Alix Earle is truly a gem.
The 25-year-old influencer is returning to Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue for a third year. Glossy unveiled its first model on Tuesday, and Earl was joined by military veterans Camille Kostek, Achen Agtu, Penny Lane and Meredith Mickelson.
The group was photographed by Botswana’s Reuven Afanador, with the 25-year-old Dancing with the Stars alum modeling Audrey Blake’s bikini.
According to the brand’s Instagram, the tiny top is covered in 1,000 real pearls and crystal beads. She paired this look with Miko linen shorts and knee-high Seychelles lace-up boots.
Earle made history in 2024 as the first-ever Sports Illustrated Swimsuit digital cover star, and made her debut in the print magazine the following year.
In 2025, she wore a bikini made from another unconventional material, flaunting her curves with a crocheted piece by Libertlas and a glamorous body chain by Jackie Aish x Tropics of Sea.
This year has been a big year for the University of Miami graduate. Not only did she come in second place on ‘DWTS’, she also appeared on the Netflix reality show.
She has also risen to prominence in the fashion world. Most recently, she wore a $48,000 Gucci coat and attended the 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a stunning vintage Bob Mackie.
She was certainly in the spotlight at the star-studded event for her relationship with Tom Brady. When asked who she would like to take a selfie with at the bash, she had a sharp answer.
“Honestly, there’s no one,” Earl said. “Maybe I should try and get someone’s phone number or something?”
I’m sure people will call her if they see her Sports Illustrated story going viral.
