Paraiso Miami Swim Week, widely known as Miami Swim Week, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. A unique event featuring 60 countries, it hopes to attract over 30,000 attendees and over 7,500 global buyers this season. Natalija Stojanovic, the co-founder and creative director of Paraiso Miami Swim Week, talks to FashionNetwork.com about this special edition. 

 
FashionNetwork: You’ll be celebrating your 20th anniversary at Miami Beach Swim Week in a few days’ time. What does it mean to you?
 
Natalija Stojanovic: Our 20th anniversary is a wonderful testament to the strong platform we’ve worked so hard to build for the swimwear industry. It brings me joy to not only witness our event’s growth from year to year but also to see all of the brands involved throughout the journey flourishing.

FNW: What does the swimwear market represent in the United States today?
 
N.S.: The swimwear market is overlooked but plays a vital role within the fashion industry. With the sports and swimwear market in the United States valued at over US$13 billion, it’s anticipated to experience steady growth over the next five years. Two significant shifts in people’s lifestyles are fueling this growth and increasing demand. Initially, swimsuits were primarily reserved for beach outings, with people typically indulging in one vacation annually. Nowadays, swimwear seamlessly integrates into everyday fashion, and individuals are embracing multiple tropical getaways throughout the year.
 
FNW: How do young designer brands intend to assert themselves against the big names?
 
N.S.: Everyone is on the hunt for something fresh and unique that catches the eye. Swimwear brands are competing just like ready-to-wear brands do in their market. The challenge lies in how often you can reinvent the bathing suit. It’s tough, but creativity prevails, and designers surprise us each year with new swim trends showcased on swim week runways.
 
FNW: What trends have you noticed in recent seasons?
 
N.S.: Fashion has evolved, and what was once considered standard on the runway 20 years ago isn’t anymore. Fashion shows are great for marketing, reaching industry pros, 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?
 
N.S: The fashion industry, overall, is the second-biggest polluter globally, and this includes the swimwear industry. Some brands, like Natasha Tonic, have taken sustainability to the next level by creating swimwear made from hemp, a fully biodegradable material. Others are trying to adopt as much as they can by participating in take-back programs, planting trees and corals, and using fabric made from recycled bottles.
 
FNW: What themes will you be discussing at this season’s Summer Fashion Summit?
 
N.S: Summer Fashion Summit was introduced as an educational aspect to the entirety of Miami Swim Week. Our focus will be on mastering wholesale strategies, distinguishing oneself in a saturated market, brand growth strategies, and finding the optimal balance between traditional and social media. Additionally, we’ll have presentations on trend forecasting by WGSN and Trendalytics.
 
FNW: How are brands reinventing themselves in men’s collections? 
 
N.S: I’m especially excited to see that men’s swimwear is becoming more fashion-forward, featuring bold colors, prints, and patterns.

FNW: What collaborations are swimwear brands seeking to forge today?
 
N.S: The swimwear industry is relatively young and has experienced fast growth alongside the rise of influencers. Social media loves summer and swimwear! I would say, some of the most successful collaborations we see are between celebrity influencers and swimwear brands.

FNW : What are the major events not to be missed during Miami Swim Week? 

N.S: With our Paraiso program expanding each year, now boasting over 50 fully curated events within just four days, choosing the best one to attend can be a challenge! I would highlight the fashion shows under the Paraiso fashion tent, featuring designers like Leslie Amon, Shan, Sinesia Karol, PQ Swim, Luli Fama, and Azulu. Additionally, off-site runways by Acacia, Seafolly, and Sigal are not to be missed. I also love pop-ups during swim week as they are beautifully created experiences. It’s not just about the shopping but getting to know the world of a certain brand. I can’t wait to see the one by Andrea Iyamah at Soho Beach House this year. And just to add, if you’re in the industry and looking to start a line or grow your swimwear and resort wear brand, attending the Summer Fashion Summit is a definite must.