On June 1, 2025, I attended the Spotlight.Fashion collective show at PARAISO Miami Swim Week, where three emerging brands—Aventura Swimwear, BOLDE Wetsuits, and Mariella Swimwear—presented collections centered around sustainability, performance, and empowerment. Each label offered a different approach to contemporary swimwear, united by a shared emphasis on purpose-driven design.

Founded by Croatian marine scientist and former officer Erik Leutar, Aventura Swimwear centers its identity around ocean conservation and technical precision. It was interesting to learn that Leutar’s experience aboard global vessels and his background in marine science directly informed his approach to fashion. The brand’s debut Signature Collection uses ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon made from fishing nets and industrial plastics. The suits are constructed in small batches along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, using double-lined Italian Lycra and finished with custom metal detailing. On the runway, the collection’s mix of rich hues like scarlet red, crystal blue, and iguana green stood out, along with printed styles like “sunset safari” and “tropical dusk.” There’s a clear emphasis on form and quality, paired with the designer’s belief that “true luxury is a reflection of identity.”

Australian shark biologist Amanda Elizabeth launched BOLDE Wetsuits with a focus on combining sustainable performance materials with thoughtful design. As someone familiar with fashion shows that often prioritize aesthetic over utility, it was refreshing to see a wetsuit brand that does both. The pieces are made from Japanese Yamamoto limestone neoprene, known for its eco-conscious properties and superior insulation and stretch. Styles included 3mm and 5mm steamers, bikini-cut spring suits, and wetsuit jackets—all with strategic paneling for fit and movement. The colors—ranging from soft turquoise and purples to clean whites and ocean blues—drew inspiration from underwater landscapes. A preview of the upcoming Honu Collection, named after the Hawaiian word for sea turtle, further reinforced the brand’s ties to marine life. Functional accessories like snorkel sets and fins rounded out the presentation.

The final presentation came from Ellie Blue, a Florida-based model and surfer whose brand, Mariella Swimwear, bridges the worlds of fashion and sport. The Crocodile Collection leaned into structured silhouettes, animal-inspired textures, and a palette that included red, green, black, yellow, and gold accents. Watching this collection move down the runway, it was clear the suits were designed for both performance and presence. All pieces are made in the U.S. using Lycra and spandex, with an emphasis on durability and fit. I also appreciated that 10% of each sale goes toward a charitable initiative supporting children in need—something that adds another layer of impact to the brand’s mission.

The Spotlight.Fashion show offered a concise yet thoughtful look at how emerging designers are rethinking swimwear with long-term purpose in mind. Each collection brought a different angle—scientific innovation, technical utility, or surf-inspired design—but all aligned with PARAISO’s ongoing mission to elevate originality and intentionality within the industry.