2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show Highlights

A parade of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit models took center stage at the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show in Miami Beach. Taking place on a Saturday night during Swim Week, the event featured an array of models, athletes, influencers, and celebrities. The runway turned heads with striking looks and introduced new beachwear trends.

Among the familiar faces and new names this year were Brooks Nader, Camille Kostek, Alix Earle, Molly Sims, and Katie Austin, who is currently expecting her first child. Alix Earle caught attention in a shimmering golden two-piece ensemble, while also stunning in a nautical-themed two-piece.

Alix Earle was a standout at the Swimsuit Runway Show. (Photo: Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated)

Molly Sims made a statement with a gingham one-piece, showcasing a daring V-neck design, paired with sunlit hair and radiant skin. Her modeling journey with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit began in 2000, posing for her eighth time this year in various swimsuits, including an orange string bikini against a picturesque ocean backdrop.

Molly Sims and Christen Goff shared the stage, with Sims reminiscing on Instagram about her long-standing relationship with the magazine. “If only I could tell the 20-something version of me … she’d still be here at 52 … feeling more beautiful and confident,” she shared.

Brooks Nader, who joined the Swimsuit edition’s legacy with a rookie spot in 2020, shone in a sleek black one-piece. Already a noted personality since winning the 2019 open casting, she hinted at her upcoming role in the “Baywatch” reboot.

Katie Austin brought a unique presence to this year’s fashion show, taking to the runway six months pregnant. “Everything’s different this year,” Austin said, highlighting how her routine has shifted. She emphasized the importance of feeling good over adhering to past regimens.

The 2026 issue, unveiled in May, features cover models such as Alix Earle, Nicole Williams English, Hilary Duff, and Tiffany Haddish. Other notable models include Nader, Hunter McGrady, Jena Sims, and Christen Goff.

In a statement from MJ Day, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s editor-in-chief, it was highlighted how the selection process focuses on women and stories that resonate. The diverse 2026 issue embodies individuality through each woman’s unique contributions and journeys.

Hunter McGrady, celebrated for her advocacy for body positivity, stands out as the curviest model in the edition’s history. This iteration of the Swimsuit Issue captures shots across various locations, from Botswana to Baja California Sur.

Since its inception in 1964, the Swimsuit Issue has been a platform for models like Kathy Ireland, Christie Brinkley, and Ashley Graham. Adapting over the years, it has stayed fresh with innovations such as painted bikinis, plus-sized and unedited photo features, as well as welcoming professional athletes and celebrities.

As the current issue hits newsstands, the runway show will soon be available for streaming, commencing June 9 on Hulu and Disney+. Among the presenters, Jasmine Sanders, known as the ‘golden Barbie,’ and recent ‘Rookie of the Year’ Jena Sims emphasize the evolving and dynamic nature of the Swimsuit legacy.