It’s Miami Swim Week–an annual showcase of the best beachwear of the season–and models are strutting down the runway in the bikinis, one-pieces and everything between. But for model Halima Aden, who stands firm in her Muslim faith, it was important to not opt-out of the event but to make a statement. Aden opened up the 2019 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show in a floral burkini designed by Cynthia Rowley reading, “Don’t Change Yourself, Change the Game” on the sleeves. “Halima is a true role model and I feel so lucky to be able to help spread her message and encourage women around the world to live with a sense of adventure,” said Rowley.
“Halima is a true role model and I feel so lucky to be able to help spread her message and encourage women around the world to live with a sense of adventure.”
Aden partnered with Rowley to design this piece in effort to continue the conversation of female empowerment. This isn’t the duo’s first collaboration–earlier this year, Aden became the first model to cover Sports Illustrated in a burkini which was also designed by Rowley.
Purchase Halima Aden’s Cynthia Rowley burkini here.