Swim Style at Surf Expo
ORLANDO, FLA.—Loud prints in bold colors were the focal point of the Sept. 12 swimwear fashion show held at the Peabody Hotel during the Sept. 12–14 run of Surf Expo in Orlando, Fla., and sponsored by California Apparel News.
On the runway, stripes, polka dots and color-block patterns were complemented by metal buckles and fasteners.
Ed Hardy showed many variations of the quintessential string bikini, emblazoned with the brand’s ever-popular tattoo prints and crystals. Gossip showed a chocolate-brownbikini with neon-colored floral print, while b. swim showed a lingerie-inspired black bikini with tiny white polka dots accented with white lace. Juicy Couture showed an effortless mocha-colored two-piece with a ruched-skirt bottom.
From the looks of things, the one-piece is back with a vengeance for Spring 2009. This season’s maillots are brazenly sexy while still leaving something to the imagination. L*Space showed a metallic-gold suit with a plunging, fringed neckline and open back, while JesAla Couture showed a classic white halter with a keyhole detail below the bust that was reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe’s famous white dress. The same line also featured a blue, brown and green striped one-piece suit with a white sash belt and buttons down the front. Many of the brands showed their own versions of the cutout one-piece. Ed Hardy showed a dazzling hot-pink and black suit with lime-green glitter.
The few coverups shown seemed practical and simple. Echo’s navy-blue patterned caftan had an ethnic feel, while Spicy’s white ankle-length cotton dress was soft and sweet. —Jillianne Pierce
