SWIM SS 2014 ~ Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Recap

By Jennifer Cermak
Cruise season is fast approaching and that means switching gears into 2014 style and trends. I think it is a perfect time to recap Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SWIM. Each show is invite only and features one designer showing in the famed white tent. Some shows I loved. Some shows I did not understand. (Picky, I may be…) Being at every single show is a bit overwhelming, and the shows tend to be focused on the skimpy. Looking back today, here are my two favorite runway presentations:

There is nothing better then sitting poolside with a (Free) drink in your hand and watching a legend of a brand present. Gottex has remained THE brand in swimwear for over 50 years. The 2014 collection is an elegant culture clash, a global approach drawing from Africa to Mexico.

Known for their “Knotty” bottom, this was the only runway show that actually did more then just walk the suis. A detective came out and announced he was searching for the perfect booty… and sure enough, the perfect booty was found. Nicole (the designer) thought the idea was cleaver and cute, and it sure was! I loved her feminine yet fashion forward styles. Every piece is wearable, if you have the courage to show off!

Trend Re-Cap: Many junior brands are still focused on fringe details and the monokini (L Space, A.Che, Aguaclara). Surf brands are keeping it sporty with rash guards (Oakley, Roxy, and Suboo). Designer brands give us more high-waists and see through / cut-out options (Mara Hoffman, Naila and Nicolita). The big detail this year was gold, seen in beading, hardware, jewelry and even foil printing. There was definitely an Aztec Tribal hint in almost every collection. Burnt orange, everglade, plum and brown were featured color trends often popped with yellow or hot pink. Of course we are still seeing vintage floral, stripes and dots, often being mixed and matched to create a pop retro look.

Check out all the photos and videos from Mercedes-Benz fashion week SWIM