Elle Swimwear Collection 2006

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Cape Town Convention Centre: Some of South Africa's finest designers revealed, for the first time, their swimwear collections for Spring 2006. The Candarel presented Elle Swimwear Collection 2006, held on 14 July, featured garments created by Amanda Laird Cherry, Klûk/CGdT, Maya Prass & Stiaan Louw, Stoned Cherrie, Sun Goddess, Tracey B, JBS, Colleen Eitzen and Black Coffee - none of whom have shown swimwear ranges before.

After several seasons of itsy bitsy swimwear, says Elle fashion editor Jackie Burger, modesty reigns this summer. "We can expect slightly conservative one piece maillots, flattering tankinis and fuller bikinis. The emphasis of this trend is a more modest and functional look accessorized with short kimonos, silky shirtdresses and sheer tunics." Each participating designer had created 6 swimwear statements reflecting the mood of this trend.

Lace infused, stark and black marked Black Coffee's avant-garde take on cocktail swimwear - a step beyond modesty yet sensually inspired and appealing. In stark contrast was Colleen Eitzen's fluid collection of white, country club swimwear. Eitzen's collection communicates femininity, gentleness and a feel good freshness.

JBS is understated sexy this season with an emphasis on hiplines with cutaway one pieces and low cut bikini bottoms while Tracey B's signature halter neck one pieces hint toward a retro-look for Spring 2006.
Maya Prass and Stiaan Louw are casually pastel this season with swim and beachwear combo's.

Kluk/CGdT's metallic, figure-hugging lycra one pieces and hot pant bikinis dressed in chiffon shawls was reminiscent of Swan Lake, while Stoned Cherrie was true to form with a collection of dramatic neo-continental one pieces.

Photographer: Mark Wessels