This July I visited Swim Miami Week to catch the top swimwear trends of 2017 -2018 and to see what many will be wearing this season and next.  Shows took place at several locations in Miami including the 'W' South Beach, the Miami Convention Center and The Vintro Hotel tent.

Swim Miami Week is a prestigious collection of runway shows running parallel with the swimwear industry’s largest trade shows during Miami Swim Week. The event provides runway platforms for designer swimwear and resort collections as well as exposure to international media, buyers, influencers, and celebrities. SWIMMIAMI is the premier destination for swimwear industry insiders to mix and mingle with daytime wellness activities, presentation shows, and parties.

Each evening featured some of the swim industry's hottest brands. The following are 3 of the top Swimwear Trends of 2017 - 2018. 

HIGH WAIST - HIGH CUT
The retro swim bottoms that have been a widely popular trend get an update from the Hot-As-Hell runway collections displaying stand out bathing suit pieces, including a suspender clad high-waisted corset bikini and an ultra high-cut one-piece inspired by Birds of a Feather. Likewise, Audrina Patridge's designer collection, Prey Swim has inspired with classic prints and gingham once again. 

FESTIVAL
Ruffles and vibrant colors brought by Sylvia Ulson's Brazilian swimsuit line, titled Cruise 2018, were urban hip.  Icons of music and street-style are primary influences for Sylvia brand.  Her 2017 - 2018 Swimsuit collection offers a glamorous yet fun vibe without compromising femininity. Festival inspired swimwear styles are a must-pack for your next tropical resort vacation.  

SHOULDER
Swimsuit styles created to accentuate the shoulders were seen on reversible suit designs from KOA Swimwear, plus Montce and Sports Illustrated. Just as off shoulder tops remain highly sought this season, the next time you shop for new swimwear look for both the two piece and one piece bathing suits with cap or ruffled sleeve details to stay on trend. Keep an eye out for this look; it brings a first-class yet sexy feel to the pool lounge. 

Speaking of options, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit proved swimsuit style is for everyone! Showcasing alluring swimwear for every woman of every height, size, and shape SIS delivered. Presenting a refreshing show with curvy, tall and petite models, SI demonstrated there is a swimsuit to make every woman feel beautiful.

As I prepared myself to go to Miami Swim Week's shows and events, I took a mini shopping cruise through a few Tampa Bay Boutiques so that I could share Tampa's city style with Miami. 

See what I wore during Swim Week above:  Right to left: Sweet Southern Chic, Deborah Kent's, A. Haley Boutique. Also, visit my summer shopping guide in Tampa  Fashion | Where To Find 2017 Summer Style in Tampa.  Register above to stay connected and visit my 813area profile to find more information about Style, Fashion, and Shopping in Tampa (Swim Miami Week Image credits: Getty Images - Frazer Harrison, Rodrigo Varela)