How Swimwear Runways Evolved from Stereotypes to Celebrating Beauty Through Diversity

Every year, the world’s major fashion capitals continue to impress with increasing diversity and inclusivity on the runway. While swimsuit shows were once defined by strict standards for model appearance, today’s fashion scene puts individuality front and center. We set out to explore how beauty standards have evolved at the most prominent swimsuit shows.

Miami Swim Week is traditionally held in July at various venues around the city and brings together dozens of designers from all over the world. The first thing that strikes the eye when looking at photos from the shows is the diversity of models.

Swimsuits used to be modeled by tall, tan girls with athletic bodies, but now the stars of the show are women who defy the outdated norms of beauty. They not only radiate incredible femininity and self-confidence, but they also look more realistic and relatable. They show that beauty is not about standards but about diversity and individuality.

The shows at Miami Swim Week often convey a powerful social message, and designers seize the chance to address relevant issues. For instance, in 2018, model Mara Martin made headlines when she walked the runway with her five-month-old daughter in her arms. The mom posed for the camera while breastfeeding her baby. To protect the child from the noise, the girl wore special headphones that blocked out the sound.

In 2019, a plus-size model Ashley Alexiss became the star of one of the shows. The girl wears size 16 clothes and is 5′4″ tall, but this did not prevent her from achieving success in the modeling field. Ashley is an ambassador of several lingerie brands and has even developed her own line of clothes for plus-size women. “I know there’s no perfect body, but my body is perfect for me, and that’s enough,” declares the girl.

Professional dancer Christie Valdiserri, who has alopecia areata, also participated in the fashion show that year. She did a courageous act and removed her wig during the show. Christie wanted to inspire people who also experienced hair loss with her example.

Brazilian model Bruna Lima took the spotlight in 2021 by walking the runway while pregnant. “It felt great to embrace my 8-month bump and show that pregnant bodies are beautiful too. I can’t wait to show my daughter someday that she walked Miami Swim Week with me!” the girl shared.

In the 2022 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show, everyday women — including a physicist and a construction worker — walked alongside professional models.

What set this show apart was its inclusivity: any woman had the chance to participate. The magazine’s editors selected the finalists based on photos and videos submitted by applicants. We decided to take a closer look at some of the standout women who lit up the runway.

Hunter McGrady started her modeling career at the age of 15. However, by the age of 19, she moved from being a straight-size fashion model to a plus-size one. Today, 29-year-old Hunter is Sports Illustrated’s curviest swimsuit model and says she feels great in her natural body.

Miami Swim Week-2023 was particularly colorful. One of Sweden’s most famous models, Vendela Kirsebom, made a sensation at the traditional Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Show. This year, Vendela celebrated two milestones: her 56th birthday and her more than 40-year career in the fashion industry.

Vendela was accompanied by retired deputy dean Nina Cash, 56.

Model Jena Sims

62-year-old model Carol Alt

Paralympian Brenna Huckaby

Mom of three, Sharina Gutierrez

Being a model no longer means conforming to the once-coveted 36—24—36 (90—60—90) measurements. Today, it takes courage and resilience to defy societal norms — something the striking 75-year-old model Colleen Heidemann embodies with confidence and grace.