Sports Illustrated Swimsuit

Book excerpt: A WORLDWIDE PHENOMENON The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has captured imaginations for 50 years with its annual celebration of the world's most exquisite bodies. From cover girls Christie Brinkley to Heidi Klum to Kate Upton, this yearly publishing sensation has launched the careers of so many supermodels. Elle, Tyra and Brooklyn have become household names. In Swimsuit: 50 Years of Beautiful, SI reveals the inside story of how what began as an eight-page travel piece has emerged as one of the most powerful--and hotly anticipated--media events of the year, with a global audience of more than 70 million. This alluring anniversary edition features: Star athletes in swimsuits The magic of bodypainting Never-before-seen outtakes All the iconic covers Every model who has graced the issue is here, from Cheryl Tiegs in her fishnet suit to Kathy Ireland and her record 12 appearances. Swimsuit: 50 Years of Beautiful is the definitive account of an extraordinary publication illuminated by hundreds of unique and breathtaking photographs--stunning women in captivating poses in exotic locales. Beautiful.