Melissa Odabash swimwear now in Manila

By Malu Fernandez

The month of February is usually the best time to go on vacation at your favorite resort—the masses of holiday vacationers are usually back to work so most resorts are virtually ghost towns. This is the time for a quick romantic getaway with your significant other and if you’re lucky you may have your pick of exclusive high-end resorts at lower rates, and if money isn’t a problem and you’re flying off to the Maldives to enjoy the ocean breeze, you might as well look the part and fit in your luxurious surroundings by wearing the right swimwear.

The best couture swimwear designer isn’t part of the LVMH group. She is Melissa Odabash, a former catwalk and swimwear model in the Italian fashion industry, who perfected the technique and style before venturing into her own swimwear line. She focuses on simple styles and quality fabrics while innovating construction and mastering the art of detailing. She started in 1998 with her now famous Zebra print bikini, which was sold out in the Victoria’s Secret catalog and was widely featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. With those credentials alone you know you’re going to look smoking hot in her swimsuits. She has had a cult following in Hollywood where the likes of Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Paris Hilton, Victoria Beckham, Teri Hatcher, Sarah Jessica Parker, Halle Berry and Cindy Crawford are addicted to her swimsuits.

She has a full range of swimwear from the conventional to the dazzling. Some of her pieces even have an evening gown quality. My favorite one is her purple fringe one piece from the 2009 collection and her apple green suit with rhinestones. I know it’s a bit over the top but think about it. Wearing a cocktail dress at the beach is a bit difficult. Your Manolos would get ruined! So a dazzled-up swimsuit would be the best choice.

So ladies, go hit the gym and watch what you eat because it would be a shame not to be able to wear any of these suits, since some of them are actually available here, go pick up one or two suits and a cover up at Itsie-Bitsie Boutique located at Unit 114-119 Joya Lofts and Towers, Joya Drive, Rockwell Center. (02) 897 1821. Itsie Bitsie has always been known to carry unique and special items especially for those who love to do resort hopping so check it, out you may find more than just a swimsuit!

The Odabash 2009 collection is inspired by her recent trip to Africa. The combination of earth tones, metallics and animal prints are mixed in with her signature tortoise, gold and accessory touches.