Seeking swimsuit inspiration? Gran Canaria Swim Week emerges as Europe's swimwear epicenter

Known as a ‘continent in miniature’, Gran Canaria – situated off the northwestern coast of Africa but part of Spain – is an island of contrasts. In the south, the striking Maspalomas Dunes stretch out like rolling waves of sand, meeting a turquoise shoreline dotted with lively bars, shops, and restaurants. Inland, you’ll find rugged, mist-covered mountains, volcanic craters, and terraced farms where almond and olive trees flourish. The northern coast takes a dramatic turn, with craggy cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean and whitewashed houses clustered against lush hillsides. In short, Gran Canaria is a sun-seeking surfer’s paradise with steady summer weather a mere hop-and-a-skip away from Scandinavia. It’s little wonder, then, that it has been home to the only professional swimwear fashion week in Europe since 1996—Gran Canaria Swim Week by Moda Cálida (GCSW).

The driving force behind this event is Gran Canaria Moda Cálida, an initiative spearheaded by the island's Department of Industry, Trade, and Crafts. At the helm of GCSW is Minerva Alonso, Councilor for Economic Development, who has led the program since 2015. “Swimwear is an integral part of our identity and landscape here on the island of Gran Canaria,” she says. “Ever since I became responsible, we have been trying to make sure that Gran Canaria becomes the linking point between European and American swimwear.”

Alonso is passionate about showcasing Gran Canaria’s dual identity as both a fashion hub and a travel destination. “This is a platform, subsidised by the government, which allows designers free artistic direction, a free media plan and free communication,” she says. “This allows them to show their work to the rest of the world, get in touch with buyers and build their brands.”

Local designer Celia Vallespir Gracía, founder of Econaked, is one of those taking advantage of this platform. Debuting her collection of shimmering lurex swimsuits and sheer cover-ups, this season marks her first runway appearance. “I’m nervous, but in the best way,” she admits. As both a model and a Canarian, she sees it as a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight not only on her designs but her home. For example, her new collection was “inspired by the way that the sunset catches on the waves” in Gran Canaria.

Elena Morales was another standout local designer on the schedule celebrating her home. Having studied at Parsons before returning to her Canarian roots, Morales showcased her fifth collection at GCSW. Her designs, a tribute to the island’s artisanship, featured ceramic buckles crafted by local ceramists. “Producing locally allows us to celebrate the craftsmanship that defines Gran Canaria,” she notes.

While no Scandinavian brands participated, the ties between GCSW and the Nordic region were evident. Morales, for instance, showcased her collection at Copenhagen Fashion Week earlier this year, part of an ongoing exchange between the two events. At GCSW, Danish buyers and a delegation from Copenhagen Fashion Week graced the front row while Scandinavian models fleeing the Nordic cold for hotter climates populated the runways. The Spanish brand Vän — its name a nod to the Swedish word for ‘friend’— also made a splash with its sporty wetsuits layered over bikinis, setting the tone for the week.

GCSW was a welcome reminder of sunnier days on the far horizon as winter deepens and temperatures plummet. The runway’s dynamic mix of sleek one-pieces, vibrant bikinis, and breezy cover-ups served as a welcomed nudge to start curating our summer wardrobes. After all, Gran Canaria’s golden sands and sparkling waters are always just a short flight away for those craving a dose of vitamin D when the season changes.