Shop the Must-Have Black Knix Bikini Worn by Katie Austin in Her SI Swimsuit Shoot, Fashionable and Practical

The model returned to the publication for her third year and was photographed in the Dominican Republic.

Katie Austin was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic.James Macari/Sports Illustrated

For her third year with SI Swimsuit, Katie Austin traveled to the Dominican Republic for a gorgeous beachside photo shoot with James Macari. Her first year with the brand, the certified fitness trainer and health coach was named co-winner of the 2021 Swim Search and earned co-Rookie of the Year status in ’22.

The 29-year-old tells SI Swimsuit that her third experience with the brand has been her favorite yet.

“This year I think is the best ever. I feel more confident than ever,” Austin says. “It’s my third year. I was Rookie of the Year last year, I did Swim Search the year before that, so I just feel like I am more confident and I know everybody, I know the team.”

She adds that this year’s photo shoot in the Dominican Republic, which was styled to embrace a Barbiecore aesthetic, was very natural with wet hair and simple glam. While Austin rocked a number of styles on set, her basic black Knix bikini was one of our favorites. Not only did the set photograph beautifully, it’s also functional—the go-to period-proof undergarment brand features the very same leakproof technology in several of its bikini and one-piece swimwear options.

Shop the look—and additional styles from the brand—below.

Knix Scoop Bikini Top, $55 and Leakproof Swim Bikini Bottom $50 (knix.com)

Katie Austin was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by Knix. Bracelets by Alexis Bittar.

James Macari/Sports Illustrated

While Austin opted for the classic black two-piece, this Knix top is also available in four vibrant shades and two lovely prints. Mix and match with the leakproof bottoms, which provide medium coverage and have a built-in absorbent period-proof liner, also offered in a bright red color and black-and-white hibiscus pattern.

Below are two additional SI Swimsuit-approved picks from Knix.

Scoop Bikini Top, $55 and Sculpt High Rise High Cut Swim Bottom, $45 (knix.com)

knix.com

We love the top in this vibrant purple hue, which pairs perfectly with the brand’s high-cut bottoms if you’re looking for a bit of a cheekier option with some compression.

Leakproof Classic One-Piece Swimsuit, $100 (knix.com)

knix.com

Whether you seek a modest option for the beach or pool, look no further. This one-piece not only offers full coverage, it also absorbs about as much liquid as three regular sized tampons, so you don’t have to worry about period leaks. Pair it with the Sarong ($35) in the same stunning color for an added layer of protection—and style.

Shop Knix’s complete line of swimwear, including Sports Illustrated Picks, here.

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