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Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

The Swimwear Battle 2024 showcased a vibrant mix of creativity and talent, drawing fashion enthusiasts from across Toronto. This article provides an in-depth look at the event through exclusive interviews with two standout participants: Diana of Pretty Little Strings, a first-time swimwear model and designer, and Bethany Parkhouse, an experienced model and actress. Here, we explore their unique journeys and experiences at the event.

Event Overview

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

The Swimwear Battle, a prominent fixture on Toronto's fashion calendar, showcased the latest trends in swimwear design. This year’s event boasted the work of six talented designers, each presenting a unique take on swimwear fashion. In addition to the stunning designs, the event was further energized by dynamic performances from hip-hop artist KEMDILO. The lively atmosphere and enthusiastic participation highlighted the creativity and innovation of both emerging and seasoned talent, making it a memorable celebration of fashion and music.

Interview with Diana of Pretty Little Strings

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

Introduction to Diana

Diana, the creative force behind Pretty Little Strings, is renowned for her handmade yarn designs that infuse a unique flair into festival fashion. Transitioning from modelling at Content Day events to designing, Diana has made a notable impact in the fashion industry. The Swimwear Battle marked her debut in swimwear modelling.

Diana’s Experience at Swimwear Battle

Excited and curious, Diana embraced the challenges of presenting her handmade swimwear designs in a competitive setting. Her journey from concept to runway involved intricate craftsmanship and a deep understanding of her audience’s preferences.

"I used to model for some of the events at Content Day," Diana shared. "When I became a designer, I decided to apply here."

Personal Insights

Reflecting on her experience, Diana found swimwear designing to be both rewarding and demanding. She prepared by incorporating feedback from her previous designs and ensuring her swimwear pieces were stylish yet functional.

"I draw a lot of inspiration from music festivals and people’s outfits," Diana said. "My designs are handmade out of yarn, and I try to make them cute and fun, not necessarily following trends."

The event provided valuable lessons on balancing creativity with practicality and reinforced her commitment to her unique design philosophy.

"I hope the future of swimwear focuses more on individual inspiration rather than trends," Diana emphasized.

Interview with Bethany Parkhouse

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

Introduction to Bethany

Bethany Parkhouse is an accomplished model and actress with a diverse background. Her acting career began at seven, and her modelling journey started more recently. Her participation in various events, including “Lust N Lace,” has solidified her reputation in the industry.

Bethany’s Experience at Swimwear Battle

Bethany’s participation in the Swimwear Battle was her first venture into swimwear modelling. Having previously modelled lingerie for “Lust N Lace,” she found this experience both challenging and exhilarating. The Swimwear Battle demanded a different kind of confidence and preparation, which she embraced fully.

"I did a show for Lust N Lace at Coin 8 back in October and it was a really empowering experience. My friend Natti asked me if I was interested in participating in Swimwear Battle, so I thought it was a good opportunity to expand my runway skills and get to perform. Coming from an acting background, I always like to add character when modelling, based on the makeup and designer’s work. My look was a gorgeous gold, treasure-inspired look, so I really got to play into a character with high value and confidence within herself, with a touch of mystery being the sacred treasure. For me, any experience is a good experience, as long as it’s enjoyable and working towards your life’s goals. There’s a great video by Margot Robbie on this."

Personal Insights

Bethany’s swimwear modelling experience pushed her out of her comfort zone. She prepared meticulously, focusing on confidence and showcasing designs with poise. Her emotions during the event ranged from excitement to a renewed sense of purpose.

"I’m excited. I love that I get to represent artists' work and network with other creative individuals. The look I got to portray was something close to my personal style with the gold and red touches, as well as a rose and heart attribute. The makeup was also stunning and mermaid-inspired, which as a Pisces is perfect for me." Bethany said.

Runway Reflections

Diana and Bethany brought unique perspectives to the Swimwear Battle, shaped by their diverse backgrounds. Diana’s fresh approach as a designer added a unique element to the competition, while Bethany’s extensive experience in acting and modelling gave her an edge in stage presence and confidence. Despite their differences, both faced common challenges such as overcoming nerves and ensuring their presentations resonated with the audience. Their experiences highlight the varied paths and approaches within the fashion industry.

Conclusion

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

The Swimwear Battle 2024 was a resounding success, celebrating the incredible talent and creativity of its participants. Through Diana and Bethany’s experiences, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication driving the fashion industry. As we look forward to future events, we encourage readers to follow the journeys of these remarkable individuals and support emerging talent in the fashion world.

Visual Gallery

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram

Photo credits: @litehour on Instagram