For the first time, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue features a plus-size bikini model. Ashley Graham is 27 and a size 16. She appears in a black bikini in an ad for a plus-size swim wear company called Swim Suits for All.

Graham's groundbreaking appearance in the swimsuit issue is not only meant to celebrate the fact no one should have to hide their body, but to usher in The Curvy Girl era. Swim Suits for All is encouraging woman to share your #CurvesInBikins. You've got it ladies, so flaunt it.


 
Hannah Davis graces the cover of this year's Swimsuit edition, replacing Kate Upton, who was the cover girl in 2013. Chrissy Teigen, Nina Agdal and Lily Aldridge appeared together for the 50th anniversary edition last year. The cover was revealed on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

Davis has appeared in the issue in the past but this is her first cover, an honor she didn't expect. "I told my mom there was no way I'd get the cover. They do beaches for covers and I'm on a farm. There's no way. It's not possible," she explained in a Sports Illustrated statement.

The shot was taken at Tennessee's Blackberry Farm.

The 2015 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue launches online Monday, Feb. 9, with the print edition on newsstands Tuesday, Feb. 10. Launch Week festivities continue all next week in New York City and Nashville with the first SI Swimsuit Fan Festival.


 
A round of applause for Sports Illustrated recognizing not all women are a size 0. Real women have curves!

Do you agree with their decision to include Graham or should they leave well enough alone? Share your opinion below.


loading...

Stay Connected


Instagram

More From 96.1 The Eagle