Sports Illustrated Swimsuit took Miami by storm this weekend, transforming the W South Beach into a glittering hub of fashion, fame, and celebration during Miami Swim Week 2025. The brand’s highly anticipated runway show unfolded on Saturday night, closing out four days of curated events with a catwalk that radiated star power and unapologetic glamour.
COMMANDING THE CATWALK:
Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, the collegiate gymnast-turned-cultural phenomenon, opened the show to deafening cheers as she made her Sports Illustrated runway debut. She was followed by a powerful cast of 25 women, including Alix Earle, Bethenny Frankel, and other SI favorites… each commanding the runway with confidence, charisma, and personality. Frankel’s appearance was a standout moment, marking a bold and unexpected walk that had the front row abuzz and cheering.
The show wasn’t just a finale… it was the crown jewel of a whirlwind four-day takeover by Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, anchored at the W South Beach. The festivities began on Thursday night with a historic moment: SI Swimsuit editor-in-chief MJ Day was inducted into the inaugural Swimwear Icons Hall of Fame, receiving the Media Icon Award for her visionary leadership and commitment to inclusive representation.
Friday kept the tempo high with a VIP brunch, a Coppertone-sponsored beach club activation, and a glamorous private dinner, where models, editors, and brand partners mingled by moonlight. Saturday unfolded with a luxury gifting suite and the buzzworthy Après Pool Party, a high-energy daytime celebration that bridged the gap between fashion and lifestyle.
By showtime Saturday night, anticipation had peaked and SI Swimsuit delivered. In a surprise moment, rising music star Jessie Murph took the stage mid-show, giving guests a live performance that elevated the runway from spectacle to full-blown celebration.
This year’s presentation was not just about showcasing swimsuits… it was about showcasing strength, individuality, and the evolution of what it means to be a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model in 2025. From viral icons to seasoned personalities, the lineup reflected a changing tide in fashion and media, one where every woman, in every form, holds power.
As the lights dimmed on the SI Swimsuit Runway Show and the final model took her bow, one thing was clear: Sports Illustrated didn’t just host an event… they owned Swim Week. There was not an event such as this one and there probably wont ever be with them continuing their success and shows at Miami Swim Week.
On the ground at the event was photojournalist, Matthew, who was there to capture the event. Matthew, along with his team member, Nina, from Out and About 239 captured the event as official press for Paris Runway Official at the Sports Illustarated Runway Show.
Written by Brit Olivia
