MIAMI FASHION WEEK: Poko Pano 2015

Splish splash. Poko Pano 2015 kicked off the first fashion show of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim right in the pool.  The famed historic swimming pool of the Raleigh Hotel in South Beach was a gorgeous setting for models to splash through with the collection.

Unfortunately, it was not ideal for the photographers who, like me just flew into the city.  One photographer started by dropping her batteries in the water.  The lack of an official photographer’s pit meant that everyone tried to find a spot around the pool without being in someone else’s shot.  I ended halfway up a tree and between spiky bushes.  Um, fun.

Still, the setting still managed to soothe the crankiness of the shooters.  The swimwear itself was wearable and pretty.  The look of models splashing through water instead of the stiletto-heeled catwalk strut was a refreshing change.  The dewy, bronzed look was fresh and appropriate for an afternoon in the water.

Brazilian designer Paola Robba created this

season’s collection with the passion of Rio de Carnival and pride in her country’s team at the FIFA World cup. There were pieces that had an arts and crafts influence using a technique similar to a hand woven rag rug.  There were high-waisted bikini bottoms for a retro feel that suited the location.  Graphic tropical prints expressed her love for the warm location. 

The Poko Pano 2015 collection succeeded in giving you an escape to South America.  The swimwear itself is perfect when you make that escape a reality.

photos by Mariana Leung