MSW25 - Mars the Label / Runway Shows | S.N. Advertising Fashion

Mars the Label - Fashion Presentation

Event: Sports Illustrated - 5/30/25

The moment we have all been waiting for has finally arrived as Miami Swim Week was back for another season of fashion shows and networking with the top designers & models in the industry. On Friday, May 30th, a total of seventeen fashion brands would showcase their Amazing collection on the runway at the one and only Mondrian Hotel South Beach. Arianna Ajtar who is the founder and CEO of Mars the Label, presented her latest swimwear garments to open the show. There were a total of 39 swimwear garments which included one piece, two piece, cover ups, and more.

How long have you been a runway / fashion model and what inspired you to consider the profession of modeling?

I’ve been modeling for over 7 years now. What first drew me to the profession was the artistry behind it - the idea that people from different backgrounds and talents come together to create something beautiful. The fashion industry, at its core, is built on collaboration, and that creative energy inspired me. The moment I knew I wanted to pursue modeling professionally came in 2019, when I booked my first major campaign with Fenty Beauty. It was the first time I truly felt seen. After facing a string of rejections, getting that "YES" - especially as a freelance model, felt surreal. It gave me the confidence and motivation to keep going and to deepen my commitment to the craft. Since then, modeling has taken me into rooms and across countries I never imagined I’d be in. It’s been an incredible journey that all started with that one breakthrough moment.

How tall are you and where are you from? Also, where are you based?

I’m 5'10". Though I like to say that when I "WALK" I’m 10 feet tall! I was born in Nigeria and am currently based in Dallas, Texas.

"Mars the Label". What was it like to walk for such an Iconic brand?

Walking for Mars the Label was truly surreal. Just being cast by such an iconic brand was a moment I’ll never forget. I’ve admired Mars the Label for so long. Their designs are bold, empowering, and the quality is unmatched. You can feel the luxury and intention the moment you put it on. It was an absolute honor to represent their vision on the runway.

Covering the event as a blogger was fashion model Deja Natei. Altogether, Deja walked for 4 designers during swim week but she wasn't going to miss this event for the world. She stated: Covering the Sports Illustrated fashion show was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. The runway was set on top of a beautiful pool of water that the models got to strut down in front of a cheering crowd. It was amazing to see such diversity on the runway! All the models brought the energy and we’re having a great time on the runway and interacting with the crowd. It was a privilege to witness firsthand how Sports Illustrated continues to push boundaries and celebrate diverse beauty. Being up close to such iconic designs and talented models was truly inspiring.

Walking the runway for Sports Illustrated at their next show would be a dream come true. It would mean joining a legacy of iconic models and athletes who have graced their runway, and it would be an incredible platform to showcase body positivity, strength, and confidence. Being a part of such a prestigious and influential event would be an honor, and I would be thrilled to contribute to their ongoing celebration of diversity and empowerment. It would allow me to represent and inspire others to embrace their unique selves.

Deja Natei is a fashion model, blogger and influencer that covers fashion shows and networking events. Keep in touch with Deja via IG @dejanatei to find out future fashion shows and networking events she'll be a part of. Also, check out Sports Illustrated Swim on IG @si_swimsuit. Keep an eye out for future fashion shows and other events.