The runway at Mondrian South Beach became the epicenter of fashion and celebration on Sunday, June 1, as swimwear and costume designer Lila Nikole Rivera unveiled her dazzling “Quince” collection in honor of the 15th anniversary of her namesake brand: Lila Nikole Collection.

The “Quince” collection was an explosion of style that confirmed why Lila Nikole is one of the strongest voices in Latin swimwear design today. The runway lit up with dramatic pieces—from barely-there bikinis to strappy full-body suits, sheer overlays, breezy jackets, fringed skirts, and corset-inspired tops.

Color was just as central as the silhouettes, blending electric and warm tones: bold fuchsias, neon yellows, vibrant aqua, fiery reds, deep purples, and sleek black, all brought to life with floral and geometric prints that reflect the designer’s signature visual DNA.

The special touch? A swimsuit featuring the Puerto Rican flag, which was part of the show and brought joy to the audience. A heartfelt tribute to her roots—and to the next generation of dreamers.

A Conversation with Lila Nikole Rivera, by Camaleónicas

Amid the post-runway buzz—cameras flashing, celebrities mingling, and champagne flowing—we at Camaleónicas stole a few minutes with the woman behind the vision.

Camaleónicas: First of all, happy 15 years!
Lila Nikole: Thank you so much!

Camaleónicas: How did it all start? Because launching a brand is one thing, but taking that first step—that life-changing decision—is another.
Lila Nikole: I fell into swimwear by accident. It started as a school project and I turned out to be really good at it. I’d make one, buy some fabric, make more… that’s how it began. I actually went to school for costume design, not swimwear.

Camaleónicas: People say swimwear is like doing math well—precise and unforgiving.
Lila Nikole: Exactly! This industry is tough. But in that first year, my four or five swimsuits were featured in every major editorial. That’s when I realized I had something. So I just kept going. And here we are, 15 years later.

Camaleónicas: How does it feel to reach this milestone?
Lila Nikole: This year was chaotic, but seeing the final result—it’s beautiful. We were prepared, and it feels amazing to be here.

Camaleónicas: What does “Quince” represent beyond the anniversary?
Lila Nikole: As a Puerto Rican, turning 15 is a rite of passage. We’ve made it. I wanted to honor my nationality. You’ll see a lot of Hispanic-language elements in the collection. Even one of the very first swimsuits I ever made is on the runway. And the one with the Puerto Rican flag, too. It’s all about showing a new generation that dreams really do come true.

Camaleónicas: And you’ve built this completely on your own…
Lila Nikole: Yes. No one helped me. I don’t have partners or financing. Just hard work, heart, and resilience. What I always tell my interns or anyone I mentor is: if you really want it, you’ll find the way. “No” doesn’t mean no. It means: find something else. You have to believe in yourself and pour your soul into it. That’s what I do.

Camaleónicas: Three words to describe your brand?
Lila Nikole: Out of the ordinary. Always bold. And fun and bright.
Camaleónicas: Just like your personality.
Lila Nikole: Thank you! It was great talking to you.

A Night of Stars, Sound, and Celebration

The show wasn’t just a collection reveal—it was a full-fledged fashion celebration. A-list attendees included Flo Rida, Cuba Gooding Jr., Pink Sweat$, and NBA legend Alonzo Mourning, all showing up to support Lila and her creative journey. The party continued at an exclusive after-party presented by Casamigos Tequila, where custom cocktails and live DJ sets by Dinero, Epps, Cool Blaze, and Mad Linx kept the energy high into the night.

“Quince” is more than a collection. It’s a statement—of creative independence, cultural pride, and feminine power. Lila Nikole Rivera has proven that there’s no single way to make it in fashion—and that when talent meets determination and authenticity, dreams don’t just come true, they turn into legacy.

From Camaleónicas, we celebrate you, Lila. Here’s to many more years of bold design, strong roots, and fearless vision. 🌺

Photo by Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Miami Swim Week: The Shows