**Katie Austin Shines on the Runway While Expecting Her First Child**
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Katie Austin, a prominent influencer and model, recently made a striking appearance at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show, held during Miami Swim Week on May 30. At 32 weeks pregnant, Austin confidently showcased her baby bump, wearing a vibrant green bikini that turned heads as she walked the runway.
The six-time Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model expressed her joy and excitement about participating in the event while pregnant. Before the show, she spoke with PEOPLE at the SI Swimsuit Beach Club Party, revealing her thoughts on continuing her career amidst this new chapter in her life. “I feel like every time I tell someone, they’re shocked for some reason,” she remarked, referencing the reactions to her decision to walk the runway in her condition. “I’m like, ‘Yes, I’m walking.’ This is not slowing me down.’”
Austin revealed that she is currently six months along in her pregnancy, eagerly anticipating the arrival of her first child with her husband, Lane Armstrong. The couple announced their baby news via a beautiful maternity shoot on the beach, where Armstrong was seen tenderly cradling Austin’s belly. “+ 1 🤍 we’re so excited to be mom & dad!!!!” she captioned the heartfelt post shared with her followers.
Reflecting on her experience at the event, Austin commented on how she was approaching the weekend with positivity. She shared, “I just feel a different energy this year. It’s going to be really special because I feel like I have a fun accessory to play with on the runway.” This sense of excitement has clearly injected a fresh enthusiasm into her modelling experience.
However, pregnancy has prompted some adjustments for Austin, who noted feeling the physical changes that come at this stage. “I’m starting to feel myself being like, ‘Woo, we’re getting there. Oh my God, my bump is getting bigger,’” she confessed. Despite these changes, she expressed that she feels good and is enjoying the process.
Earlier this month, Austin admitted to PEOPLE that one major difference she has encountered while preparing for the runway is the absence of her usual pre-show routine of taking a tequila shot. She joked about missing this tradition, saying, “I’ll be missing that. But it’ll be good because I love the girls this year. I think this is our best group of girls yet.” The camaraderie and energy amongst her peers have certainly contributed positively to her experience.
As she prepared for her runway strut, Austin shared that she had to dedicate extra time to practice due to the physical changes brought on by her pregnancy. “I can nail a walk when I’m not pregnant, but I’m not sure how the belly is going to waddle,” she laughed, highlighting the humorous side of her situation.
Katie Austin’s presence on the runway serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength and versatility of women, especially during pivotal moments in their lives. By balancing her career and impending motherhood, she is not only paving the way for herself but potentially offering encouragement to other expectant mothers in the industry.
As the weekend progressed, it became evident that Austin was not merely walking the runway; she was also celebrating an empowering moment, embracing her pregnancy with pride. The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show continues to reaffirm that fashion is for everyone, and Katie Austin is certainly making a statement.