Miami Swim Week: Aussie models snub ‘trashy’ bikini show

Years ago, Australian models and designers dominated Miami Swim Week, however this year, local beauties and brands look to have turned their back on the week long event branded “trashy” by critics.

It’s the week-long event usually dominated by Australian models and brands, however it looks like Miami Swim Week has lost its lustre.

Top Australian swimwear models Natalie Roser, Shannon Lawson, Georgia Gibbs, Natasha Oakley, Steph Rayner, Mary Vitanaros and Sarah Kohan would never usually miss an opportunity to strut their stuff down the Miami runway in local brands, including Camilla Franks, TJ Swim, Suboo, Allerton, VDM the label, Gypsea, Kanaloa and Muchacho.

However, the Aussie models and brands seem to have snubbed the event this year.

The looks coming out of the event have been branded “trashy”, “indecent” and even “offensive” by some industry insiders with many claiming organisers have become too focused on making headlines instead of focusing on the fashion.

Looks at the event have been branded “trashy”, “indecent” and even “offensive”. Picture: Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Art Hearts Fashion

Many are saying the event has lost its lustre.

Designs have been getting racier and racier.

Wearable one-pieces and bikinis that could transition from the sun-kissed runway to the beach or pool have been replaced by astronaut helmets, capes, duct tape bikini’s and vagina floss.

“There’s no doubt designs have been getting racier and racier each year, but the images coming out of Miami Swim this week are boarding on comical,” said one insider, who did not want to be named.

“One, there’s no way anyone is going to wear those designs and two it’s made a mockery of the event which was once considered the world’s biggest swimwear show and used to be quite prestigious.”

Natalie Roser and Shannon Lawson at Bronte Beach. Picture: Tim Hunter.

A model walks the runway wearing Black Tape Project during Miami Swim Week. Picture: Arun Nevader/Getty Images for Art Hearts Fashion

Art Hearts Fashion, the company behind the annual event, seems to be pleased by the questionable coverage they are receiving, sharing articles criticising some of the swimwear on show on their social media channels.

Followers of the swimwear event have also called out designers for their “lack of body diversity”.

“Great show but where’s the variety of bodies?” one Instagram user commented.

“I’m confused. Wasn’t Victoria’s Secret’s runway shows cancelled because of the unobtainable body shapes among models? How come this fashion show can take place?,” another said.