DC SWIM WEEK RECAP

Kayla Allen
Aug 1, 2018
3 min read

Vibes’ is a common word used today to describe a feeling you get from being in a particular place. The 4th Annual 2018 DC Swim Week gave us all types of vacation vibes. Friday’s Resort Collection and Saturday’s Genesis Swimwear show provided the feel as if you were traveling the world. The 3-day show was located at the Embassy of France in the U.S. Their reception area was filled with sponsors and vendors whose products contributed to the “vacation vibe” feel. Lalalu Mexican Art carried unique colorful accessories while Peroni Italy served samples of their refreshing beer at their entertaining beach style photo booth #PeroniMoments.

Models, designers, celebrities and fans took over the red carpet in their picture ready attires as photographers made them shine with their cameras. Hosts of the Resort Collection show, Mrs. District of Columbia Leiah Rocheleau, looked fabulous in her eye dazzling black and white Dur Doux design two-piece. The 200 estimated attendees all came dressed to impress displaying their individual styles; the Fashionistas/Fashionisters were definitely in the building. We caught up with Palmera Beachwear designer Renee’ Lopez before the show. Lopez emphasized that serenading, moods, and a special someone all while on a beach setting embodies Palmera Beachwear. Following the pre-red carpet photo ops and networking, designers from all over the world were ready to showcase their Spring/Summer 2019 collections at the first show of the week: The Resort Collection. This show included Swimwear, Active wear, Lingerie and Accessories hosted by Mrs. District of Columbia along side special guest model Mrs. USA 2017 Lauren Zeigler. The models worked their designer’s clothes to the max with no flaw in sight! This 16 plus designer showcase also had a live performance by ballet dancer Kimberley Thompson whose flexibility and grace kept all eyes on her mid show. There was also a history making moment by creator and designer of Fury Intimates Jennifer Waters. Fury Intimates is the first ever intimates collection to be featured at DC Swim week. “I am very excited about being the first one, I think being edgy, fashion forward and black/melanated really helps” Waters expressed. Jennifer’s lingerie line was very different from the usual flower design lingerie. She incorporated masks, faux leather and lace that made it all pretty at the same time. The inspiration for her summer collection is from new movie Atomic Blonde and Black Panther partly inspired. “Women that are kicking butts!” Jennifer emphasized in her conclusion. Night two was special as it was a sold out finale affair! The Genesis Swimwear show hosted by Renee Allen with guest of honor Miss USA 2017 Kara McCullough brought back out the hottest designers in the world. Exclusive VIP Swag bag sponsors including: Rove Eyewear and Balmain Paris Hair Couture filled 1st row seats with gifts. The 16 plus international designers released their Spring/Summer 2019 swimwear collections with “vacation vibes” still lingering throughout the night. Italian beachwear brand I Maladrini brought out the men in their culture and folklore enhanced trunks.

The 3-day show ended with a fun filled after party at L2 Lounge. Live performance by hiphop and electronic music artist Born I Music along side his official Dj Boss Player kept the energy up during the night. Founder of DC Swim Week Moh Ducis also made his appearance and celebrated a successful show with participating models and guests. 2018 DC Swim week was a refreshing star-studded experience. The beautiful vacation atmosphere created from the music, décor, venue, and people really played a large part in ensuring an enjoyable time. Looking forward to next year’s vibes!