Elle Macpherson: The Supermodel Who Changed Sports Illustrated Forever
Elle Macpherson, also known as The Body, is one of the most iconic models of all time. Her beauty and talent have graced the pages of countless magazines, but perhaps her most memorable work was for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. In fact, Macpherson’s impact on the magazine and its design has been so significant that it continues to be talked about to this day.
Macpherson’s first appearance in Sports Illustrated was in 1986, and her stunning photoshoots quickly made her a fan favorite. However, it was her 1987 shoot that truly set her apart. In that issue, Macpherson was featured on the cover, wearing a red bikini and posing in front of a white background. This may sound like a simple design choice, but it was actually a groundbreaking departure from the magazine’s usual style.
Before Macpherson’s 1987 cover, Sports Illustrated had a very specific design aesthetic. The covers were often busy and cluttered, with multiple models and detailed backgrounds. However, Macpherson’s cover was clean, modern, and minimalist. It focused solely on her beauty and the swimsuit she was wearing, and it was a huge hit with readers.
In fact, Macpherson’s cover was so successful that Sports Illustrated continued to use similar designs for many years afterward. This new style, which focused on the model and the swimsuit, became known as The Elle Macpherson Type Design.
Today, The Elle Macpherson Type Design is still a popular choice for magazine covers and advertisements. It’s a testament to Macpherson’s enduring influence on the world of fashion and design. And, of course, it’s a reminder of just how stunning she looked in that red bikini.
In addition to her impact on Sports Illustrated, Macpherson has also had a successful career as a businesswoman. She’s launched her own lingerie line, Elle Macpherson Intimates, and she continues to work as a model and actress. But no matter what she’s doing, Macpherson will always be remembered as the supermodel who changed Sports Illustrated forever.
If you’re looking to learn more about Elle Macpherson and her impact on the world of fashion, there are plenty of resources available. From books to documentaries, there’s no shortage of content about this iconic figure. And of course, you can always revisit those classic Sports Illustrated covers and marvel at just how stunning she looked in that red bikini.
