Australian swimwear designers taking over Miami Swim event

A record number of Australian designers and models will take part in the world’s top swimwear fashion event when Miami Swim Week kicks off in the US on Thursday.

• Muriel star surfing all the way to top with dream role
• The stars who have given up booze for good

Watch out Miami, it’s the great Aussie cossie invasion.

A record number of our designers and models will take on the world’s top swimwear fashion event when Miami Swim Week kicks off in the US on Thursday.

Like Paris for couture, Miami Swim is regarded as the most prestigious event for swimwear designers, often resulting in new international contracts.

Sonya Swim founder Sonya Mefaddi, who appeared on My Kitchen Rules last year and is set to unveil her label this week, said Aussies are taking over the event.

“We have some of the best beaches in the world and our beach culture is a big part of the Aussie lifestyle and we love spending time by the beach,” Mefaddi said.

Models Natalie Roser and Shannon Lawson are both taking part in Miami Swim. Picture: Tim Hunter

“Designers experiment with not only colours but styles and aren’t scared to break the rules. “Aussie models do particularly well for the same reasons and I think internationally everyone looks at Australia as leading the way in the swim and fashion space.”

MORE FROM BRIANA DOMJEN:

Celebs ditch social media for their own apps

Low-rating Sunday Night on the chopping block

Natalie Roser is preparing for her fourth swim week.

“I love the energy and seeing all the new bikini trends,” the Sydney-born, Los Angeles-based model said

“It really is one of the most important weeks on the calendar for both swimwear models and designers.”

Models Natalie Roser and Shannon Lawson are looking forward to showing Aussie designs at Miami Swim. Picture: Tim Hunter

Model Shannon Lawson, who will also be taking to the catwalk at the event, said it comes as no surprise Australian brands and models are taking over the Miami runway.

“Growing up in an Australian culture means we live in swimsuits and make memories around our summer holidays,” Lawson said.

“We layer our swimsuits and style them with other garments to create a whole look.

“Swimwear to us is an entire outfit. We live in a bathing suit all day long and need several over the summer. We are conscious of fabrics, UV, sizing and performance.

“I think we cover a lot of categories really well. I guess that’s why the US loves us.”

Among the established and emerging local labels showcasing their designs are designers TJ Swim, Lahana Swim, Vincija Swim, VDM the Label, Lil & Emm, Nookie Beach, Sage Swim and Sonya Swim.