‘Waves of Styles’ Exhibit Unveils Swimwear Evolution at HistoryMiami Museum
In anticipation of Miami Swim Week, a new exhibition titled ‘Waves of Styles’ is now open at HistoryMiami Museum, celebrating over a century of swimwear history.
A Journey Through Time
This exhibit offers an engaging look at the evolution of swimwear, illustrating how dramatically swim fashion has transformed since the 1800s. With a focus on notable moments, it explores the societal shifts surrounding swim attire through the decades.
Featured Insights from Natalia Crujeiras
Natalia Crujeiras, CEO of HistoryMiami Museum, emphasized the museum’s dual role: “We’re not only serving as guardians of Miami’s memories. We also want to document what is happening today so future generations can learn from our experiences.” This initiative reflects the museum’s commitment to preserving both historical and contemporary narratives.
The ‘Waves of Styles’ exhibit will be available for public viewing until October 5, offering visitors a deep dive into swimwear’s cultural impact over time.
Stories That Inspire Change
One noteworthy individual highlighted in the exhibit is Jane Fisher, a pioneering swimmer who challenged societal norms. Crujeiras shares, “She removed the stockings and the skirts and used one of the first form-fitting swimsuits at the beach. It was a scandal at the time, but many women followed suit.” This anecdote showcases the shifting attitudes towards women’s swimwear in history.
Contemporary Contributions
The exhibit also features modern swimwear designer Liliana Montoya, whose pieces are on display in the “The Now” section. Montoya commented, “I have to trust in the process. I am just getting really emotional here, because now I see all the puzzles getting together.”
Her latest collection, titled ‘Gaya,’ is inspired by Mother Earth and incorporates sustainable materials. Montoya’s innovative designs allow for versatility, enabling wearers to mix and match pieces for multiple looks. She stated, “If you buy two pieces bikini, you can create four looks.”
Artistry in Swimwear
Channeling her personal connection to mermaid mythology, Montoya aims to reflect Earth’s beauty through her creations. She noted, “Every time that I am designing, that I’m doing sketches, I look back to history. Because if we know our history, we understand our future.”