Ashley Graham thinks her curves are sexy, and she wants other women to embrace theirs, as well.
The 27-year old model is set to make history later this month when Sports Illustrated features an ad for Swimsuits For All, in which she’s wearing a revealing black string bikini. While that’s not new territory for the magazine, the model herself is; Graham is a well-known plus-size model, and her appearance in the magazine will mark a first in its long history.
Graham said in a recent statement that she thinks too many women hide their bodies, and she aims to change that.
“I know my curves are sexy and I want everyone else to know that theirs are too. There is no reason to hide and every reason to flaunt. The world is ready for more curves in bikinis. Swimsuits For All helps women feel confident and sexy in swimsuits, and I am so thrilled to be a part of the #CurvesinBikinis campaign!” Ashley Graham said.
Secret's out!! So honored to be the face of #CurvesInBikinis for @swimsuitsforall! Can't wait for the… http://t.co/jgPgWXjHpt
— Ashley Graham (@theashleygraham) February 4, 2015
Graham wrote in a recent editorial for Net-A-Porter that her size has fluctuated several times over the years–like many women, she gained weight as a teenager during a time of change, when she moved to New York on her own–but now, at a size 14, she’s happy.
“It’s not about conforming; it’s a size I feel good at. I am always being asked to gain or lose weight, but I am at a point now where I don’t care anymore. I love my body, I love my super-hourglass shape and I love showing it off,” Ashley Graham wrote.
Graham will appear in Sports Illustrated on February 9.