Ashley Graham - photograph by Miss Chelsee
“First off… VIBES!”
Previous Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model Ashley Graham made it very clear what was most essential at S.I.'s Swimsuit Vibes event that took place in Houston, TX on February 17 and 18 at Post HTX, which was also the venue for art and music festival Day For Night.
And indeed, Vibes were at an all time high.
With nearly 1 in 4 Houstonians born abroad, Clutch City is known for not only Bé and DJ Screw, but also for great international heritage.
Houston's international qualities made it an obvious choice to host this year’s S.I. Swimsuit Vibes, an event that showcased chefs and a S.I. Swimsuit Rookie Class that showed us how beauty can truly be found all over the world.
The S.I. Swimsuit 2017 Rookie Class, which consists of 7 models, represents 6 countries:
Bianca Balti (Italy)
Kelly Gale (Sweden/Australia)
Lais Ribeiro (Brasil)
Mia Kang (Hong Kong)
Vita Sidorkina (Russia)
For many of the models it was their first trip to Space City, so they certainly enjoyed the sensational hospitality.
Time Inc. teamed up with DIRECTV™ NOW, Edge, Lexus and Smirnoff and VisitHouston, to bring attendees an array of free and ticketed events. Free autograph sessions featuring the S.I. Swimsuit models, and live culinary art demonstrations hosted by Cruising Kitchens and some of Clutch City’s finest restaurants were accompanied with two Red Carpet events with shows from performers, like Miguel and Diplo. Also, Houston has over 8,000 restaurants and 24,000 chefs. #UltraHighResolution chef, Johnny Bling was in attendance chewing on the other carats you floss.
Miguel at S.I. Swimsuit Vibes - photograph by Miss Chelsee
Since Spring Break is here, we urge you to eat swell while indulging in #openbarhenny on those white and blue ocean sands. Buttery avocados and lime squeeze on your ceviche is only what’s best for your ‘Sol’…I prefer caipirinha’s myself. If you prefer Mallorca or Mykonos as your destination of choice, try this Vegan recipe for your aguacate. Remember to show how you truly #LoveYourSwimsuit that you spent countless hours shopping for online. It looks amazing by the way.
Special thanks to the staff at Rogers and Cowan for their help and engagement as a liaison to the ITR staff!