The latest installment of «Gran Canaria Swim Week by Moda Cálida» has concluded with impressive results and promising international collaborations. The swimwear fashion event, held at Maspalomas’ Expomeloneras venue from October 5 to 7, saw a remarkable 45% surge in online engagement, resulting in over 2.5 million social media impacts. In 2023, a substantial budget of 2 million euros was allocated to elevate the event’s profile.
This year’s edition featured 31 brands, each unveiling their Spring/Summer 2024 swimwear collections on the Gran Canaria runway. Notably, the event welcomed nine international labels, including renowned names like the French brand Pain de Sucre and the Italian firm Miss Bikini. Additionally, it hosted six brands from mainland Spain, such as Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada and Como un pez en el agua. The event continued to champion local talent, showcasing 16 Canarian brands, including 14 from Gran Canaria and two from La Palma.
The event struck a harmonious balance between promoting local swimwear fashion and expanding its global presence. Minerva Alonso, government counselor for economic development, industry, trade, and crafts at the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, emphasized the event’s growing international footprint and the need to coexist with global brands as part of their internationalization efforts.
The inclusion of the Italian brand Miss Bikini, a seasoned participant in the Canarian runway, underscores the success of their internationalization strategy. For brands like Miss Bikini, the event offers a vital platform for expanding into new territories and connecting with a broader audience.
In the future, «Gran Canaria Swim Week by Moda Cálida» plans to strengthen alliances by participating in events like Maredamare in Italy, Berlin and Copenhagen fashion weeks. Additionally, it will feature a New York-based brand in the upcoming edition, thanks to a partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America.
Designer Elena Morales, founder of her eponymous brand, expressed her pride in showcasing her work in her homeland, having left the Canary Islands for Madrid to gain expertise. She has since become a prominent name in the national swimwear industry, with a focus on sustainability.
The event also raised its level of professionalism, with a strong focus on attracting specialized media outlets. The overwhelming interest from brands looking to participate has prompted discussions about extending the swimwear fashion week by an additional day.
The event’s closing day featured an awards ceremony to recognize outstanding designers. The «El amor» collection by Arcadio Domínguez, characterized by shades of pink, received the award for the best collection, sponsored by Louzao Mercedes-Benz. Palmas Swimwear was honored with the award for the best sustainable collection, sponsored by Maredamare and CYL magazine. Muchiachio received the award for the best emerging collection, sponsored by Mahou 5 Estrellas.
Established in 1996 by the Industry, Trade, and Crafts Council of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, and supported by the Spanish Association of Fashion Creators (Acme) since 2017, the «Gran Canaria Moda Cálida» program coordinates various trade shows and runway events, including «Gran Canaria Swim Week by Moda Cálida,» «Gran Canaria Summerland,» «Gran Canaria Bridal Collection,» and «Gran Canaria Fashion&Friends.»
Recent data shows a growth of approximately 28% compared to 2019 and 41% compared to 2021. Furthermore, since the second half of 2022, there has been a 5% increase in newly registered companies, with an 8% rise during that period. The event continues to flourish, positioning itself as a global hub for swimwear fashion.
