Sommer

How Quente - Rio de Janeiro Fashion Week Sizzling Styles of Spring/Summer 2007

On June 10th and 11th, Brazil’s freshest design talent spiced up the runways at The Fifth Edition of Rio Moda Hype (referred to as RMH by in-the-know Brazilians). Sizzling collections for spring and summer 2007 were presented in a sun-dappled procession of events called Lounge Beach. Fashion shows were held at the Marina da Gloria in Rio de Janeiro, where twelve fresh-as-summer-fruit designers presented fifteen looks in the 600-seat Salao Copacabana.

Each designer was instructed to create looks based on this year’s fluid theme: water. Designers were specifically told to conjure up images of seawater and beaches as they cut, draped and sewed fit-for-a-mermaid creations. The theme was chosen as a natural extension of RMH’s surroundings; “the beach spirit and energy follow Cariocas everywhere,” said Robert Guimaraes, General Director of the events.

The focus of this year’s fashion week was presenting bathing suits, sarongs and swimming trunks in away-from-the-beach situations like glam cocktail bashes or even the gym, where we’re told Brazilian beauties sport bikini tops instead of ratty tees.

The designers of the RMH’s surf-ready fripperies include: Athria Gomez, Charllotte,
Despi Poppe, Soul Seventy, Tear Gas, Flesh Beck Crew, Madre Santa and Felipe Eiras.

Prior to these shows, fashionistas enjoyed Rio de Janeiro Fashion Week from June 6 - 11th, where 44 of Brazil's finest also showcased their sizzling collections for Spring/Summer 2007, including Colcci where we spotted übermodel Giselle Bündchen strutting her stuff as the opening number in a cream dress with pocket detailing. It was so fluid-with-movment we can't help but think every designer was inspired by water this season. Sommer, whose backdrop made us feel very Rio with the breathtaking views of the city brought out a collection full of charisma and Brazilian charm equipped with mood music that made us want to rumba in the jungle. To view the looks mentioned here and more click here.

Shop Brazil: One of our favorite Brazilian stores stateside is SolePassion, which is now stocking famed designer Rosa Cha, among Euro-Latin pieces, all at an affordable price. Owner Hevila Bajaj makes regular trips to Rio and Sao Paulo fashion weeks to stock the latest in Brazilian fashion for her store, located at 1745 North Clybourn Ave. in Chicago. For accessories so quente you'll be steaming up the streats RioStyle, visit their kiosk at 520 N. Michigan Ave. For the recent fashion show click here.

- by Jennifer Berg and Melissa Maynard