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Charlie by Matthew Zink, photo: Volker Corell

Sizzling-hot bikinis, a multitude of fashion shows, poolside parties and mojitos. It’s official, Miami Swim Week has officially exploded in South Beach, Fla. Cosmopolitan En Espanol kicked off the festivities last night with “Cosmo Summer Splash,” a cocktail party and runway show at The Setai hotel. Designers—including Ashley Paige, Charlie by Matthew Zink and Iemangá Swimwear—joined Sears and Kmart to present a range of chic options at retail and for the upcoming season. It’s just the first of a gazillion fashion shows, parties and events in Miami this year. A swimwear explosion has hit South Beach as designers, fashion show producers and trade show organizers have jumped on the bikini bandwagon. 

What started out as primarily as a single trade show in Miami has now blown up into a full-on fashion week. When the Swimwear Association of Florida decided to move the SwimShow to South Beach, it set up a chain of events that has had a ripple effect in the swim world. IMG launched Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, now in its sixth season, presenting top collections from the United States and around the world. The ambiance of South Beach, with its glamorous hotels and chic poolside locations, has inspired more to do the same.

Last year, designers such as Inca, Tyler Rose and Keva J joined the festivities by holding events at The Gansevoort and W Hotels. This year, the week has taken on a life of its own. In addition to SwimShow 2011, which runs July 17 to 20 at the Miami Convention Center, Salon Allure, a new trade show, is set to debut at the W Hotel. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, which kicks off tonight at The Raleigh with an opening party and fashion show by Trina Turk, is filled to capacity with top designers, including Cia.Marítima, Luli Fama, Mara Hoffman, Red Carter, Marysia Swim and Aqua di Lara.

In addition, Function, a Miami-based production company that produces fashion weeks in Miami and around the world, has launched a series of fashion events with high-profile brands and designers including Lamborghini, Just Cavalli, Covergirl and Sergio Rossi. RAJ Manufacturing is showing collections in the penthouse suite at The Shore Club, and brands such as Quiksilver and Ed Hardy are hosting pool parties. Several independent shows are also scheduled throughout the week at various locations in South Beach. For the full run of events, check the Apparel News calendar and stay tuned for coverage by Apparel News editors throughout the week.

Ashley Paige, photo: Volker Corell

Sears bikini and top, photo: Volker Corell

Iemanjá Swimwear bikini, photo: Volker Corell

Iemanjá Swimwear, photo: Volker Corell