Bethenny's SI Swimsuit Prep

Bethenny Frankel didn’t set out to become a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit rookie at 55. And honestly, that’s kind of the point.

“This was never on my bucket list, but the true honor was being chosen and having the experience with the crew and the people from Sports Illustrated,” Bethenny says. “It was so much fun to go there, be confident, lean into it and take chances, be free, and just be one with nature. Strangely, orchestrated attention makes me uncharacteristically shy—but this was just fun to accomplish. So thank you all for having fun with me, whether it's in a robe, pajamas, or a bikini.”

That sense of ease carried through everything leading up to the shoot in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The beach has always been where Bethenny feels most like herself, and this time was no different. That’s why preparing for Sports Illustrated looked a lot like how she already lives: walking, taking care of her skin, eating in a way that feels balanced, and not overthinking any of it. 

Because for Bethenny, this “supermodel era” has never been about becoming someone else. It’s about knowing what works, sticking to it, and showing up exactly as you are.