MILAN, Sep 22, 2007/ FW/ --- Sexy and dressy, Miss Bikini LUXE debuted on the catwalk today at the Milano Fashion Center with Naomi Campbell opening and closing the show as Alessandra & Francesca Piacentini, the design duo behind the Miss Bikini label upped the ante on swimwear with luxury in mind.

As a rule, it is very hard to come up with innovations in swimwear. The designer has to work with a very limited ‘piece of cloth’ in a manner of speaking. Added to that, how many ways can someone cut a bikini, a bandeau or a one-piece suit?

But, Alessandra and Francesca Piacentini were not daunted. Using prints, beads and couture elements, the design duo made a big splash today in Milan with the launch of Miss Bikini’s LUXE collection with Naomi Campbell gracing the catwalk.

Swimsuits are swimsuits; and they are inherently sexy. By adding beads and glitter, the Piacentinis changed lounging at the pool and sunbathing in the beach a whole new ballgame.

And before you ask, ‘are those beads and sequins waterproof?’ let us just say that more than half of them looked like they could, while the rest belong to the ‘unsure’ category.

Perhaps, some of them were just created for the runway. On the other hand, the styling proposed that the more elaborate pieces can actually be worn as underwear for a see-through dresses that are perfect for beach parties and cruises, even those romantic evenings in a yacht.

Because, one great thing about this collection is that the Piacentinis created wraps and covers that can actually be worn as dresses. Of course, they are not appropriate on the street. But, imagine being in a cruise or vacationing at the Rivieras or the Hamptons next summer. A beaded bikini worn under a chiffon kaftan during a beach party is totally appropriate.

The collection which is entitled ‘Tribal Pop’ in reference to the African and geometric prints used throughout the collection is bold and daring. The press notes described it as having ‘an intriguing and distinctive personality,’ which in actuality is an apt description.

So, if a cruise or the beach is on your agenda next summer, don’t forget to bring a Miss Bikini bikini (double use of the noun intended!). You don’t know what party you might get invited to!

Miss Bikini

Miss Bikini

Miss Bikini

Miss Bikini