The 2021 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue marked a significant shift in the publication’s history, featuring a trio of barrier-breaking cover stars: Megan Thee Stallion, Naomi Osaka, and Leyna Bloom.
This 58th installment saw Bloom become the first transgender woman on the cover, while Megan Thee Stallion and Naomi Osaka became the first rapper and Black female athlete, respectively, to front the magazine.
To commemorate the release, the publication hosted its annual launch celebration at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, in July 2021. Among the attendees was former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo, who showcased two distinct white-on-white ensembles that emphasized structural cutouts and striking footwear.

Olivia Culpo Stuns in a Cutout LaQuan Smith Gown at the SI Swimsuit Launch Party
For the opening night of the launch events, Culpo chose a floor-length white gown by LaQuan Smith.
The $1,300 design features a high neckline and long sleeves, contrasted with geometric cutouts across the bodice and thigh, highlighting the model’s athletic frame.

The styling remained minimalist, with her hair secured in a sleek, center-parted low bun. Her makeup featured a classic winged eyeliner paired with soft peach tones.

To complement the dress’s cool white, she accessorized with long drop earrings by Ilene Joy and silver open-toe sandals.

Olivia Culpo Turns Up the Glam in David Koma and Crystal Giuseppe Zanotti Heels
The following day, Culpo transitioned to a more architectural silhouette in a white mini dress by David Koma. The long-sleeved garment is defined by a singular, crystal-embellished circular cutout at the chest, a signature of Koma’s modern aesthetic.

The highlight of the look was the footwear—a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti embellished ankle sandals.

These “Kassie” sandals, which Ashanti has also been seen wearing in candy pink, feature Art Deco-inspired crystal straps that mirrored the circular motif of her dress.
The sandals are finished with a 105mm (approx. 4-inch) stiletto heel and a slim toe strap, balancing the weight of the crystal hardware.

Step Inside Olivia Culpo’s Designer Shoe Closet
From sculptural red-carpet heels to off-duty street style staples, Olivia Culpo consistently leans on statement footwear to define her look. Explore more of her standout shoe moments, from sky-high sandals to fashion-forward boots, below.
👠 Explore Olivia Culpo’s Best Shoe & Style Moments:
- 📏 Olivia Culpo’s height (5’5″ / 165 cm) and US shoe size 8 profile — plus how she uses designer heels like Stuart Weitzman and Giuseppe Zanotti to elongate her frame.
- ✨ Her metallic Redemption gown and Gianvito Rossi “Portofino” sandals at the amfAR Gala — a classic red-carpet pairing that highlights her love of minimalist ankle-strap heels.
- 👗 Olivia Culpo’s chic NYC street style in a beige leather mini dress paired with Gia Couture x Rosie Huntington-Whiteley toe-ring sandals.
- 👢 Her off-duty look in Saint Laurent “Niki” over-the-knee boots styled with Gucci and GRLFRND denim in Los Angeles.
- 🏈 Olivia Culpo’s Super Bowl style featuring Alaïa mesh “La Cage” boots — a bold, fashion-forward take on game-day dressing.
- 🌴 Her Cannes amfAR Gala moment in Stuart Weitzman sandals styled with a sparkling Ermanno Scervino dress.