Swimsuit

The 1970s Were an Incredible Decade for the SI Swimsuit Issue

Take a look back at each magazine cover between 1970 and ’79 here.

Cara O’Bleness

Christie Brinkley

Christie Brinkley was photographed by Walter Iooss Jr. in Brazil for the 1978 SI Swimsuit Issue.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the SI Swimsuit Issue. As we approach the publication of the 2024 edition in May, it’s only natural to look back at the many magazine issues that came before it.

The 1970s were an incredible time for the publication, thanks in large part not only to the talent that appeared within the pages of the magazine, but due to founding editor Jule Campbell’s tireless dedication as a feminist trailblazer. Campbell was the first to insist on featuring models’ names within the pages of the magazine, an act that was unheard of at the time. In doing so, she helped give models an identity outside of just a photograph on a page.

“Jule Campbell created a hugely storied brand that has led to the success of so many women and brands and individuals,” SI Swimsuit editor in chief MJ Day has said of Campbell, who stepped down from her role in 1996. “And it’s not just swimsuit models that she’s impacted; it’s the businesses behind the swimwear industry, as well. Jule was a creative in every sense of the word.”

Brand stars like Cheryl Tiegs and Christie Brinkley were regulars in the SI Swimsuit Issue in the 1970s. Tiegs was featured in seven brand photo shoots (including two covers) throughout the decade, while Brinkley earned four features (including one cover). Along with the other women who posed for the publication, they helped pave the way for many others to come. 

Below, we’re throwing it back to the iconic SI Swimsuit Issue covers from that decade.

Tannia Rubiano

Tannia Rubiano

Sheila Roscoe

Shelia Roscoe

Dayle Haddon

Dayle Haddon

Cheryl Tiegs

Cheryl Tiegs

Yvette Sylvander and Yvonne Sylvander

Yvette Sylvander and Yvonne Sylvander

Lena Kansbond

Lena Kansbond

Maria Joao

Maria Joao

Christie Brinkley

Christie Brinkley

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Cara O’Bleness

CARA O’BLENESS

Cara is a trending news writer/editor for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. A passionate writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience in print and online media, she loves storytelling and believes that words have the power to change the world. Prior to joining the team, Cara worked as a writer and editor across a number of content verticals, including food, lifestyle, health and wellness, and small business and entrepreneurship. In her free time, Cara loves reading, spending time with her family and making her way through Michigan’s many microbreweries. She is a graduate of Michigan State University's School of Journalism.