Anika 2008

Brazilians know all there is to know about beauty and the beach. Take it from Anika’s Monika Hornbostel who is an American living in Rio de Janeiro, married to a Brazilian with a infant daughter who loves chewing on lycra. Self taught, but always doodling away fun designs, bikini and otherwise, swimwear had become Monika’s passion. In 2001, Anika was launched and the line became a 24 hour a day venture with handcrafted Brazilian embellishments such as opulent embroidery, belted bottoms and exquisite jewel sidepieces. The bodacious bathing suits are cut low and skimpy but still provide enough coverage for fellow Americans, even if a Brazilian bikini wax is not an option. Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys New York have snapped up the Anika creations. The bikinis have been featured in Elle, InStyle and Women’s Wear Daily, with Elle naming Monika ‘One of the Hot Young Things’ in their summer swimsuit issue. So welcome to the exotic world of Anika where days are spent sipping caipirinhas by the sea. Just make sure to pack your flip flops and Anika bikinis!