Crochet, Denim, Cut-Outs and Fringe Ruled During Ellie Thumann’s Debut in Puerto Rico

The YouTuber nailed her SI Swimsuit feature with photographer Derek Kettela last year.

Ananya Panchal | Feb 23, 2024

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico.

Derek Kettela/Sports Illustrated

YouTube sensation Ellie Thumann, who is best known for her fashion, lifestyle and beauty channel, made her SI Swimsuit debut in Puerto Rico last year. The 2023 rookie nailed her poses and looked absolutely gorgeous and glowy in several fun, unique and upcycled denim or blue jean-inspired bikinis. Almost a year later, we’re still in awe of the results.

The Arizona native uses her social media platforms to share regular style inspo and aesthetic pics of her daily life, modeling gigs and travel opportunities. She has created a close-knit community through her vulnerability and as an advocate for mental health awareness. Since she started vlogging in 2014, the 22-year-old has built her own personal brand and worked with fashion industry giants including Marc Jacobs, Levi’s, Kate Spade, Reebok, Coach, Hollister and more. She’s currently living her best life during Milan Fashion Week, and sitting front row at the Max Mara show.

“I think I attribute my success to starting at a young age and when it wasn’t a very common thing or something that was as normalized as it is now. Sticking through it and working with my family—that really helped support me,” Thumann said, adding that she really does her best to show the good, the bad and the messy aspects of her life, instead of just a highlight reel. “I’ve always tried to keep it that way. It’s always been very important to me [to be authentic]. Do it for yourself and show up as yourself because it reads so much better. [Do] what you want to do and people will love that and you’ll find your people that support and appreciate you for doing that. At the end of the day, this is Ellie and this is all she can be.”

Below are six jaw-dropping pics from her time with photographer Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico.

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by ELSE Lingerie. Chaps by Denimcratic.

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Monica Hansen Beachwear.

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Top by Denimcratic. Bottoms by netta

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Andi Bagus. Rings by Chikahisa Studio.

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Swim Like A Mermaid.

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by Andi Bagus.

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico. Swimsuit by OYE Swimwear.

Published Feb 23, 2024

ANANYA PANCHAL

Ananya Panchal is a writer on the Lifestyle and Trending News team for SI Swimsuit. Before joining SI Swimsuit in 2022, she worked at Bustle, the San Francisco Chronicle and the TODAY Show. When she is not writing or doom-scrolling on social media, Panchal can be found playing sudoku, rewatching One Tree Hill or trying new restaurants. She's also a coffee and chocolate (separately) enthusiast. Panchal has a bachelor’s in communications and journalism from Boston University.