Madisin Rian Was the Epitome of a Beach Babe During Her SI Swim Photoshoot in the Dominican Republic

The 2023 rookie was photographed by James Macari in the Caribbean.

Ananya Panchal | Oct 19, 2023

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic.

James Macari/Sports Illustrated

2023 SI Swimsuit rookie Madisin Rian was a breathtaking beauty during her photoshoot with the magazine in the Dominican Republic with photographer James Macari.

The model is best known as being the face of Giorgio Armani Beauty, but she has also starred in major brand campaigns with Donna Karan, Stuart Weitzman, J.Crew and Polo Ralph Lauren.

The 31-year-old was discovered in 2008 and has since strived to increase diversity and inclusion in the industry, while serving as representation for Black women everywhere. Six years ago, the St. Louis native made a barrier-breaking decision to shave her head.

“I just woke up one day and I just buzzed it off. I did that because I just wanted to be free,” she said. “I think that Black women are judged a lot by their hair, and for me, I just wanted to be free of all limitations and just change the narrative that like, as a woman, you don’t need hair to be beautiful. We have spirits. We’re actual human beings. And beauty is not defined just by the length of your hair, the texture of your hair, or makeup or anything.”

Rian added that it was a truly liberating feeling and she’ll never go back.

“What I’m doing is definitely, in my opinion, making a statement and changing a narrative for just women in general, but especially Black women in fashion,” she continued.

Below are six of our favorite photos from Rian’s SI Swimsuit photoshoot in the Dominican Republic.

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by Cleonie Swim.

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by GOD SAVE QUEENS.

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by Gonza. Earrings by Alexis Bittar.

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by BANANHOT. Bracelets provided by New York Vintage.

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by Gottex provided by Brent Edward Vintage. Earrings by Christian Lacroix provided by New York Vintage.

Madisin Rian was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by Ola Vida.

Now through Nov. 1, 100% of SI Swimsuit’s portion of proceeds from cover prints purchased here will be donated to the Maui Strong Fund, which is helping to support the people and places of Maui affected by the recent wildfires.

Shop Now and Make a Difference

Published Oct 19, 2023

ANANYA PANCHAL

Ananya Panchal is a NYC-based Lifestyle & Trending News writer at SI Swimsuit. Before joining the Swim team, the Boston University Alum worked for culture & entertainment beats at Bustle, The San Francisco Chronicle and the TODAY Show. When Ananya is not writing or doom-scrolling on social media, she can be found playing sudoku, rewatching One Tree Hill or trying new restaurants. She's also a coffee and chocolate (separately) enthusiast.