Sports Illustrated
RUNWAY SHOW
The Sports Illustrated Runway Show made history this year by breaking the mold on what has been considered the industry standard for swimwear models and body types. Although there were a few models that represented the industry standard look, the S.I. catwalk mostly consisted of average, plus sized, physically challenged, and older aged models that S.I. Editor M.J. Day feels better represents the true demographic of women in society. The show kicked off with model Halima Aden wearing a Burkini by Designer Cynthia Rowley which widens the swimwear options available for women of the Muslim faith.
Also featured was 55 year old Kathy Jacobs (the oldest model to walk for S.I.), Dancer & Fitness Instructor Christie Valdiserri, who lives with Alopecia and walked down the runway in a blonde wig before taking it off to reveal her shaved head, and model Djaniel Carter, who was wheeled down the runway by M.J. Day in a wheelchair. A press release on the S.I. Instgram page read... "After several years as a professional dancer, @djaniiel sustained traumatic injuries to both of her legs and has been battling an underlying medical condition that has yet to be diagnosed. Despite the fact that she has a weakened ability to walk and stand, she has not let that stop her from pursuing her dreams." It was a very inspiring and touching moment at the show. Although S.I. Super Models Danielle Herrington and Kate Bock were in attendance, neither walked in the runway show.