Sexy Swimwear On The Runway On South Beach

MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- Just when you thought it couldn't get any hotter, welcome to the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim on South Beach.

Sexy, bikini-clad models will show the latest looks from designers around the world. This week is to swimwear designers what the Paris fashion shows are to haute couture.

The five-day event boasts a variety of fashion and trade shows, parties and satellite events which fill hotel rooms and restaurants.

More than 7,500 people are expected to attend the industry-only SwimShow trade show at the Miami Beach Convention Center where nearly 400 vendors represent nearly 2,500 lines. Swimwear accessories, like beach bags, hats, sandals, and cover-ups will also be displayed.

Among the expected trends this year: more one-pieces and high-waisted suits or "midkinis," lots of flowery and animal prints, crochet and macramé, plus new children's lines.

In addition to the SwimShow trade show, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim is setting up two massive tents outside the Raleigh Hotel in South Beach to host five days of invitation-only fashion shows and events. Now in its eighth year, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim will be showcasing 32 international designers from 11 countries.

Satellite shows are also setting up at other South Beach hotels.

Designers say the shows will set the trends for what you will see on the beaches in the very near future.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim officially kicks off Thursday night at The Raleigh on South Beach and runs through Sunday. For a schedule of events and much more, visit the Fashion Week Swim web site.