Lizzo makes a bold statement with her first Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover

Lizzo stars on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover, embracing body confidence and her size-inclusive Yitty Swim line

Lizzo has reached a major fashion milestone after becoming the July 2026 digital cover model for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, celebrating body confidence and inclusivity through her Yitty Swim brand.

The Grammy-winning singer appeared on the cover wearing a black Yitty Swim bikini, paired with a custom sheer black sarong and accessories from Ralph Lauren. The shoot showcased Lizzo in a variety of swimwear looks, including gold and colourful Yitty designs, as she highlighted her vision of redefining beauty standards.

 

 

 

 

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In an interview for the cover story, Lizzo said the moment was something she had imagined for years while building Yitty, the size-inclusive fashion label she launched in 2022. She explained that she always felt the brand’s swimwear belonged at a level like Sports Illustrated Swimsuit and said seeing the dream become reality was meaningful.

The singer also reflected on growing up without seeing many people with her body type represented on major fashion covers. She said the industry has changed by expanding ideas around confidence, beauty and what defines a swimsuit body.

Addressing potential criticism of the cover, Lizzo said she expected some people to react negatively but remained confident in her appearance and message.

The two-day photoshoot took place in South Florida, featuring locations including a Spanish-style mansion and a yacht club setting. Lizzo also appeared at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show during Miami Swim Week, where she performed in a Yitty swimsuit inspired by her latest music.

The “Truth Hurts” singer recently discussed her intentional weight gain, explaining that she wanted to feel stronger and more comfortable in her body rather than follow outside expectations.

Alongside her fashion projects, Lizzo is preparing for upcoming projects including a Sister Rosetta Tharpe biopic and her first children’s book.