It’s time once again for our schedule to be crazy as Swim Week is upon us and by now everyone should get loads of invite or peruse websites (such as this one) for the latest great events around Miami Beach.

First, I headed to the Raleigh Hotel to the kick off party of Mercedes Benz Fashion week. Haven’t been in a long time and its breathtaking views accompanying the enormous pool area gave a great backdrop to this wonderful event. Fashionistas from all over the world congregated in its enormous patio as they posed alongside the Mercedes on display as the official sponsor of Swim Week. Champagne cocktails by Moet Henessy along with delectable appetizers served by the Raleigh Hotel wet any appetite. Great place with great atmosphere!

As I was walking to another gallery, I came upon a big tent between 21st and 22nd Street in Collins-Funkshion Fashion Week. As I came in, a fashion show was already underway: Peroni presents Young Designer Award with Fashion Group International where the finalists designs were presented in the fashion show. The winner will receive a trip to New York City during Fashion Week and the opportunity to meet the internationally known designer Antonio Berardi. Good luck to the winner!!

Then, I strolled close by to the newly opened Avant Gallery. Originally located in Design District, I was pleasantly surprised that they newly opened in the heart of Miami Beach. For this night, they had a cool event named Villa Azur presents “Sin City,” an exhibition of collaborative photography by Hype Williams and John Jansheski. Sexy and provocative artwork decorated the gallery as guests strolled in the many sections that the gallery had.

Lastly, my day ended at the Delano where Ocean Drive Magazine had their Swim cover party where swimsuit models posed for the cameras and an ice bar greeted the guest for a wonderful cocktail reception. During the course of the night, a model in an air bubble was “rolling” around the pool area and in some cases splashing some of guests. It was a fun night to remember for my first day of Swim Week.