The annual ‘Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’ Runway Show took place on May 30, 2023, in Miami Beach, showcasing an array of stunning swimwear designs amidst a backdrop of glitz and glamour. This year’s event marked a particularly lively partnership with the well-known skin and body care brand, Vaseline, which served as the official body oil partner for the show.
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Held at the glamorous W South Beach hotel, the runway event attracted a diverse roster of models, including newcomers such as Maura Higgins, Remi Bader, and Tiffany Haddish, alongside familiar faces like Camille Kostek, Brooks Nader, and Alix Earle. PEOPLE magazine was on hand to provide an exclusive glimpse into the vibrant festivities, capturing moments from the pre-event celebrations to the dazzling display of swimwear on the catwalk.
Preparations for the show kicked off with the SI Swimsuit Beach Club Party on the evening of May 29. At this exciting gathering, attendees enjoyed mingling with multiple cover stars and fresh talent, including 2025 Swim Search winner Tunde Oyeneyin. Oyeneyin, who made a notable entrance in a bikini showcasing her toned abs, has expressed pride in representing ‘muscular girls.’ Her partnership with Vaseline is particularly fitting, given her commitment to highlighting strong feminine aesthetics.
During the event, Oyeneyin spoke fondly of her long-standing relationship with Vaseline, recalling how she grew up using the product for various skin concerns. “It’s an iconic brand that has always been there for me,” she reflected, emphasising how Vaseline’s appeal has evolved beyond merely a remedy to become a necessity for runway-ready skin.
As the models prepared backstage, Vaseline’s travel-size Glazed & Glisten Gel Oil emerged as a favourite product among the team. Celebrity makeup artist Allison Kaye, who worked with model Hunter McGrady, described the body oil as essential for achieving the radiant, bronzed look synonymous with Miami. “It’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, so we’re doing a glowy, bronzed appearance,” Kaye noted while detailing the extensive application of the oil to McGrady’s shoulders, chest, and even the tops of her hands and feet to achieve a youthful appearance.
Kaye also incorporated Vaseline’s Jelly Stick to enhance McGrady’s facial features, applying it to the tip of her nose and cheekbones for a touch of sparkle. McGrady, donning an eye-catching sequin ensemble alongside other standout outfits, felt that the carefully curated glam not only accentuated her best features but also boosted her confidence amidst the warmth of camaraderie found behind the scenes.
“This community of women is so special,” McGrady commented, highlighting the supportive environment fostered among the models. She described how this sense of solidarity significantly contributes to their self-esteem and comfort on stage. “We uplift one another, which really helps us feel confident and beautiful in our own unique ways,” she added, reflecting on the electric atmosphere backstage.
The anticipation for the runway show heightened as the day approached. With Vaseline’s innovative products playing a starring role in enhancing the models’ appearances, the event promised to deliver not just exceptional fashion, but a striking celebration of body positivity and empowerment.
Viewers eager to catch the glamour and beauty of the show can look forward to the broadcast of the 2026 SI Swimsuit Runway Show, which will stream on Hulu and Disney+ starting June 9. This collaboration between the iconic publication and Vaseline not only brought together an impressive array of talent and creativity but also underscored a commitment to diversity and self-expression within the fashion industry.