Xtra Life Lyca Swim Spring '08

Lycra showcased its Xtra Life fabric on the runway July 11 at The Raleigh hotel for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Miami Swim in Miami Beach. Xtra Life, which debuted at last year’s Miami swim shows, boasts technology that staves off the dreaded sag and shape loss brought on by wear. The “Reality Beach”–themed event, hosted by style editor Bobbie Thomas, was kicked off by real women who volunteered to walk the runway in suits made of the specialty swim fabric. Cheered by the audience, the novice models also gave testimonials about the importance of fit and fabric in swimwear. Then, seasoned catwalk prowlers took to the runway in Xtra Life looks by 22 designers, including Betsey Johnson, Hot Tuna, Shan, Reebok, Speedo, Red Carter, Becca, Juicy Couture, La Perla and others. —Erin Barajas