Alix Earle is officially a cover star for the 2026 edition of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, and the internet has plenty to say about it.
The influencer unveiled the major career milestone with a jaw-dropping cover photo featuring her in a barely-there gold bikini, instantly sparking a frenzy across social media.
For the jaw-dropping cover shot, Earle wore a shimmering gold bikini crafted from velvet-like fabric that amplified the glamorous beach aesthetic.
The triangle-style bikini top featured ultra-small cups and thin straps that highlighted the daring nature of the look. Matching string bikini bottoms completed the ensemble with a slim front panel and delicate tie sides that emphasized the barely-there silhouette.
Posing confidently with one hand resting on her thigh and her hips slightly cocked, Earle delivered a sultry expression that instantly captured attention online.
Fans React To The Viral Cover
The official announcement post on Instagram quickly exploded, collecting more than 423,000 likes and nearly 2,000 comments from fans and critics alike.
“Sensational. Blown away by this cover… congratulations,” one fan commented.
“Stunning, amazing, iconic,” another admirer added.
Not everyone was impressed, however. Some critics questioned the revealing nature of the bikini.
“Wear something, please,” one user wrote, while another bluntly commented, “She’s mid.”
Alix Earle Shares Bikini BTS From Botswana
Days after revealing the cover, Earle treated fans to behind-the-scenes moments from her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit shoot in Botswana.
The 20-slide carousel opened with a striking image of Earle posing in a tan lace-up bikini paired with matching boots. The bikini top featured a plunging V-neck design with lace-up detailing along the sides, while the cheeky high-waisted bottoms mirrored the same tied accents for a cohesive finish.
Another standout look from the carousel featured a brown bikini set with subtle smocked detailing that added a flirty edge to the swimwear.
The post also included candid snapshots from the trip, giving fans a closer look at her time in Botswana between shoots.
She Turns Heads At The SI Swimsuit Launch
Earle continued her glamorous streak at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit launch event in a daring gold crochet dress that showcased her figure.
The dramatic outfit featured a high halter neckline and a nearly backless design that was secured with delicate gold straps wrapping around her sides and ribs.
The mini-length dress hugged her hips before ending high on the thighs, putting her toned legs on display. Metallic fringe accents added extra movement and drama to the already eye-catching ensemble.
She completed the look with gold jewelry, coordinating heels, and loose beachy waves.
Her Rain-Drenched Photos Go Viral
Earlier this year, Earle also generated buzz online with a rain-soaked promotional campaign for her skincare line, Reale Actives.
The photos featured her posing under simulated rainfall in a clingy nude-toned gown that molded to her curves. In one striking image, she turned sideways, arched her back, and raised both arms overhead, creating a dramatic editorial-style pose.
The campaign quickly gained traction across social media, collecting thousands of likes and hundreds of comments from excited fans.
