It was a hot balmy night on July 6 in South Miami Beach, Florida . The SLS Hotel was packed with excited fashionistas as they awaited some of the most anticipated runway looks of the season. It was Miami Swim Week, the largest fashion week in the world for resort and swimwear collections.
The backstage was filled with half naked models running around getting ready, announcers were yelling for everyone to get dressed and hair and makeup people were hard at work doing touch ups. In that chaotic background was Gladys Scourtias designer of Maricel Marcantoni Art. She was smiling and taking it all in ready for her models to take to the catwalk to show off their latest collection based on the art of her aunt Maricel Marcantoni.
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JULY 06: Models walk the runway for Maricel Marcantoni Art at Miami Swim Week – The Shows at SLS South Beach on July 06, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Miami Swim Week – The Shows)
Maricel Marcantoni has been a Puerto Rican artist for 40 years. Her art is exhibited in locations including museums, hotels and art galleries and is famous for her cushions local to the island of Puerto Rico. Her art is inspired in the beautiful island’s landscapes and culture.
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JULY 06: Models walk the runway for Maricel Marcantoni Art at Miami Swim Week – The Shows at SLS South Beach on July 06, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Miami Swim Week – The Shows)
The Maricel Marcantoni Art brand was inspired from the Maricel Marcantoni Art Collection. The artist brings to life colors and expressions through these art pieces. Each piece is a reminder to enjoy life to the fullest through the expression of color and light. Her niece Gladys has helped her successfully expand her paintings into swim and resort wear.
“The spray of colors felt like a rainbow in the midst of rain”
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JULY 06: Gladys Scourtias, designer of Maricel Marcantoni Art at Miami Swim Week – The Shows at SLS South Beach on July 06, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Miami Swim Week – The Shows)
Although the night was postponed from rain the excitement did not diminish awaiting the newest collection. Organic vibrant colors ruled their runway with excitement. Easy to wear sundresses, colorful shirts and trunks for men made you think of a Puerto Rican sunset in the Caribbean. Plus the swimsuits felt easy to wear with their matching wraps to go from an exotic beach to a luxurious poolside resort. All 16 looks were a triumph.
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JULY 06: Models walk the runway for Maricel Marcantoni Art at Miami Swim Week – The Shows at SLS South Beach on July 06, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Miami Swim Week – The Shows)
When the last model walked, Gladys took to the stage and instead of a nonchalant wave or the classic victory bow, the designer danced her way down the runway showing the true joy of her work. When Gurus Magazine asked how she felt at the end of the show she was quoted as saying, “It was really touching to see the models enjoying and dancing as they waited their turn to walk in their favorite look. They looked happy and excited! This reminded me of why I do what I do. To bring joy and smiles to people’s faces.” Overall despite the rain the light shone bright over the Maricel Marcantoni Art Collection.
The Miami Swim Week® – The Shows showcases the best in swimwear fashion, highlighting inclusivity and sustainability. “We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting ethical and responsible fashion. This season we are opening up our platform to several emerging designers to share the stage at Miami Swim Week ” said Moh Ducis, founder & CEO of the official Miami Swim Week® The Shows. This years sponsored included Kopu, Voga Italia, Red South Beach, Masami, Smart Water/Agua Fresca, LUCYD Eyewear. TOST Beverages, Mystic Tan X Norvell, Vice Spirits, Vip Me and Showfields.
For more information:
Instagram: @maricelmarcantoniart
Website: www.maricelmarcantoniart.com
