Sara Sampaio Models Western-Inspired Bikinis Along Route 66

The Portuguese model returned to the SI Swimsuit Issue in 2015 after winning Rookie of the Year in ’14.

Sara Sampaio.Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

When Portuguese model Sara Sampaio joined the SI Swimsuit family in 2014, she traveled to the Jersey Shore for a bright and beautiful photoshoot with Ben Watts. Her beachside feature was so impressive, it earned Sampaio Rookie of the Year honors. 

She returned to the fold the following year, but this time, Sampaio traveled to a different location entirely. For her feature in the 2015 SI Swimsuit Issue, the 32-year-old modeled a number of western-inspired swimwear looks as she traveled along Route 66 with photographer Ben Morris. 

That same year, Sampaio became a Victoria’s Secret Angel. Since then, she has walked the runway for notable brands like Elisabetta Franchi and starred in Paris Fashion Week shows for various designers. Sampaio has also landed magazine covers with InStyle Germany and Harper’s Bazaar España, among others.

“I like traveling, to be honest, and I hate it. It’s like the best and worst part of it,” she told CultureMap Houston of her favorite aspects of the industry, which come at a price. “You get to meet so many people, work with incredibly creative people. You get to go to places that you never thought of. They take you to warm places in the winter. It’s pretty good.”

While both of Sampaio’s back-to-back SI Swimsuit features resulted in some incredible images, today we’re throwing it back to her sophomore feature along Route 66. If you’re in need of some road tripping inspiration for the year ahead, look no further than these stunning snaps.

Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

Ben Morris/Sports Illustrated

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