See our top 10 Swim Week shows and Swim Week events that are open to the public.
In fashion, pretty much anything goes, especially if Lady Gaga has anything to say about it: puppets, meat, bubbles, underwear (literally) as outerwear. And we all know attendees of Ultra Music Festival create their own own dress code: furry boots, knee-high rainbow socks, short shorts with bikini tops, and plenty of neon.
Swimwear designer Lila Nikole Rivera went to her first UMF this past year, and felt inspired by all of those bright colors.
"I loved the energy of the people, the amazing light shows, and stage performances," she says.
Riding on the coattails of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, Rivera (known simply by her brand moniker, Lila Nikole) is hosting her Ultra-inspired swim collection, Electrika, with DJs and modeling by the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders. And it's open to the public.
We caught up with the designer to talk inspiration, growing up in South Florida, and involving the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders. Preview two pieces from her collection after the jump.
Cultist: What inspired you to create an Ultra Music Festival-inspired swim collection?
Lila Nikole Rivera: This was my first time going to UMF. I heard so many great things about it, so I decided to see for myself. I LOVED the energy of the people, the amazing light shows and stage performances. I felt inspired and came home and started sketching.
What does that entail, exactly? What about UMF inspired you?
The people! The energy was so full of life. Everyone was dancing and have a great time. It was a blend of personalities, cultures, and different fashion styles.
Did UMF have any involvement with the collection at all? Do they know it exists?
No, they were not involved in this project.
How did you get the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders involved?
I created some custom swimwear pieces for the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders, as well as provided pieces for this year's calendar. They are a great organization with such beautiful girls. I thought it would be a great idea to collaborate with them and have a show with our home town superstars.
You grew up in South Florida. Where, exactly? What about Miami inspires you to keep designing?
I lived in Fort Myers as well as Fort Lauderdale. I love living in South Florida. It's a melting pot of so many cultures and people from all over the world. We have beautiful beaches -- perfect for beautiful swimwear!
What's next for your brand?
I would like to expand the collection into resortwear, children's wear and matching accessories.
Electrika Swim Fashion Show Preview, presented by the RedBull Sound Stage. Friday, July 20 at 8 p.m. At Bamboo, 550 Washington Avenue. Must RSVP at: [email protected].
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