Ashley Graham Is Back for SI Swimsuit Issue, Serena Williams Wears Thong Bikini for the First Time
This year's edition of the magazine brings back the 29-year-old plus-sized model and the 35-year-old tennis athlete, who models a thong-style bikini bottom for the first time.
Fresh off her first cover of Vogue earlier this month, Ashley Graham has returned to Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. The 29-year-old model has secured a spot among the sports magazine's models this year, after becoming the first plus-sized woman gracing the cover of last year's edition of the magazine.
A proud Ashley took to her Instagram account on Wednesday, February 15 to share a photo of her that was taken from her photo shoot. She could be seen showing a lot of skin in a white triangle-shaped bikini top, with gold studs embed on it. She also wore a pair of hoop earrings and matching accessories.
In a behind-the-scenes video, Ashley wore many other sexy bikinis. In the clip published by the magazine, she described the photo shoot as having "high-end Vogue vibes."
She also revealed that being chosen as the cover girl for the issue last year completely changed her life. "Now I'm being told, actually, yes, you are beautiful. You are the epitome of what should be a part of diversity and change in the fashion industry," she said.
Serena explained in a behind-the-scenes video, "I've never worn a thong bikini, so for that to be my first shot was like a shot of espresso for me because I had to wake up immediately." She added, "The thong is perfect, it really made me feel comfortable. I'm officially a thong girl now!"
This year's cover star for the SI Swimsuit issue is Kate Upton, who has been granted the honor for the third time. It also features pregnant Hannah Davis, Chrissy Teigen, Simone Biles, Aly Raisman and 63-year-old Christie Brinkley in the spreads. The magazine is currently on sale.
