Miami, U.S.: This weekend, ProColombia, the country's promotion agency, will showcase 27 Colombian brands at Miami Swim Week, the largest global swimwear trade event. Participating in two major shows, The Cabana Swim Show and the Swim Show x WGSN, Swim Lab, these brands will present swim and resort wear, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and handcrafted items.
Their participation highlights Colombia's thriving fashion industry, known for its focus on sustainable and cultural initiatives. As the fourth-largest exporter of swimwear in Latin America and the Caribbean, Colombia is a significant trade partner for the United States and Mexico.
Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, stated that: "Miami Swim Week provides an invaluable platform for Colombian brands to showcase the diversity and quality of our fashion industry on an international stage. Our presence at this event highlights the innovative designs and sustainable practices that define Colombia’s fashion industry. We are proud to support these talented companies as they expand their global footprint, promoting not only their unique products but also the cultural heritage and craftsmanship that Colombia is renowned for."
In 2023, Colombia's fashion industry exports reached USD $948.2 million, with swimwear exports totaling USD $22.5 million, reaching more than 60 international destinations. The main export destinations in the past year were the United States (59.3% share, USD $13.3 million), Mexico (7.6%, USD $1.7 million), and Peru (3.8%, USD $864,004). Over 140 Colombian companies export swimwear, 96% of which are Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MiPymes).
Spotlight on Colombia’s Swim Week's Must-See Brands: The Cabana Swim Show in Miami Beach is an event where retailers and brands converge to display diverse products, including swimwear, resort wear, accessories, and more. This weekend, 17 Colombian brands will be a part of the trade show, each one offering a unique blend of quality, craftsmanship, sustainability, and cultural heritage.
Among these brands are MOLA MOLA, specializing in beachwear designed by and for women, and SEA SALT, renowned for handmade swimwear crafted with care. ONDADEMAR brings a taste of the Colombian summer lifestyle to the forefront.
On the other hand, ENCANTADORE integrates sustainable fabrics and technologies into their packaging and garments, while ARTE Y TEJIDO, founded by a group of women artisans, specializes in crafting Colombian Mochilas using crochet techniques with natural and artificial fibers, including leather.
NAJASH brings exquisite Wayuu mochilas from the Embera Chami Kamsa community. KIBYS presents a stunning collection of swimwear and lingerie, while PQ SWIM, a woman-owned company, offers a sophisticated line of cabana swim and resort wear.
Other notable participants include BOAMAR, AGUA BENDITA, KLEID, MISHKY, ANCORA, KAANAS, BAOBAB, XIMENA CASTILLO, and MPM.
Maria Piedad Mercado, the designer behind MPM, emphasizes the brand's commitment to sustainability and elegance, stating, "Our collection reflects a minimalist and timeless approach, showcasing durable and versatile garments that prioritize sustainability and comfort. Our presence at international events strengthens Colombia's image as an innovative and high-quality fashion destination. Additionally, by exporting fashion, MPM promotes economic growth and job creation in the country, establishing itself as a significant player in the global fashion market”.
Furthermore, Swim Show x WGSN presents Swim Lab, providing a platform for emerging designers to showcase their innovative designs. This year, 10 Colombian brands will seize this opportunity to exhibit their products and concepts to potential buyers and industry professionals.
From sustainable fabrics to dresses with social impact, the Colombian brands at Swim Lab represent a fusion of creativity and consciousness. Notable participants include FIORI BEACH AND STREET, MAR DE LUA, CORPO, DULZAMARA, OLA AZUL, PEPITA AND ME, OFFCORS, CASTELLANO ETHNIC, TURCUA, and MILONGA.
Daniela Castellanos, Founder of Castellano Ethnic shares her excitement about the event, stating, "This year, Castellano blends ancestral Wayuu weaving techniques with the sparkle of Swarovski crystals, creating handcrafted pieces that celebrate Colombian artisans."
With their innovative designs and dedication to preserving indigenous craftsmanship, Colombian brands continue to impact the global fashion landscape significantly.
