publish time

15/05/2024

author name Arab Times

publish time

15/05/2024

Gayle King

LOS ANGELES, May 15: Sports Illustrated's iconic swimsuit issue is back, celebrating its 60th anniversary with a diverse array of covers featuring renowned figures from various industries. Unveiled on Tuesday, the covers showcase journalist Gayle King, plus-sized model Hunter McGrady, and returning stars Chrissy Teigen and Kate Upton.

King, making her debut as a Sports Illustrated model at 69, exudes confidence in a pink-and-green patterned one-piece suit with spaghetti straps. McGrady, known for founding a fashion line catering to sizes up to 5X, stuns in a brown one-piece with bold cutouts, marking her return to the magazine since her debut in 2017.

Upton, a veteran of the swimsuit issue, graces her fourth cover wearing a vibrant pink and red ruffled bikini. Teigen, who previously adorned the cover for the magazine's 50th anniversary, strikes a pose in an eye-catching orange suit with a plunging neckline, adding her signature flair to the collection.

Since its inception in 1964, the swimsuit issue has evolved, moving beyond showcasing solely skinny young women in revealing bikinis. In recent years, the publication has embraced diversity by featuring models of various ages, body types, and backgrounds, including trans models, Paralympic athletes, and women wearing burkinis, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.

Reflecting on the magazine's journey, MJ Day, editor-in-chief of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, emphasized the publication's mission to challenge stereotypes and champion diversity over the past six decades.

In addition to the individual covers, this year's issue features group photos of past models, including Christie Brinkley, Martha Stewart, Megan Rapinoe, Paulina Porizkova, and Tyra Banks, elegantly clad in evening gowns, further highlighting the magazine's celebration of women from all walks of life.