By Bianca Lambert
Published on June 24, 2026
Attending Miami Swim Week sounded like a dream—sunshine, beautiful resort wear, and some of the most exciting swimwear collections in the industry. But stepping into a city where showing skin is part of the culture also brought up some complicated feelings for me.
As someone living with fibroids and the body changes that came with them, including persistent bloating and what I jokingly call my “fibroid belly,” swimwear has not always felt easy. After surgeries, hormonal treatments, and years of navigating changes in my shape, I’ve had moments where getting dressed felt less like self-expression and more like trying to hide.
So when I received an invitation to attend Paraiso Miami Swim Week, I felt both excited and nervous. Wearing swimwear in a place where fashion celebrates confidence meant confronting some of those insecurities head-on.
But while preparing my looks, something unexpected happened: I started having fun again.
Instead of focusing on what I wanted to cover, I focused on what I loved. I paired bikini tops with oversized silk pants, layered button-down shirts over swimsuits, styled wrap skirts, and experimented with dresses that made me feel elegant and comfortable.
A woman wearing a patterned swimsuit with jewelry and a head scarf.
The experience reminded me that style is not about waiting until your body changes to wear the clothes you love. It’s about finding pieces that work with your body today.
These four swimwear and resort brands helped me feel confident, stylish, and completely myself throughout Miami Swim Week.
1. Melissa Odabash
A leopard print outfit featuring a bikini top, button-down shirt, and pants.
Leopard print has always been one of my favorite fashion choices, so Melissa Odabash immediately caught my attention. But what impressed me most wasn’t just the bold print—it was how thoughtfully the pieces were designed.
The matching pants worked beautifully with my curves, while the leopard triangle bikini top provided something that many swimwear pieces overlook: support. The adjustable double-string design allowed me to customize the fit, making the top feel secure without sacrificing style.
I received so many compliments wearing this look, but the best part was how comfortable I felt. It reminded me that supportive swimwear can still feel glamorous and fashion-forward.
Shop the look:
- Melissa Odabash Paige Cheetah Shirt
- Melissa Odabash Olivia Cheetah Trousers
- Melissa Odabash Girona Cheetah Bikini Top
2. Sigal
A colorful watercolor-inspired resort look featuring a wrap skirt and swimwear.
Sigal quickly became one of my favorite discoveries during Swim Week. Founded by Venezuelan designer Sigal Cohen Wolkowiez, the brand is known for hand-painted prints created with watercolor and ink, making every piece feel artistic and unique.
I was initially unsure about wearing a wrap mini skirt because fitted waistlines can sometimes feel restrictive. But the design surprised me. The adjustable construction allowed me to customize the fit, and the internal closures helped everything stay perfectly in place.
The side slit became one of my favorite details because it highlighted my legs and created a flattering silhouette. Pairing the skirt with a matching bikini and an oversized button-down made the outfit transition effortlessly from runway shows to poolside lunches.
Even after a full day of eating, walking, and attending events, I felt comfortable and confident.
Shop the look:
- Sigal Printed Button-Down Shirt
- Sigal Wrap Mini Skirt
- Sigal Printed Bikini Top
3. Luli Fama Miami
A flowing halter dress styled with jewelry and accessories.
I had admired Luli Fama online before, but I had never personally tried the brand. Swimwear sizing can feel intimidating, especially when you’re unfamiliar with how a brand fits, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.
For the brand’s Miami Swim Week show, I chose the Halter Ring Long Dress—and I immediately understood why the brand has such a strong following.
The adjustable halter design provided the support I needed, while the fabric moved beautifully with my body. The dress didn’t hide my shape, and that was exactly the point. My body was visible, but I still felt confident, polished, and beautiful.
I even hesitated before sharing photos because they didn’t represent a perfectly edited version of myself. But embracing those moments felt more meaningful. Confidence doesn’t require perfection.
The dress also ran true to size, making the fit experience even easier.
Shop the look:
- Luli Fama Halter Ring Long Dress
- Statement jewelry and accessories
4. Shan
A luxurious silk resort set styled over swimwear.
Shan gave me the exact feeling I imagine when I picture effortless resort dressing: elegant, relaxed, and completely put together.
The brand’s silk leopard shirt and matching pants instantly elevated a simple black bikini. The lightweight fabric felt luxurious while still staying cool in Miami’s heat.
The flexible waistband made the pants especially comfortable throughout the day, and the flowing silhouette offered subtle coverage while still feeling stylish.
When I attended the Shan runway show, I buttoned the silk shirt, added the matching belt, and instantly felt dressed up without losing that effortless vacation energy.
Sometimes the best beach outfits aren’t about covering up—they’re about adding pieces that make you feel amazing.
Shop the look:
- Shan Silk Leopard Shirt
- Shan Silk Straight-Leg Pants
Final Thoughts
My biggest takeaway from Miami Swim Week wasn’t about finding the perfect swimsuit. It was realizing that confidence comes from how we choose to show up for ourselves.
Bodies change. Sizes change. Our relationship with fashion changes, too. But personal style doesn’t disappear.
Swimwear is not about having a certain body type—it’s about finding pieces that allow you to feel comfortable, expressive, and confident. Whether you prefer a full-coverage look, a bold bikini, or something in between, the best outfit is always the one that makes you feel like yourself.
