Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue - The Cover Girl, The Swimsuits

OK, David Letterman let us all know last night that Irina Shayk is the new, 2011 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Girl, and yes, she's gorgeous!  Well deserved, I say...congrats!  There are lots of beautiful models this year in SI and they weren't your typical bikini girls.  There was a fresh bouquet of unusual faces, great bodies, loads of sex appeal, what can I say?  All of the the girls were all fantastic!  

Then, there's the bikinis...

We were so happy to see some of our favorite labels in there this year.  With the economy being what it is, the designers and manufacturers need a few kudos to keep them swimming through these murky waters.  Hats off to Agua Bendita for getting that adorable, Bendita Francia Bikini into Sports Illustrated this year, (modeled by Hilary Rhoda.)    Maaji put one of my favorites in the mag; Turquoise Barricades Bikini, also modeled by Hilary Rhoda.

Bendita Francia Bikini by Agua Bendita Swimwear

Turquoise Barricades Bikini by Maaji Swimwear

Newcomers, Mikoh Swimwear also made a big splash with several of their sweet bikinis, including the St. Lucia-Moorea Bikini, shown throughout SI in several colors.  Marysia made a showing, as did Lenny, Karla Colletto, Salinas, Red Carter and L*Space.

St. Lucia-Moorea  Bikini by Mikoh  

There were many other great swimwear companies featured.  We hope to bring you some of their styles in the near future.  Until then, enjoy this season's Sports Illustrated Swimsuits and bikinis.

~ C.