MIAMI BOUND
Los Angeles Swimwear Maker Belusso to Make Colorful Splash in Miami
Inspired by the luxe beaches and resort lifestyle of the French Riviera and coastal Florida, Belusso was established six years ago in Los Angeles.
The label’s suits, known as “Lusso” by its customers, are embellished with 14-karat gold and semiprecious stones such as turquoise, carnelian, citrine and coral.
With an uncompromising eye for fit, head designer Kirsten Ehrig-Sarkisian uses only luxurious fabrics sourced from European mills. All pieces are then designed and sewn in Los Angeles, where Ehrig-Sarkisian is able to manage production and quality control while keeping labor stateside.
“Belusso tunics and coverups are always made from the best imported silks, cottons and cotton voiles from Italy and around the world,” said Ehrig-Sarkisian. “The designs are more fashion than beach and are certainly not an afterthought thrown into a swim collection, as happens so often with swimwear companies.”
The design inspiration for Belusso’s current collection showing in Miami began with the beauty of dark-colored feathers. “Upon first look, they may look simply black. However, there are layers of color on each that create a depth that feels rich and luxurious,” explained Ehrig-Sarkisian.
The name Belusso was inspired by a private tour that the swimwear designer took of Steve McQueen’s automobile collection. Ehrig-Sarkisian said she fell in love with one car in particular—the Lusso Berlinetta. When she found out that “lusso” means “luxury” in Italian, she knew she was close to the perfect name for her swimwear label. Then she added the letters “bel” from the word “belezza,” which is Italian for beauty.
The current collection of 45 pieces includes bikinis, one-piece suits, rash guards, sarongs, shorts, pants, tunics, dresses and tops. The collection’s wholesale prices range from roughly $80 to $140.
Belusso will be showing in Miami at the Cabana trade show. Its runway show will take place at the Oasis Tent at the Raleigh Hotel on July 20 at 7 p.m.
For more information, visit www.belusso.com.
