Miami Swim Week celebrates its 20th anniversary

Paraiso Miami Swim Week, widely known as Miami Swim Week, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. A unique event in which 60 countries will participate and is expected to attract more than 30,000 attendees and more than 7,500 global buyers this season. Natalija Stojanovic, co-founder and creative director of Paraiso Miami Swim Week, talks to FashionNetwork.com about this special edition.

FashionNetwork: In a few days you will celebrate your 20th anniversary at Miami Beach Swim Week. What does it mean to you?

Natalija Stojanovic: Our 20th anniversary is a wonderful testament to the strong platform we have worked so hard to build for the swimsuit industry. I am happy to not only witness the growth of our event year after year, but also to see all the brands involved flourish along the journey.

FNW: What does the swimsuit market in the United States represent today?

NS: The swimsuit market is overlooked, but it plays a vital role within the fashion industry. With the sports and swimwear market in the United States valued at over $13 billion, it is expected to see steady growth over the next five years. Two significant changes in people's lifestyles are driving this growth and increasing demand. Initially, swimsuits were reserved primarily for beach outings, and people typically took one vacation a year. Nowadays, swimsuits fit seamlessly into everyday fashion and people opt for multiple tropical getaways throughout the year.

FNW: How do young designer brands intend to prevail against the big names?

NS: Everyone is looking for something new and unique that catches their attention. Swimwear brands compete just as ready-to-wear brands do in their market. The challenge lies in how often the swimsuit can be reinvented. It's difficult, but creativity prevails and designers surprise us every year with new swimming trends showcased on the swim week catwalks.

FNW: What trends have you noticed in recent seasons?

NS: Fashion has evolved and what was once considered standard on the runway 20 years ago is no longer standard. Fashion shows are great for marketing, reaching industry professionals, buyers, media, influencers, and consumers. Designers present collections that connect with their audience and reflect their values. Promoting wellness and health should be a goal for everyone, regardless of size.

FNW: Swimwear is one of the most polluting clothing industries. How are brands adapting to sustainability issues?

NS: The fashion industry, in general, is the second most polluting industry in the world, and this includes the swimsuit industry. Some brands, like Natasha Tonic, have taken sustainability to the next level by creating swimsuits made from hemp, a completely biodegradable material. Others are trying to embrace as much as they can by participating in give-back programs, planting trees and corals, and using fabrics made from recycled bottles.

FNW: What topics will you discuss at this season's Summer Fashion Summit?

NS: Summer Fashion Summit was presented as an educational aspect of the entire Miami Swim Week. Our focus will be on mastering wholesale strategies, distinguishing yourself in a saturated market, brand growth strategies and finding the optimal balance between social and traditional networks. Additionally, we will have presentations on trend forecasting from WGSN and Trenalytics.

FNW: How are brands reinventing themselves in men's collections?

NS: I'm especially excited to see that men's swimwear is becoming more fashion-forward and featuring bold colors, prints and patterns.

FNW: What collaborations are swimwear brands looking to forge today?

NS: The swimsuit industry is relatively young and has seen rapid growth along with the rise of influencers. Social media loves summer and swimsuits! I would say some of the most successful collaborations we see are between influential celebrities and swimwear brands.

FNW: What are the top events not to miss during Miami Swim Week?

NS: With our Paraiso program expanding every year, now featuring over 50 fully curated events in just four days, choosing the best event to attend can be a challenge! I would highlight the shows under the Paraíso fashion tent, with designers such as Leslie Amon, Shan, Sinesia Karol, PQ Swim, Luli Fama and Azulu. Also, the outer slopes of Acacia, Seafolly and Sigal are not to be missed. I also love the pop-ups during swim week as they are beautifully created experiences. It is not just about buying but about getting to know the world of a certain brand. I can't wait to see Andrea Iyamah's at Soho Beach House this year. And just to add, if you are in the industry and want to start a line or grow your swimwear and resort wear brand, attending the Summer Fashion Summit is definitely a must.