Miami - October 24, 2008

Strong Suit

DiNeila Bathing Suits

Every country has its specialty. For pasta, you turn to Italy. A lover, France. Vodka, Alaska. No wait, Russia.

And the undisputed ruler of the bikini: Brazil.

So with open arms we welcome the newest line out of São Paulo, DiNeila. The high-quality suits — like Transformers — can be done up in a variety of ways.

Take the Brigitte: a tropical-print bikini with a ruched bandeau top. The strap can be tied around the neck (sweetheart style), removed and worn as a headband (strapless), or looped through the gold hardware on the bottom (voilà — a belt). Our favorite, the Rita, is an equally versatile black bikini. The ties turn from halter straps to bodice bow.

The bottoms are Brazilian cut — itty-bitty. And though not straight-up thongs, they’re still a tad cheeky.

Sexy? You betcha.

Available at Big Drop, 2321 Collins Avenue, at the Gansevoort, South Beach (305-532-8800 or bigdropnyc.com). To see styles, go to dineila.com.