Alexis Swimwear 2009: Primal Passion

She may be new on the swimwear fashion scene, but Miami native and swimsuit designer Alexis Barbara is already making waves with her bold, bikini pieces.

The young designer debuted her Alexis Swimwear 2009 collection last year at the Miami Swim Show featuring tribal and exotic influences.

Her collection is a Sophisticated fusion of haute couture style and primal themes… and you can almost feel the raw passion in the print patterns and strong hues.

This striking, Bandeau bikini takes you right into the jungle… in heels!

The retro print pattern is more than eye-catching and the top ties in the front and stylishly drapes down the center for a striking effect.

Sports Illustrated the Halter bikini version of this suit in their 2009 issue.

Ready to explore unchartered territory? Capture this exquisite out-of-Africa look when you hit the beach.

Red Carter: South Beach's Bikini Maverick

These days, South Beach swimwear designer, Red Carter, is almost as famous as his glamorous swimsuit creations and the celebrities who wear them.

Red Carter unveiled his 2009 collection this summer at the Mercedes-Benz Swimwear show in Miami. The 35-year-old designer was also named the “Mercedes-Benz Presents” talents for his swimwear innovation.

Earlier this year, Red Carter received another distinction of honor when Project Runway host Heidi Klum graced the pages of Sports Illustrated alongside funnyman Will Ferrell. Heidi sported several Red Carter swimsuits including his sexy, multi-colored “Navajo” bikini.

And Red Carter doesn’t disappoint with his 2009 collection. Drawing inspiration from the Roaring ’20s, he incorporates a mixture of contemporary and retro-style bikinis, cut-out monokinis, maillots and “old Hollywood” glamour bathing suits.

Photo courtesy: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week