A trip to Miami is always a treat within itself, but when the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim takes over SOBE you are definitely in for a special delight. For five days Miami became the platform for the release of all ‘2013 summer swimwear fashion’ from top designers such as Vitamin A by Amahlia Stevens, Aqua Di Lara, Suboo, BCBGMAXAZRIA and a host of other international fashion originators.
Mercedes-Benz really — as they always do — set the tone for this extravaganza at the Raleigh Hotel. The parking lot became a showcase for their latest vehicles while the runway cabana was tagged with the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week insignia to serve as the backdrop for a white 2013 SLS Coupe and a 2013 SL. Yet, the most eye-catching view was entering the Oasis pool and witnessing the white 2013 SL63 AMG sunbathing poolside. The sight of this magnificent vehicle of course stopped everyone dead on arrival.
Debuting at this year’s fashion week was the long awaited swim and lingerie line from Vanessa Jean Simmons, daughter of Joseph Simmons (DJ Run) and niece of Russell Simmons. The penthouse level of the Raleigh was on fire with the latest fashions from Rose by Vanessa. Fashion bloggers, socialites, and fashion connoisseurs filled in the party atmosphere. As the models showcased the new line, guests enjoyed cocktails and mingled about what’s in store for 2013 trends.
Another star present and ready to step into the fashion world was singer/actress Christina Milian, who has coupled with swimwear designer Nicole Di Rocco to release a sexy set of bikinis and cover-ups, all under the Havana Nights label. Lively models ripped the runway showcasing the latest fashions and left spectators eager for more. Summer of 2013 should be on fire with these beach ready collections.
In addition to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, there was also the SwimShow trade show which turned 30 this year. I was able to enter the Welcome Party and the Summer Sample at The Tent at Collins Park to get a glimpse of more to come in the swimwear department. One swimsuit line that stood out was presented by Elease Donovan, Oxygen channel reality star from the show Bad Girls Club. This line is best described as elegance on the beach with vivid colors, trendy designs and themed animal prints.
What can I say? Impressive cars and great fashion makes for impeccable chatter. Mercedes definitely left their mark on South Beach this year.
