Whether high-waisted, Brazilian cut, retro-inspired, fringe-covered, triangle-shaped, reversible, cutout or crocheted, the bikini will be getting plenty of attention this week as Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim kicked off Thursday night with a party celebrating 25 years of Roxy with Roxy Surf Pop at The Raleigh.
Many who took in the event had to brave the epic MIami Beach floods in order to see it. The unexpected accessories at swim week this year? Umbrellas, raincoats and rain boots in lieu of flip-flops.
But, after all, it is swim week, so the models were dressed to dive in. And if you didn't get your feet wet already at the opening soiree, here's what else you can expect to make a splash, as these are this year's most anticipated Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim events.
In the Tents:
If you have a ticket, you won't want to miss ….
Mara Hoffman
Over at the Raleigh, the not-to-miss show is Mara Hoffman. The queen of boho chic swimwear is named this year's "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designer, a prestigious award that demonstrates dedication to the use of quality materials, unique style and innovative design. One of Hoffman's vibrant prints will also appear as a paint job on a 2014 E-Class Cabriolet, which will be cruising around town during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim passing out invites to shows and events. Hoffman's show is set for Saturday at 8 p.m.
Beach Bunny
Also anticipated, Beach Bunny. The flirty swim line, which last year sent Kate Upton down the runway, always promises a show that's as racy as its lingerie-inspired designs. See the brand's teeny weenie, rear-showing bikinis Friday night at 10 p.m.
Suboo
Another fan favorite: Suboo. The brand, which hails from Australia, is known for its outstanding graphic prints. This year's collection features pieces inspired by the architecture of Singapore. See the worldly show Friday at 9 p.m.
L Space by Monica Wise
Her fringe started a frenzy, making L Space by Monica Wise one of the hottest tickets in town. Good luck getting a seat Sunday at 6 p.m. when scarf-like one pieces make their way down the runway, followed by inspiring tribal prints. Will fringe still be her signature style for 2014? You'll just have to wait and see.
Maaji
Going head to head: Maaji, who's playful boho-inspired designs take to the runway at The Raleigh on Sunday at 10, and Wildfox. Both brands are blogger favorites, sending fashionistas into a how-can-I-be-in-two-places-at-once panic. Maaji, known for mixing colorful prints and patterns as well as presenting exciting new shapes in swimwear (flutter and bustier-esque tops) takes over the tents at The Raleigh as the last show of the night. While across town, Wildfox ditches the tents for a chance to walk the catwalk over the pool at Soho House. The tongue-in-cheek brand is knows for its off-the-beaten path approach to apparel, as well as kitchy runway shows, making it a fan favorite. Last year it sent models in a rainbow hue of wigs and vintage boots down the runway to the tune "These Boots Were Made for Walkin." What the brand has up its sleeve this year for its show Sunday at 10:30 is the burning question for fashionistas who've long loved its quirk.
6 Shore Road
And the newest member to the bunch that's bringing buzz to the runway: 6 Shore Road. The brand from designer Pooja Kharbanda sends its first show down the runway Monday at 7 p.m. It's allure: Taking beach from day to night, which is something every Miami gal has to do more often than not. And that's why you'll find the front row of this show packed with Miami girls seeking swimwear to social hour solutions.
Come One, Come All
If your front row invite to the tents got lost in the mail, be sure to check out these open-to-the public events.
SwimTastic Pop Up Shop
If swim week has any power at all, it's the power to make you crave new beach attire. Stock up at the Swimtastic Pop Up Shop at The Catalina (1732 Collins Ave., Miami Beach) noon to 9 daily through Sunday. In addition to shopping everything from Toxic Sadie and Bikini 2 Go swimwear, coverups, bags and sandals, find a beauty bar, giveaways and libations to keep your cool.
Style Saves
See the latest in swim styles and give back to the community on Friday, July 19 at 9 p.m. at Soho House (4385 Collins Ave., MIami Beach) when Style Saves, a not-for-profit, sends its looks down the runway in order to help underprivileged kids acquire new outfits for back to school. Purchase tickets at http://stylesaves.charityhappenings.org.
Escape Miami Style Lounge
The Sagamore transforms into a beauty oasis that requires an RSVP (EscapeMiamiRsvp@krepspr.com) but is open to anyone who wants to attend. Stop by the hotel at 1671 Collins Ave in Miami Beach on Saturday, July 20 from noon to 5 and get your picture snapped at a street-style shoot, enjoy a Bobbi Brown beauty bar, blogger fashion presentations and take in the first street-style photo exhibit, dubbed "Summer Crush," featuring 30 of Miami's fashion bloggers.
Miami Swim Lounge
Shop local designers and enjoy bites from Pop Lab and Sweet Kiss Bakery, DJs, drinks and live sketching at the Savoy Hotel (425 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach) on Saturday from 3 to 9 p.m. at the next best thing to a swim week seat. The swim-centric party is free with VIP tickets (includes a free drinks and gift bag for the first 100 VIPs) selling for $15 at MiamiSwimLounge.com.
Standard Swim
Miami Beach's haven The Standard (40 Island Ave., Miami Beach) gets in on swim week for the first time with events ranging from Sunday through Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free and open to the public, find designers like We are Handsome, Ivy Kirzher, Melissa Shoes and Swash showing off their goods in a showcase curated by Prism's Anna Laub. RSVP to the event is required (swim@standardhotel.com)
Whether seated front row or living it up at a lounge, may these swim week events make your weekend worth taking a plunge.