Miami Runway Report: Shay Todd

Los Angeles designer Shay Todd closed the swim shows with her most comprehensive collection to date. Showing swimsuits, handbags and coverups that crossed the line into ready-to-wear, Todd’s Americana-inspired Resort 2007 collection offered buyers a complete look.

“I’d like to see them pack a bag with pieces they can wear from the pool to the spa and out to dinner,” the designer said. Cotton and knit dresses, printed chiffon coverups and long, slinky tunics made for a dressier silhouette, while shorts, pullover tops and hoodies presented a more casual vibe.

The idea was to “create a wearable, functional, but sexy collection that has a common thread,” Todd said.

Shiro Todd, the designer’s husband and the company’s president, hinted that the collection would continue to grow, eventually splitting into Shay Todd Swim and Shay Todd Resort.

Oversize totes in terry cloth, leather, canvas and netting complemented the line with matching prints. Todd managed to update the fanny pack with a squared, metallic version in tropical colors.

The swim collection featured some of her classic one-pieces, original prints with marine life and animal-inspired themes. Retro nautical touches showed up as anchor graphics, white and blue stripes, and sailor-girl details. —Erin Barajas