Martha Stewart: The 81-Year-Old Icon Making Waves On The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

Homemaking and culinary icon Martha Stewart has appeared on countless magazine covers, but none quite like this: The 81-year-old is the newest headliner for the famous Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. This groundbreaking moment not only highlights her enduring presence in popular culture but also challenges the traditional norms of beauty and age that have long been prevalent in the modeling industry.

On Monday, Sports Illustrated announced that Stewart is now the oldest woman to grace the cover of its annual publication, which has been a platform for showcasing models and celebrities alike. Alongside Stewart on this year's issue are notable figures such as actor Megan Fox, musician Kim Petras, and SI Swimsuit regular Brooks Nader. This lineup reflects a significant shift in the perception of beauty, emphasizing that age should not determine one's desirability.

Martha Stewart: A Journey Through Modeling

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has played a pivotal role in the careers of many models, including Christie Brinkley and Tyra Banks. However, what many may not realize is that Martha Stewart began modeling long before these iconic figures made their mark. In fact, she started her modeling career at the young age of 13 in New York City, a journey that would eventually pave the way for her future success.

Stewart, born Martha Kostyra, was encouraged to pursue modeling by her neighbors, who often praised her beauty. This support helped her gain confidence and led her to work as an in-store model for Bonwit Teller department store, along with landing television commercials for brands like Clairol and Lifebuoy soap. Through these early experiences, she not only earned money but also funded her education at Barnard College, where she studied architectural history.

Building a Career While Balancing Education

During her time at Barnard College, Stewart worked tirelessly to balance her studies with her modeling gigs. She attended college on a partial scholarship and worked full-time as a maid and cook for two widowed sisters in a luxurious 12-room apartment. Despite the challenges, Stewart managed to excel academically and graduated in 1963.

Her modeling experience taught her valuable lessons about discipline, hard work, and professionalism. Stewart recalled earning up to $50 an hour during her modeling days, a significant amount for the time. This financial independence allowed her to focus on her education while still pursuing her dreams in the fashion industry.

Defying Age Norms in the Modeling Industry

Stewart's recent shoot for Sports Illustrated took place in the Dominican Republic in January 2023, where she showcased her radiant figure in a white swimsuit and vibrant orange coverup. Upon seeing the cover photo for the first time, she expressed her delight, saying, “I like that picture.” This reflects her confidence and comfortability in her own skin, emphasizing that beauty knows no age.

In preparation for the shoot, Stewart adopted a rigorous fitness routine, attending Pilates classes every other day and modifying her diet to exclude pasta and bread. She noted that while she is typically motivated by financial gain, her participation in the Swimsuit Issue was driven by a desire to inspire women of all ages to embrace their beauty. “I better look really good!” she thought, understanding the significance of being featured on the cover at her age.

Shifting Perspectives on Aging

Throughout her career, Stewart has faced scrutiny, especially following her conviction related to insider trading, which led to a five-month prison sentence. However, she has continually emerged as a resilient figure, embracing opportunities to share her beauty and lifestyle tips with her audience. Her social media presence, which includes candid selfies and beauty advice, reinforces her commitment to celebrating life, regardless of age.

Stewart's statement, “I think that all of us should think about good living, successful living, and not about aging. The whole aging thing is so boring,” encapsulates her philosophy. She encourages everyone to focus on living well and enjoying life, rather than being weighed down by societal expectations about aging.

A Lasting Legacy

Martha Stewart's journey from a young model to a media mogul is a testament to her tenacity and ability to adapt. Her recent feature in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue not only highlights her timeless beauty but also serves as an inspiration for women everywhere. As she continues to break barriers and redefine beauty standards, Stewart proves that age is just a number, and one can always pursue their passions.

Her story invites readers to reflect on their own perceptions of aging and to embrace their unique beauty, regardless of societal norms. By showcasing her journey, Stewart encourages others to pursue their dreams fearlessly and to cherish every moment of life.