Shay Todd Swim Spring '08

Shay Todd, best known for designing the sexy swimsuits worn in the oh, so sexy television appearances of Paris Hilton and Eva Longoria, went 1960s glam for her collection. Todd, who recently opened her eponymous retail store in Manhattan Beach, Calif., showed her collection for the third consecutive season at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Miami Swim on July 13. Todd said the collection was originally inspired by 1960s interior-design textiles. The collection then morphed into the late-’60s glam era of French New Wave cinema with inspiration from French, Italian and American starlets. She added a hint of 1970s chic, a touch of 1980s and a dose of modernity to complete the look. Models walked the runway with big coifed hair, exotic accessories and bright jewel tones such as emerald and hot pink with splashes of gold. She used metallic foils on colorful swimwear reminiscent of the mod ’60s and paired them with brocade shorts, jackets and handbags. Suits came in bright floral prints, colorful solids and modern bold geometric prints. Lacquered bamboo hardware, glossy finishes and bright neon colors recalled the ’80s. Todd continued to add sportswear to her collection, including a zipper tunic in a foiled Modal jersey, a strapless top and sweat pant in a dusty pink terry and a magenta silk dress with a jeweled neckline. —N. Jayne Seward