FOUNDER’S TAKE No.1
NATALIJA DEDIC STOJANOVIC | MIAMI BEACH | 9.4.24
On a sun-soaked May morning in Miami Beach, the city buzzed with the energy of Swim Week. PARAISO had just kicked off its 20th edition the night before, and despite the lingering echoes of the festivities, my mind was already racing ahead — a blessing and a curse of a restless mind. The vibrant chaos of Swim Week was in full swing.
Christie Brinkley gracing the legendary Cosmopolitan swimsuit cover in 1977
As I zipped between events — watching runway shows by Seafolly, PQ Swim, and Leslie Amon, and discussing dazzling new collections with Ivy, a senior buyer at Anthropologie — I reflected on what 20 years of Swim Week feels like. From my early, enthusiastic yet terrifying days of dressing models myself while pregnant with my second child, to brainstorming with the always-stylish Keith Baptista (creator of standout shows for Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Chanel), and indulgent Sant Ambroeus meetings in NY with my dear work-friend Chelsey, formerly of IMG Fashion I’ve witnessed the evolution of this event from its humble beginnings to its current grandeur. Yet, amid the glamour, Swim Week remains a celebration of innovation, creativity, and community that stands together, an ever-unfolding story.
Immersed in this vibrant world, it's impossible not to draw inspiration from those strong women who paved the way, like Christie Brinkley gracing the legendary Cosmopolitan swimsuit cover in 1977. Dressed in Norma Kamali’s daring pull-up bikini, Christie made history with her bold choice to wear the suit high on her hips — a move that was revolutionary, provocative, and undeniably sexy. That cover wasn’t just a magazine feature; it was a game-changing shift that catapulted everyone involved into the limelight. The moment of a woman fully in control of her choices — something quite rare before the rise of second-wave feminism in the 1970s — and mirrors the pride and progress we've achieved. But progress can sometimes feel both effortless and elusive. Recent body-shaming of swimwear muse Iskra Lawrence, who walked the runway six months pregnant, reminds us that new times bring new challenges. In an industry largely led by women, my role is both a privilege and a responsibility.
One thing is certain: my mission is clear. By sharing stories, trends, and conversations, I aim to extend the four-day celebration of Paraiso Miami Swim Week throughout the year. Each month, my newsletter will provide updates on the upcoming 2025 Paraiso Miami Swim Week, explore emerging trends, and offer a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving world of fashion. Thank you for joining me on this journey — I look forward to your thoughts and feedback as this newsletter evolves.
