Now that the Resort and Swim shows are complete, the industry’s 2010 trends are apparent. Beaches and pool decks alike will be doused with a touch of S.C.U.B.A, sexy and skimpy separates have a tinge of sportif, and the one-piece was cut out in all the right places. Colors of the sky reigned supreme and a little peace, love and happiness danced it’s way into many lines themes of the 70’s hippie chic. Nolcha brings you the Trend Report: Swim 2010:
Scissor Happy: The “monokini” is now attached at the bellybutton. And the placement became only more creative. Aqua di Lara, V Del Sol, BECCA Swim, Luli Fama all send a version down the runway. Emerging designer KEVA had a twist with more of an athletic tank shape and jungle palette making her take on the newly emerging popular trend truly original, while Tibi’s lilac one shoulder with the collar bone cut out would be the most acceptable to wear on a boat in the Med.
Tribe called Wet: When it comes to prints, this season is all about the ethnic tribal influence. Café Swimwear’s pareos were lovely due to their gold buckle side detail which added a well constructed luxe element. Tibi’s two pieces were cute in a preppy girl goes on vacation to the Amazon type of way. ANK gave us graphic black and white Aztec prints in both suits and cute quick cover-ups. Guess turned out a stunning cut out that had an asymmetrical shape different from anything else seen on the runway. Red Carter had a scrumptious one piece with a flattering zigzag effect that way half diva half adventurer, but it was Mara Hoffman and her homage to the indigenous lifestyle that showcased flawless after flawless patterns from her tiny triangle bikinis to her silk beaded caftans and jumpsuits.
Slow Ride: While ready-to-wear is rocking the 80’s, swimwear has a dose of Black Sabbath, a smidge of the Doors, a rockin’ riff of the Rolling Stones and a bit of Bob Marley to throw into the mix. From the big wild hair to models flashing the peace sign the 70’s took over the catwalk. There were ultra suedes and denim printed one pieces from True Religion. Guess Swimwear introduced an animal print theme that had seventies type gold stud detain. But at the peak of the trend were the fringe elements seen at Mara Hoffman and L*Space by Monica Wise. L*Space had the models in Afros with African drums but the simple stunning white v-neck one piece was 70’s updated. 
Tougher Triangles: The classic popular triangle top has a twist this season with an almost “Y” back turning the just for lounging style into a choice for girls that want to be active on the beach and in the water. Reef had a cute version and for a brand already popular with the sporty set, it will fit right in. Guess’ nautical version had the added bling of gold lame, which would make it perfect for any boater who needs to hoist the jib in style. Hurley unveiled a pleasant surprise that was equal elements of functional and feminine that wouldn’t be too bad on the tan lines.
The Wide Side: Say goodbye to the itsy bitsy teeny weenie side ties. Swim bottoms are growing at the side and shrinking at the back. Think Hanky Panky without a thong. The cinched bottom made famous by Luli Fama has come back in multiple styles for her 2010 collection, but mirror images were seen at Guess, Hurley, Tibi and True Religion and even if the ruched back was absent, the sides were still thicker, hitting the hip bone at the perfect point elongating the waist and giving an overall more flattering silhouette.
S.C.U.B.A: Seen in ready-to-wear at Phi and Proenza Schouler the scuba trend landed back home where it makes more practical sense. Brands such as Bogart Lingerie Ltd, sculpted one pieces with color blocking and high tech fabrics. Reef paired their wet suit t-shirt in bold blue (a popular color for swim 2010) with the also popular matching cut-out one piece. But Aqua Di Lara with their chic sleek neoprene creations crowned the trend with multiple styles, strong presentation, beautiful craftsmanship and a lot of sex appeal.-Lynn Furge
