The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show 2025 dazzled audiences once again with a breathtaking display of fashion, athleticism, and personality. Held at the W Hotel in South Beach, Miami, the iconic annual event brought together an eclectic mix of athletes, influencers, and models. This year, the show took a bold step toward promoting inclusivity and modern beauty standards, featuring a lineup that included gymnast and LSU sensation Livvy Dunne and social media star Alix Earle.
The show not only highlighted stylish swimwear but also told a powerful story about self-confidence and individuality. This mix of fashion and purpose has become the trademark of Sports Illustrated’s approach in recent years.
Read more about the 2025 Swimsuit Edition here
Livvy Dunne: From Gymnastics Star to Fashion Icon
One of the most talked-about appearances was that of Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, who took the runway by storm. Known for her gymnastics talent and massive TikTok following, Dunne wore a shimmering, deep-blue bikini that matched her athletic grace. Her walk was both poised and confident—demonstrating how athletes are redefining what it means to be a model.
Dunne’s participation marks a growing trend where elite athletes are being celebrated not just for their achievements on the field but also for their personalities and influence off it. She later shared her excitement on Instagram, calling the experience “surreal and empowering.”
Check out Livvy Dunne’s Sports Illustrated debut
Alix Earle’s Stunning Runway Debut
Alix Earle, the University of Miami graduate turned social media sensation, made her runway debut at the show. Known for her lifestyle content and massive influence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Earle rocked a bold leopard-print one-piece swimsuit that earned cheers from the audience.
Earle has consistently promoted body positivity and self-love in her content, and her appearance in the show solidified her role as a new-age beauty icon. She later told media outlets, “It’s an honor to be a part of something so meaningful, where all types of women are celebrated.”
Explore Alix Earle’s journey to the runway
Celebrating Body Positivity and Representation
One of the most powerful aspects of the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Show was its unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion. The runway featured models of various shapes, sizes, and backgrounds—including plus-size models, cancer survivors, and models with disabilities. This diversity wasn’t performative; it was woven into the very fabric of the show’s identity.
Veteran model Camille Kostek, who has long championed body confidence, opened the show with a message: “The runway is for everyone. This is not about perfection—it’s about power.” Her words set the tone for a night where real stories stood out just as much as the swimwear.
Read how Sports Illustrated champions body diversity
The Designers Behind the Magic
The 2025 edition showcased designs from renowned and emerging swimwear labels, each pushing the boundaries of modern fashion. Brands like Montce Swim, Monday Swimwear, and Vitamin A brought fresh color palettes, sustainable fabrics, and bold cuts to the stage.
Designers were encouraged to collaborate with models to personalize their looks—another move that added authenticity to the event. One standout moment came when a breast cancer survivor walked the runway in a custom pink suit designed to complement her post-surgery body, drawing loud applause from the crowd.
See the top swimwear trends for 2025
Social Media Buzz and Star-Studded Audience
The show dominated social media platforms with hashtags like #SISwim2025 and #RunwayForAll trending for hours. Fans posted clips, reactions, and fashion breakdowns in real time, making it one of the most talked-about fashion events of the season.
The front row featured celebrities such as Ciara, Megan Fox, Tom Brady, and Kylie Jenner, all showing their support for the evolving narrative of beauty and representation. Influencers and fashion editors praised the show’s bold styling and empowering message.
A New Era for Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated is redefining what it means to be part of the fashion and modeling industry. The 2025 Swimsuit Runway Show is part of a broader shift the brand has undertaken in the past five years—focusing on inclusion, mental health awareness, and authentic storytelling.
Editor-in-chief MJ Day said it best: “We’re not just showing swimsuits. We’re showing strength. We’re showcasing people who are changing the world in their own unique way.”
What This Means for the Industry
Events like the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show are forcing the fashion industry to rethink long-held standards. With its ever-evolving lineup and message-driven campaigns, SI Swimsuit is proving that you don’t have to fit into a box to be beautiful or successful.
The 2025 edition wasn’t just another swimwear show—it was a cultural moment, pushing boundaries and sparking conversations across platforms.
Final Thoughts
From Livvy Dunne’s powerful debut to Alix Earle’s fearless presence, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show 2025 was more than just a glamorous night—it was a declaration of progress, empowerment, and individuality. It showcased how fashion can be both bold and inclusive, entertaining yet deeply meaningful.
As the crowd gave a standing ovation and models gathered for the final walk, one thing was clear: the runway has finally become a space for everyone. And that’s worth celebrating.
Catch the full 2025 Sports Illustrated Runway replay here
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