Shattering Boundaries with Diversity and Inclusion at Sports Illustrated

 

In the vibrant heart of Miami, at the annual Sports Illustrated Casting, W South Beach transformed into a floating runway, hosting over 5,000 models and setting the stage for an unforgettable event. For Bruna, the renowned swimsuit designer, this was not just an occasion—it was a culmination of a childhood dream.

The highlight of the evening was Bruna's unique swimsuit design, worn with grace by the exceptional model, Courtney Lynne. As Bruna watched her vision come to life on the prestigious Sports Illustrated runway, it marked one of her proudest moments. The significance went beyond the aesthetics; her design played a part in celebrating diversity and inclusivity.

The runway unfolded on July 14, 2019, becoming a platform not just for fashion but for important issues. Designers like Bruna took center stage, promoting socially conscious swimwear that emphasized sustainability and philanthropy. Halima Aden set the tone with a powerful message on her custom-designed burkini by Cynthia Rowley: "DON’T CHANGE YOURSELF, CHANGE THE GAME."

This year's Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show made history with Halima Aden, the first SI model to wear a hijab and burkini. Bruna, too, contributed to this narrative, showcasing swimwear that embraced different ages and backgrounds, including a 55-year-old model, a fitness instructor with alopecia, and a former dancer with an undiagnosed illness.

The star-studded lineup included the 2019 Model Search Winner Brooks Nader and SI models Camille Kostek, Jasmine Sanders, Kate Bock, Robin Holzken, and Vita Sidorkina. The event wasn't confined to the runway; W South Beach, the mecca of Miami Swim Week, hosted Badgely Mishka's W Swim Fashion Bazaar, featuring exclusive pop-ups, model-led fitness classes, wellness conversations, and star-studded parties.

W South Beach became the epicenter of a celebration where fashion, diversity, and inclusivity converged. Bruna's designs played a crucial role in this narrative, leaving an indelible mark on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show.