As this year's Summer edition of Sao Paulo Fashion Week and Fashion Rio have come to a close, we take a look at the main 2013 swimwear trends seen in Brazilian collections. While a variety of cuts is still present and - yes, retro high-waist bottoms remain all the rage (at least on the runway!) - here are some other common themes in swimwear we observed from the top two Fashion Weeks in Brazil:
METALLIC THREADS & PIGMENTS
Gold threads, foil application, lurex and lamé were some of the techniques and fabrics utilized by designers to bring out the shimmer in their collection - the idea here is less emphasis on metallic hardware and more on fabrics that shine or that receive a treatment to have details that sparkle:
CROCHET & ARTISANAL TECHNIQUES
Swimsuits with artisanal touches like weaving, lace and embroidered details were present in many collections - even crochet swimwear, somewhat unpopular amongst Brazilian women - attempted a comeback at the runways:
80's INFLUENCE
Neon colors, graffiti prints, color blocking and high-cut legs (cut at or above the hip line) were also seen in many collections, evoking a flashback to the styles of the flashy 80s decade:
THE CROP TOP: MIDRIFFS IN FOCUS
Models sporting a cropped top, usually in halter form (but seen in many other shapes as well) paired with a tiny bikini bottom were almost an ubiquitous sight on Brazilian catwalks. In contrast to last year, when bikini tops were paired with fluid skirts and pants, this year, the look is a lot more casual (and may require additional sit-ups!)
PALM TREES LANDSCAPE
The image of tropical palm trees with a gradient-like, sunset effect were featured prominently in some collections, lending a bohemian feel to the ensembles. Palm leaves and trees also appeared as patterns by themselves or in cool collages:
FLOWER POWER
After a while away from mainstream Brazilian swimwear designs, flowers reappeared in some prints - surfacing in mostly delicate form, such as in small repetition patterns or soft colors:
Images: Plush Swimwear
COMMENT BELOW! Which of these swimwear trends seen on Brazilian runways are you most likely to adopt? Which trends do you think will cross-over with American swimwear designs for the 2013 resort/cruise season?
