Swimsuit Innovator L*Space By Monica Wise Receives 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' Designer Title

L*Space by Monica Wise, known for creating luxurious swimwear with sexy silhouettes and flattering fits, will be this season’s “Mercedes-Benz Presents” designer with plans to debut its 2010 collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim in Miami, Friday, July 17th at 10:00 PM, at The Raleigh Hotel. 

L*Space by Monica Wise joins a prestigious list of “Mercedes-Benz Presents” designers including Monique Lhuillier, Badgley Mischka, Yigal Azrouël, Red Carter and CHADO Ralph Rucci.  The “Mercedes-Benz Presents” program provides support to designers that demonstrate dedication to quality materials, unique style and innovative design.

In addition to introducing a full line of swim and resort wear at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, L*Space by Monica Wise will unveil a capsule collection in partnership with OmniPeace, a humanitarian fashion brand founded by entrepreneur Mary Fanaro that donates 25% of profits to charities promoting peace, human rights, education, and the end of extreme poverty in Africa by 2025.  Inspired by the African desert and ocean, the designs are named after African villages affiliated with OmniPeace and feature coconut detailing and bone-like motifs.  L*Space for OmniPeace will retail for approximately $130 with 20% of all proceeds going to support OmniPeace’s many efforts in Africa.

“L*Space by Monica Wise is a perfect fit as this season’s ‘Mercedes-Benz Presents’ designer when comparing the all new E-Class to L*Space’s modern swimsuits that integrate both luxury materials and unique lines that standout from other designs,” said Lisa Holladay, Manager of Brand Experience for Mercedes-Benz.  “We also want the fashion industry to be aware of and support Monica’s capsule collection that will help provide funding for OmniPeace’s charitable activities.”  

L*Space designer Monica Wise has established herself as a leader in the swimwear industry, reflecting a clear understanding of a woman’s figure and the desire to feel confident on the beach or at the pool. Inspired by her Southern California lifestyle and favorite accessories—including 18k gold hardware and colored gems—Wise aims to deliver the perfect marriage of stunning fabrics with an impeccable fit to create a sexy, stylish aesthetic.

With its unique and innovative approach to swimsuit design, L*Space by Monica Wise has received industry accolades, such as the coveted “Women’s Swim Brand of the Year” award from the Surf Industry Manufacturer’s Association in 2007 and 2008, and is currently nominated for the 2009 Award for both “Swim Brand of the Year” and “Best Marketing Campaign.” 

“I am thrilled to be a ‘Mercedes-Benz Presents’ designer and to have their support during this major industry show not only for my swimwear designs, but for my philanthropic collaboration with OmniPeace,” said Monica Wise, creator and head designer of L*Space. “While my designs for L*Space make women feel luxurious, sexy and beautiful, I hope that our connection with OmniPeace also inspires them to make a difference and give back.”

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim will take place in Miami Beach, Florida at The Raleigh Hotel from July 15-19.  Designers presenting their spring 2010 collections, include True Religion, Red Carter, Ed Hardy and Cia Maritima.

For more information about Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim at The Raleigh Hotel, and for a schedule of shows and events, visit www.mbfashionweek.com/miami.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. In 2007, Mercedes-Benz USA became the title sponsor of IMG's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim in Miami.  Mercedes-Benz is also the title sponsor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin. For more than 40 years, MBUSA has taken pride in its commitment to the customer by providing superior quality luxury vehicles coupled with outstanding customer support. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.maybachusa.com.

About L*SPACE BY Monica Wise

A favorite with Hollywood’s hippest – from Cameron Diaz to Jessica Alba - L*Space by Monica Wise has graced the covers of countless magazines.  Known for extraordinary silhouettes and flattering fits, Monica’s much-coveted designs easily go from beach time to play time. L*Space by Monica Wise is available at Saks Fifth Avenue and specialty boutiques around the world.  For more information, please visit www.Lspace.com.

About Omnipeace

OmniPeace was founded by Mary Fanaro, a humanitarian entrepreneur.  The Los Angeles based humanitarian fashion brand donates 25% of all its profits to efforts committed to charities promoting peace, education, human rights and ending extreme poverty in Africa by 2025.  For more information, please visit www.omnipeace.com.