L SPACE By Monica Wise

Runway and model photos from the L SPACE By Monica Wise collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

From conception, Monica Wise’s passion was to create trend-setting suits that appeal to a broad range of loyal fans and celebrities alike. As a little girl from a small town in Ohio, Monica would religiously spend winters dreaming of lying on a beach working on her tan; which is exactly what she did when she moved to Florida at age 18. For the first few months in Florida, Monica would sit on the beach and watch tan bodies soak up the sun in barely there bikinis. The women were fit, confident, and she was inspired. Her idea to set her apart from the rest of the bikini world was to create bikinis specifically for mixing and matching body styles, color combinations, and prints so that women could create a look all their own. From this, L*SPACE was created. Even now, having been in business for nearly 12 years and growing every year, Monica continuously draws inspiration from her lifetime love affair with the coastal scenes of Florida, and her present home on the So Cal coastline of Corona del Mar, California. Because of this, the L*SPACE collection has been, and will ALWAYS be made in her backyard in The O.C.. The L*SPACE Swim collection, and subsequent collections of resort wear are known for riding the cusp of surfer-chic and fashion forward in design and style. L*SPACE has been recognized in both the surf industry with 6 consecutive SIMA (Surf Industry Manufacturing Association) Awards for “Swimwear Brand of the Year,” and also in the fast-paced world of high fashion by being honored with the title of the first “Mercedes-Benz Presents Designer of the Year” in Miami in 2010. With further plans to expand the L*SPACE experience Monica continues to strive to be one of the foremost designers of luxury swimwear for every mood and occasion and strives to make the world a more beautiful SPACE.

Mikoh

Runway and model photos from the Mikoh collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

MIKOH is a sleek, directional and bold swimwear brand founded and designed by California-based sister duo Kalani and Oleema Miller, offering women’s swimwear and beachwear. Known for its fusion of statement colors, unique prints, and luxurious fabrics, MIKOH has quickly become the go-to swimwear brand for effortlessly cool girls around the world. Born from the Miller sisters’ love of the ocean and an appreciation of the perfect bikini, MIKOH’s statement styles take the effort out of vacation packing.

A must-have for the girl who is always looking to stay ahead of the swimwear game, every MIKOH suit is seamless, hardware free, and provides its wearer an ultra-flattering fit. Both of the Miller sisters contribute a diverse dynamic to the brand, as Oleema designs the collections and is MIKOH’s creative driving force, while Kalani handles the business and strategy end. Kalani and Oleema pride themselves on working together as a duo while complementing the other’s skills

The brand resonates with the quintessential surfer girl and has garnered a devout following due to its impeccable quality and visionary design aesthetic, not to mention durability in both the sand and sea. MIKOH pays tribute to Kalani and Oleema’s surfing roots and lifetime love affair with the ocean, as they were raised by a sunkissed family of surfers in Southern California and have traveled to some of the most legendary beaches across the globe.

Belluso Swimwear

Runway and model photos from the Belluso Swimwear collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

Belusso is a line of swimwear and cover-ups designed to fit perfectly into a laid-back luxe lifestyle. The most spectacular Belusso swimsuits, known simply as “Lusso”, are embellished with 14k gold and semi-precious stones such as Turquoise, Carnelian, Citrine, Coral, which adds up to the most beautiful, most luxurious bathing suit ever made.

With an uncompromising eye for fit, luxurious fabrics, and an ability to marry fashion trends to the resort lifestyle, Belusso’s head designer, Kirsten Ehrig-Sarkisian, insists that her line not patronize women’s fashion sense when it comes to what to wear to the beach or pool.

Kirsten has often been quoted as saying, “I insist on the best from all of my accessories, why wouldn’t I expect the same from my swim and resort wear?” As a result, Belusso tunics and cover-ups are always made from the best imported silks, cottons and cotton voiles from Italy and around the world. The designs are more fashion than beach and are certainly not an afterthought thrown into a swim collection, as happens so often with swimwear companies.

Luli Fama

Runway and model photos from the Luli Fama collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

Born in Cuba, and raised in Miami, Florida, Lourdes “Luli” Hanimian has always had a strong desire to become an innovator in the fashion industry. Growing up with the beaches of Miami at her doorstep, it is not surprising that Luli developed a keen interest in swimwear. Luli and her brother-in-law Augusto Hanimian are the creative forces behind Luli Fama Swimwear. They met in 1990 while both working for Augusto’s aunt, a noted swimsuit designer. Together the two gained practical experience in the fashion and swimwear markets. In 1993, they launched their first company, debuting with Cover Style, a junior swim line. In 2003, Luli Fama Swimwear was born. With its first collection debut, Luli Fama became known for its universally flattering fit and immaculate designers. Luli Fama incorporates an eclectic mix of vibrant hues and bold prints resulting in a unique look that is at once sophisticated and festive. Artfully placed embellishments, such as faceted glass beads and gold hardware in the form of seashells and starfish create a perfect balance on streamlined silhouettes. The assortment of exclusive pieces, including monokinis, bikinis, cover-ups and dresses, are made from light fabrics and enhanced with exceptional details tailored to accentuate a woman’s figure. Every collection reflects a new thought process and design concept. Luli and Augusto are inspired by a variety of factors, including Luli’s Cuban descent and Miami upbringing.

Suboo Swimwear

Runway and model photos from the Suboo Swimwear collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

The collection was touted by press as ” the most editorial collection of Swim Week” and “a breath of fresh, futuristic air.” Before the show began, a well-known stylist was overheard saying “I just want to see something different this year!”. Post-show, they stated – authoritatively – that different is most certainly what SUBOO delivered.

This year, all eyes will be on SUBOO at Miami Swim Week in July 2014.

Fusing clean lines, signature prints and bold colour, with a sense of style that is irreverent and fashion forward while still remaining timeless.
Creative Director, Sue Di Chio, presents a unique philosophy of affordable luxury and premium quality, narrowing the gap between designer and contemporary fashion.

Established in 2008, as a luxe resort collection, Suboo is now a multidimensional brand with seasonal collections of Ready to Wear, Resort and Swim, gaining accolades and impressing notable media and buyers around the world. With a devout following Suboo is now Showcased in more than 300 premium boutiques in over 17 countries including coveted top tier department stores Selfridges, Intermix, Niemen Marcus , Shop Bop, Revolve and David Jones.
Like any fashion event, it’s just as much about the parties and sponsorships, the red carpet and the street style as it is the main event. Miami Beach’s club, venues and hip eateries are packed with the jet-set crew of models, editors, photographers, writers and designers.

Like any fashion event, it’s just as much about the parties, models, and photographers, the red carpet and the street fashion as it is the runway. Miami Beach’s club, venues and hip eateries are packed with the jet-set crew of models, editors, photographers, writers and designers.

Minimale Animale

Runway and model photos from the Minimale Animale collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

MINIMALE ANIMALE is the debut swimwear collection from designer/stylist Cassandra Kellogg, whose sexy, bare-much creations have been featured twice in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, as well as in magazines like Exit, Foam, Esquire (UK) and Self Service. With head-turning details like mesh tops, high-cut legs, low-slung bottoms and plunging necklines, ANIMALES’ collection is, in Kellogg’s words, “not for the timid.” Says the designer: “The collection is for confident, young-at-heart women who aren’t afraid of wearing something striking, and also for those who embrace their natural beauty and are comfortable in their own skin.” During design school, Kellogg taught herself how to make swimwear and started wearing her own spandex creations to music festivals, surf spots, and about the town. After designing suits for Ashley Paige and Roxy, Kellogg decided to launch her own line. Kellogg says that as a child she was “obsessed with all things associated with the ocean” and “never wanted to leave the beach.” Now, she’s translated her obsession into MINIMALE ANIMALE, a line destined for mainstream by way of edgy, sexy, fashion-forward cuts, the line is definitely poised to turn up the heat.
It’s only natural that Miami, a place with summer all year around, would be the ideal choice for the swimsuit industry’s biggest event of the year. All the major labels come out to play and young up-and-coming designers vie for a spot to get their suits into the eyes of the fashion elite. Nearly fifty designers show off their latest and greatest in the Mercedes-Benz tents alone. Across the city dozens of designers participate in satellite events that are organized by independent organizations.

Like any fashion event, it’s just as much about the parties, models, and photographers, the red carpet and the street fashion as it is the runway. Miami Beach’s club, venues and hip eateries are packed with the jet-set crew of models, editors, photographers, writers and designers.

Aquarella

Runway and model photos from the Aquarella collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

A fun and fashionable swimwear brand, unveiled its freshly developed collection at Mercedes-Benz Swim Week in July 2012. Aquarellas Swim Wear Collection brought a sophisticated sexiness to swimwear fashion: a fun, fashionable and affordable luxury swimwear ensemble by giving the new collection a look that would make any woman feel as if they were living the life of a Beauty Queen. Aquarella has a clear vision of their target consumer – simply, any woman who craves youthful sex appeal in an affordable, quality swimwear brand. The Aquarella customer is much like a woman who is sexy, poised, sophisticated and lives for the moment !

It’s only natural that Miami, a place with summer all year around, would be the ideal choice for the swimsuit industry’s biggest event of the year. All the major labels come out to play and young up-and-coming designers vie for a spot to get their suits into the eyes of the fashion elite. Nearly fifty designers show off their latest and greatest in the Mercedes-Benz tents alone. Across the city dozens of designers participate in satellite events that are organized by independent organizations.

Like any fashion event, it’s just as much about the parties, models, and photographers, the red carpet and the street fashion as it is the runway. Miami Beach’s club, venues and hip eateries are packed with the jet-set crew of models, editors, photographers, writers and designers.

We Are Handsome

Runway and model photos from the We Are Handsome collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

We Are Handsome is the creative expression of husband and wife pair Jeremy and Katinka Somers. With backgrounds in advertising and a shared desire to constantly create, the couple focus on reimagining the norms of swimwear design to construct pieces that capture the spirit and emotion of summer. We Are Handsome is the embodiment of a love for the beautiful things in life, the wonder of travel and the endless and abundant magic of the inspiring world world in which we live. After launching in 2009, We Are Handsome gained an instant worldwide following and continue to be well loved darlings of the press and celebrities alike, a favourite of Beyonce, Diane Kruger, Rihanna and many more. With each piece We Are Handsome offers a slice of summer wrapped in luxury and sophistication that transcends the seasons. We Are Handsome is defined by it’s impeccable quality, innovative prints, striking colour pallettes and neoteric feminine shapes. We Are Handsome offers a full range of women’s swimwear, a ready to wear selection and an array of lifestyle products. Currently stocked in over 38 countries, the range is available at exclusive department stores worldwide, premium boutiques and selected online stores. Even with the worldwide reach We Are Handsome still remains true to their roots. Every piece is 100% Australian designed, every thread is Australian sewn and every We Are Handsome piece is made with you in mind. Every now and then something comes along that changes us. A shift that affects every corner of our world, our entire being. The moment that defines the rest of our lives. That special someone who’s eyes speak volumes of truth. The place where the sun rises from the sea, and creates a canvas to make your mark.The heirloom that provides protection and comfort from the perils of the world. We call this the catalyst. Seeking out truth and beauty, the change we search for may come from within, but always is profound. A single moment in time is all that’s needed to realise what needs to change, and how to take that next step. Through intuition and hard work we all seek our catalyst – that which puts on a new path, the journey to our destiny. This season we present you with ours: The Catalyst.

Dolores Cortes

Runway and model photos from the Dolores Cortes collection at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim by Fashion Photographer James Santiago.

Established in 1951, Dolores Cortes was one of the first Spanish designers dedicated to the swimwear industry. Today, the brand is continuously growing and the designs have become critically acclaimed and created a loyal following of customers all over the world. Being one of the top swimwear brands in Europe, Dolores Cortes is constantly seeking innovative ways to incorporate the latest trends and technology into their seasonal collections. These result in the most unique and fashion forward swimwear collection in the market. The design team, lead by Dolores Font Cortes, has perfected patterns to adapt flawlessly to every shape and size. Striving to evolve their brand and brand images, the Dolores Cortes team has begun participating in a diversity of trade shows both at a national and international level. Dolores Cortes shows her collections at various prestigious fashion weeks. Since 2007, the designer participates in Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim in Miami. Miami is the most important swimwear fashion week in the world where Dolores Cortes is the only European brand invited to show at the event. Throughout its existence the brand has taken part in numerous collaborations. To highlight a few: the creation of the swimsuits worn by the Spanish National Synchronized Swimming team in the London 2012 Olympics where the team won various silver and bronze metals. The designer has also supported various causes like Down Syndrome by way of collaboration with her DC Kids 2013 collection and the Association of Down’s Syndrome of Miami Florida. This collaboration was recognized on the 31st of January, 2013 by the North American National Down Syndrome Association at an event presented by Savannah Guthrie. The creations of Dolores Cortes are distributed in over a thousand multi brand stores both nationally and internationally, in various Dolores Cortes brand stores and hundreds of department stores dispersed throughout the world. Constantly trying to expand their offerings, Dolores Cortes is present in more than 20 countries worldwide including Mexico, Russia, the USA, France and Italy.