Key Takeaways

  • Lizzo is the July 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit digital cover model.
  • She wore a black bikini from her Yitty Swim line.
  • The shoot took place in South Florida, featuring various swimwear designs.
  • Lizzo embraces body positivity and anticipates mixed reactions.

Lizzo Makes History

Lizzo has been named the digital cover model for the July 2026 issue of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, showcasing her in a striking black bikini from her own Yitty Swim line. This moment is one she and her team envisioned years ago while developing the swimwear brand.

Confidence and Representation

In an interview with Paper magazine, Lizzo expressed her belief in the power of dreams. “Every time I do Yitty Swim, I always feel like it’s Sports Illustrated level. When I believe what I dream, it comes true,” she stated. Growing up, she never thought someone with her body type would grace the cover of such a prestigious magazine. “It’s just incredible to see how we’ve redefined sexy and confidence since I was a kid,” she added.

Behind the Scenes of the Shoot

The cover features Lizzo in a custom black bikini, styled with a sheer sarong and Ralph Lauren earrings. The photoshoot took place at a Spanish-style mansion and a yacht club in South Florida, capturing her in various outfits, including a chartreuse two-piece and a gold one-piece adorned with Chloé shell earrings.

Body Positivity and Anticipated Backlash

Lizzo is aware that her cover might provoke some criticism. “Seeing this cover of me all sexy and fat and fabulous in my Yitty Swim may trigger some people,” she remarked. Her response is unapologetic: “Stay triggered.” She also discussed her recent weight gain, noting it was a deliberate choice to embrace a fuller figure.

Upcoming Projects

In addition to her cover shoot, Lizzo headlined the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show during Miami Swim Week, wearing an electric blue one-piece that referenced her recent album. Looking ahead, she is set to star in a biopic about Sister Rosetta Tharpe and will release her first children’s book this fall.