Sonia De Mello’s So De Mel swimwear and resort wear is infused with the influence of her native Brazil. “So De Mel was born of a desire to see changes, re-create a modern approach to beachwear, and to introduce the U.S. market to my country’s own philosophy when it comes to beachwear,” the Montecito studio owner says. (Christy Schuler photo)

Montecito model Tiana Geifer is in the pink with a So De Mel two-piece high-rise swimsuit. (Christy Schuler photo) 
Model Tiana Geifer sports a So De Mel beige one-piece swimsuit. (Christy Schuler photo) 
Sophie Haber of Montecito models a So De Mel shirt dress. (Christy Schuler photo) 
Tiana Geifer shows off a white So De Mel swimsuit with fringed shawl. (Christy Schuler photo) 
Lucy Bidwell models a black and white print bikini and pink blouse. (Christy Schuler photo) 
Sophie Haber. (Christy Schuler photo)
Bill Macfadyen is Noozhawk’s founder and publisher. Contact him at wmacfadyen@noozhawk.com, and follow him on Instagram: @bill.macfadyen. The opinions expressed are his own.
More by William M. Macfadyen, Noozhawk Publisher