Winnie Harlow Inspired on the Beaches of Great Exuma During Her SI Swim Photo Shoot

The model became the first person with vitiligo to grace the pages of the magazine in 2019.

Winnie Harlow was photographed by Laretta Houston in Great Exuma, Bahamas.Laretta Houston/Sports Illustrated

Winnie Harlow made history when she set foot on the set of her SI Swimsuit photo shoot in 2019. She traveled to Great Exuma, Bahamas to pose in front of photographer Laretta Houston’s camera, and become the first person with vitiligo to be featured within the pages of the annual magazine.

It was momentous for a variety of reasons. For one, Harlow viewed it as an important “milestone” in her career. “Being able to say that I am in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue is an absolute dream that I never thought would come true,” Harlow said in an interview with People at the time.

It was significant for another reason, too. Harlow felt the importance of the feature as “a woman of color with vitiligo.” For her, joining the ranks of the SI Swimsuit family meant more than just a modeling job, it meant being an inspiration to others.

“There are certain milestones in a model’s career that just make you feel like you have truly succeeded when they happen,” the 29-year-old told People of the occasion, “and making my SI Swim debut is one of those huge moments.”

We at SI Swimsuit felt the immensity of the moment much as Harlow did. It was truly inspiring, and the photos truly speak to that.

Below are just a handful of the lovely snaps from Harlow’s trip to the Bahamas, in which she modeled several stunning one-pieces and bikinis on the beach.

Laretta Houston/Sports Illustrated

Laretta Houston/Sports Illustrated

Laretta Houston/Sports Illustrated

Laretta Houston/Sports Illustrated

Make sure to follow SI Swimsuit on YouTube!