Miami Swim Cruise 13:Rica Swimwear

Rica Swimwear showcased its Cruise ’13 collection at the Lifestyle Retreat Lounge at the Shelborne South Beach on July 21 during Miami Swim Week. The low-key presentation included 10 looks from the 27-piece collection. For its second season, designer Ava Sanjurjo said she wanted to take the brand to a more sophisticated level with construction, color and style. The collection was modern in bold colors with intricate cutouts such as a circle on the stomach of a blue maillot and a color-blocked one-piece with a mesh midriff. Colorful coordinating robes and dresses complemented the collection. Sanjurjo said she was inspired by luxury, photography and fashion icons of the ’80s and ’90s. “I’m obsessed with pop culture and photography,” said the designer. “I looked at a lot of Herb Ritts photography for line and symmetry. … I’m very into fashion photography of the ’90s. I had a good time looking at Helmut Newton—all those greats. Tina Chow is also an inspiration for me this season as far as making something so simple but elegant at the same.”

—N Jayne Seward

For a complete fashion slide show click here.