PARAISO Miami Beach, a cornerstone of swimwear fashion, began its journey in the early 2000s, founded by Natalija Dedic Stojanovic. Originally conceived as a platform to elevate swimwear fashion, PARAISO has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Over the years, it has transformed from a series of intimate runway shows into a globally recognized event. Iconic locations such as Collins Park and the PARAISO Bungalow have become synonymous with high fashion and luxury, hosting some of the most memorable shows in swimwear history. Today, PARAISO is not only a showcase for established brands but also a launchpad for emerging designers, promoting sustainability and ethical practices within the fashion industry. This year, Miami Swim Week celebrates their 20^thanniversary, and PARAISO is leaving no stone unturned as they continue to influence and showcase their commitment to shaping the future of swimwear fashion.

The first showcase of the day was a presentation by the talented students from St. Thomas University in Miami. St. Thomas University’s fashion program is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum that blends creativity with practical skills, preparing students to excel in the competitive fashion industry. The program offers a range of courses in design, merchandising, and fashion marketing, fostering a holistic understanding of the industry. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences, industry connections, and opportunities to showcase their work. This presentation at PARAISO is a testament to the university’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of fashion designers. It’s incredibly inspiring to see a prestigious platform like PARAISO giving the University the opportunity to showcase on an international level, with media attention and influential guests amplifying their reach and impact.

Photo: P.G. Photography/Bravura Magazine

Following the student showcase, the spotlight shifted to the swim brand Hunting Hue, the brainchild of Rebecca Collinson-Smith, an Australian photographer, senior interior stylist, and avid traveler. Collinson-Smith’s diverse background infuses Hunting Hue with a unique perspective, blending artistic vision with practical design. The brand has quickly gained recognition for its vibrant, eclectic style that captures the essence of summer and creativity. The collection shown tonight featured an array of luxurious silk scarves and playful swimwear, each piece a work of art. The runway came alive with bold colors and unique patterns, reflecting Hunting Hue’s dedication to quality and innovation. From the intricate designs to the luxurious materials, the collection made a powerful statement in the world of swimwear fashion, showcasing the brand’s commitment to creating beautiful, high-quality pieces that resonate with a wide audience.

Photo: P.G. Photography/Bravura Magazine

Next on the runway was AZULU, a heritage brand originally founded in the 1980s and revitalized in 2018 by Maya Memovic and Alex Srour. The duo reimagined AZULU with a contemporary global approach to Latin design, infusing the brand with fresh energy while honoring its roots. AZULU is committed to local and ethical production, with all processes handled in-house to ensure fair practices and exceptional quality. The collection presented at PARAISO exuded effortless elegance, featuring intricate hand-beading, embroidery, and playful fringes. Each piece was crafted in small, family-run factories in Bogotá, Colombia, underscoring the brand’s dedication to sustainability and ethical production. This show was a beautiful celebration of AZULU’s commitment to quality, creativity, and the exuberant Latin spirit, making it a standout moment of the evening.

Photo: P.G. Photography/Bravura Magazine

The day concluded with Adriana Fernandez’s ‘Coastal Linen Escape’ collection, a masterful blend of elegance and comfort. Fernandez’s designs are known for their sophisticated resort wear appeal, capturing the essence of luxury and relaxation. On her website, Fernandez expresses that designing for women and understanding their needs, fears, passions, and motivations has been the most engaging and enriching aspect of her role as a designer. This understanding is evident in her ‘Coastal Linen Escape’ collection, which features vibrant, light-filled colors and luxurious materials. Each piece is a testament to Fernandez’s incredible craftsmanship, blending elegance with comfort in a way that resonates with the sophisticated tastes of her audience. The collection perfectly captured the essence of sophisticated resort wear, closing out Day 1 of PARAISO on a high note.

Photo: P.G. Photography/Bravura Magazine

As the first day of PARAISO Miami Swim Week comes to an end, the anticipation for the days ahead is palpable. The diverse array of talent and creativity showcased today sets a high bar for what’s to come. Stay tuned for more recaps and highlights as we continue to explore the best of swimwear fashion at PARAISO. And in the meantime, enjoy out video recap of day one of PARAISO!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bravura Magazine (@bravuramagazine)