadore, but also new rising stars in the swimwear and resort wear industry including Palmacea, Mola Mola, Ancora, Carolina Estefan, Estivo, Corpo, Praia, Nawa, and Mar de Rosas.
Once the show was complete, the Miami sizzle was just getting started. Dinner was held at the Chotto Matte restaurant for an elegant, fun and delectable dinner that was icing on the cake!
Here, I present some of the best swimwear that Columbia has to offer for 2021
ANCORA:
ANCORA- More than ever, our swimwear is a must for women, men and children. Traveling to the beach has become a treasure, and DRESSED TO SWIM is the answer. Average price: $120 www.ancoraswimwear.com (free shipping and returns to the US)
Carolina Estefan:
Carolina Estefan— At Carolina Estefan, we take swimwear to another level. A swimwear piece is not made only for swimming or sitting by the pool. We call them “bodysuits,” and can be worn day to night: you throw on the incredibly comfortable, wrinkle-free matching skirt and are ready for a tropical wedding. They’re a must-have. $95-$125.
Encantadore:
Encantadore We believe the fascination of life resides in everyone’s unique charm. This is the charm we seek, empower and believe in. Each one of our pieces is a result of a very thoughtful process of design. We aim to deliver a product that makes every women feel confident about herself. We strive for our clients to not only look great in what they wear, but to feel great wearing it. Encantadore encourages and empower all to be their best version, expressing their true self, conquering each moment with a pure and true happiness.Our brand has a feminine, romantic and elegant proposal, with very good quality. We design for real women and that is why we are committed to have silhouettes that enhances and highlights all types of bodies and styles. One Piece$150, Kimono $140
Estivo:
ESTIVO— Throughout history, many cultures have viewed the pomegranate as a symbolic fruit of prosperity, integrity, and success. A successful woman believes in herself, is defined by her courage, the ability to accept her reality and to be the protagonist of her story, since true success comes from the constant evolution in her life.Estivo is a Colombian brand of swimwear and beachwear, born 11 years ago that projects itself as a global, happy, conscious, refined, natural brand with a high content of social responsibility. Their DNA is based on two values: Inclusion (we want each Estivo woman to reflect her authenticity and naturalness through designs and silhouettes that make her feel comfortable and safe while allowing her to remain in all her essence). The other value is Eco-Friendly (most Estivo garments are made from recycled plastic bottle cloth). Between $100 and $180 per swimsuit
Mola Mola:
Mola Mola- designs that make you feel confident and compassionate. High quality, sophistication and colorful swimsuits for men, women and children. When you purchase Mola Mola you are supporting female artisans and entrepreneurs. Price $156
Nawa:
Nawa- Our resort-wear is a must have for women because with our pieces you can easily transition from one season to another, they are versatile and comfortable. You can pack them very easy for any trip and with the shower vapor it will easily lose the wrinkles. Nawa pieces are simple, iconic and versatile. You can use them in every type of weather and always feel classy and elegant. The pieces are for every type of woman no matter the size and they are adjustable because we don’t believe in standards. We want women to feel their best and confident in their bodies while also highlighting and celebrating their appearance. Nawa’s pieces accomplish this. Finally, you can use one piece throughout the whole year making it also affordable for everyday women. Nawa pieces are statement pieces for everyday use made with Cotton and Linen fabric. $300
Praia:
Praia “Praia is a different and high-quality proposal. It’s taking swimwear to the next level, where vibrant colors, exclusive prints and sophisticated cuts full of volume, allow us to create garments full of functionality and versatility for a global woman of any age who values fine details and enjoy the fashion world” Ref: Banje 0103 – One piece swimsuit $360; Ref: Banje 0106 – Woman skirt $450.
Verdelimon:
Verdelimon- From the cliffy coasts of Mediterranean to the colorful depths of Maldives, the La Mar Collection features a mix of bold and dainty prints on feminine one-pieces and bikinis, Delightfully diverse seaside landscapes invoke this collection of playfully patterned swimwear. The La Mar Collection is curated with creativity to inspire timeless nautical motifs and spirited sea critters on modern and classic silhouettes. Dive in with styles that maintain practicality with flirty details for your tide changing style. $351
