Dope Tavio, one of the hippest brands on the market, presented its “Miami Made Me Do It” Swim & Resort SS24 Collection on June 1st in Miami. Octavio Aguilar, a Puerto Rican American fashion designer, created the genderless avant-garde streetwear line Dope Tavio. As a self-taught designer, using a sewing machine for the first time at the age of 13, Dope has since become known as the star of Project Runway 19.
He has worked on extensive editorials, music videos, and fashion shows, with artists like Erykah Badu, Garbage, Kelela, and Rico Nasty highlighting his work. Now represented by Patricia Field, Dope Tavio is available at the ArtFashion Gallery in New York City.
Dope Tavio Miami Made Me Do It collection, during Miami Swim Week 2024 - photo credits: Bridgett Ezzard
Miami Made Me Do It
Octavio’s show during Miami Swim Week was a testament to his provocative yet stunning designs. Dope Tavio draws inspiration from the vibrant New York City clubbing scene, evident in its hip-hop, clubbing, and punk-rock-infused designs. This influence is even reflected in his swimwear.
Dope Tavio’s clothes are purposely gender-fluid but also are exciting, beautiful regardless of the sex of the wearer. One of the highlights of the presentation was a black and white leopard printed dress with ripped jeans shoulders. It was an ingenious look that hinted at female ’80s decadence and male medieval metal shoulder plates. The dress was fitted on a male model with a matching scarf and punk rock boots. It was clearly a look that highlighted that creativity and glamor have no gender.
Dope Tavio Miami Made Me Do It collection, during Miami Swim Week 2024 - photo credits: Bridgett Ezzard
Swimwear, but in Dope Tavio's Style
Another design, a caftan robe, utilized Dope Tavio’s euphonious geometrical black-and-white, but this time with flashes of orange tiger stripes. The model glided in front of the spectators in a loosely tied voluminous robe. It was visually spectacular and emphasized Dope Tavio’s adherence to beauty with a provocative flair.
One outfit in particular caught attention as a model of Dope Tavio’s aesthetic. It was a black thong paired with a matching black intricate deconstructed jacket. At first glance, the beautiful ankle-length jacket seemed almost fragile. But looking more closely, you could see the intricate design with shoulder pads that nearly popped away from the garment with hints of white fabric. From the back, an artistic series of safety pins threaded one side in a swaying pattern while the joyous Dope Tavio crown was sewn onto the collar.
Dope Tavio Miami Made Me Do It collection, during Miami Swim Week 2024 - photo credits: Bridgett Ezzard
Dope Tavio was once questioned if his clothes were too specific or niche. However, the brand continues to refute this limited idea. Octavio combines beauty, quality, and, most importantly, avant-garde creativity to make anyone look fabulous and confident. They have to take a leap and trust in Dope Tavio’s aesthetic and commitment to quality.
