In the often highly standardized world of fashion, certain images mark a turning point. Denise Bidot’s appearance on the cover of Sports Illustrated in a swimsuit is one of them.
A pioneer of body diversity
Plus-size American model Denise Marie Bidot chose to pose unretouched, proudly displaying her stretch marks—an act that has become a symbol of liberation for many women. Far from the traditional standards that have long excluded so-called “non-standard” bodies, Denise Bidot embraces authentic beauty. On this Sports Illustrated cover, it’s not just her curves that are celebrated, but also her message: that of a real, unfiltered body with nothing to prove.
This isn’t Denise Bidot’s first major breakthrough. For several years, she has been campaigning for broader and more honest representation of bodies in the fashion industry. She was one of the first so-called plus-size models to walk the runway for mainstream brands, to appear in international campaigns, and, most importantly, to refuse to have her photos retouched.
Her message is clear: stretch marks, bulges, and cellulite are not flaws to be hidden, but signs of life, growth, and strength. In a sector that often glorifies thinness, her approach is a manifesto.
Stretch marks as a political demand
“Lane Bryant wasn’t trying to make a statement by leaving my stretch marks visible. They just thought, ‘Why retouch them? Stretch marks are beautiful too,'”
she said
. By posing in a bikini without covering up her stretch marks, Denise Bidot is creating a space of recognition for millions of women.
These streaks, long demonized in the media, have become a symbol of pride, a reminder that every body has its own stories. And above all, that no woman should feel unworthy of wearing a swimsuit because of marks on her skin.
A viral image, a real impact
The reactions were swift. On social media, photos of Denise Bidot on the cover of Sports Illustrated were widely shared, accompanied by messages of admiration and gratitude. Hundreds of Internet users recounted going to the beach for the first time without covering their stretch marks.
The impact of this image extends far beyond the editorial framework of a magazine: it redefines what we consider beautiful and powerful. It also paves the way for a more inclusive industry, where every body would finally have the right to exist without being corrected, concealed, or judged.
Despite advances, plus-size models remain underrepresented and the exception in fashion shows, advertising campaigns, and magazine pages. So when Denise Bidot, a size 16 model, proudly displays her stretch marks on the cover of Sports Illustrated, it’s truly symbolic!