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The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Bikini Designs Make Big Splash at Fashion Week Sneak Peek

Caitlin Kelly unveiled her new swimwear collection on June 6.
Caitlin Kelly unveiled her new swimwear collection on June 6.
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Paul Newland/Fashionstock.com

FINANCIAL DISTRICT — Call it hot couture.

Designer Caitlin Kelly turned heads Wednesday night when she unveiled her slinky and stylish swimwear collection in the Financial District as part of a sneak peek a month before the collection's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week debut.

Kelly, an FIT grad, offered New Yorkers an exclusive look at the convertible bikinis, monokinis and cutting-edge one-pieces at a debut show on the rooftop of TF Cornerstone's 2 Gold Street. She'll eventually bring her collection to Miami runways next month, where the country's hottest designers will show all the latest trends for Spring/Summer 2013.

As a new designer, Kelly is hoping to make a big splash in the swimwear scene with gold Lurex,  Italian lace and open crochet on pieces that range from $150 to $250 wholesale.

The models posing with designer Caitlin Kelly.
The models posing with designer Caitlin Kelly.
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Donald Bowers/Getty Images

"I want a woman to be drawn in by the fabrics and styles, not turned off by a hot pink flower or print that's too daring," Kelly told WWD about her new collection.

The designs, which are slated to hit retail stores next year, also include swimwear cover-ups, including asymetrical skirts, jumpers and sheer or lacy skirts that flowed behind the models as they walked down the runway.

Male models were seen wearing itty-bitty trunks in purple, silver and blue that clung skin-tight to their muscular bodies.

The men's collection was also a big hit, Kelly said.

"I had a feeling that the men’s swimwear would add some spice to the line and round out the collection, but the unexpected positive outcome was just incredible," she told DNAinfo.

Other items included strappy pieces with plunging necklines and one-pieces created to have a shredded look.

This is Kelly's first launch with a self-titled label of high-end swimwear, but she's been around the block a few times in the bikini world. She previously designed suits Badgley Mischka, Target and, most recently, Aerin Rose Swimwear.

Her personal line is owned by Jordan Taylor Inc.