A teensy-weensy, zebra-striped, strapless bikini was just one of the many sexy little numbers worn by Brazilian beauties as they energetically bounced — one step short of a samba — down the catwalks of Fashion Rio in Rio de Janeiro last month.

While Rio's big urban sister Sao Paulo shows off experimental fare during its fashion week, Fashion Rio presents casual attire fit for any event short of a ball; clothes that could be plucked from the runway and taken straight onto the streets. An influx of emerging designers combined with innovations in textiles production has the Brazilian government placing heavy bets on successful global expansion for the industry.

Brazil is famous for its beachwear, and Rio de Janeiro's ocean-lovin' natives live to show off some of the most unique swimsuits in the world. For 2009, top brand Lenny designed architectural pieces with precariously curved cut-outs that miraculously managed to hold everything in place. Brazilian label Luiza Bonadiman presented intricate swimsuits made of shredded and woven Lycra, and Salinas Swimwear brought quirky prints inspired by Spanish director Pedro Almodovar's films.