Bethenny Frankel turned heads on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway in Miami with a bold Baywatch-inspired red swimsuit look, later revealing that her standout bronzed tan was the result of teamwork. The former “Real Housewives of New York City” star said two women from Golden Girls NY helped create the glowing look using professional Loving Tan products, including the brand’s 10 Min Express Self-Tanning Smoothing Body Mask. Frankel’s runway style was completed with a light blonde wig, while she also wore a black two-piece with fingerless gloves and a yellow-and-blue crochet bikini that highlighted her figure.
In a video shared with fans on Instagram, Frankel reflected on the experience and said the show stood out because of the women involved. She praised the diversity of the models, noting that the runway featured women of different body types, ages, heights, and backgrounds. Frankel said the atmosphere was empowering and emphasized that the participants were confident and comfortable in their own skin. She also credited Sports Illustrated for selecting a broad group of women who brought different perspectives and personalities to the event.
Frankel admitted that she felt nervous walking the runway, but said she chose to show up as herself rather than trying to act like a professional model. She said her goal was simply to have fun and be authentic. The reality star also addressed comments about her age and body, making it clear that she was not interested in fitting other people’s expectations. She said she was going to do what she wanted and would not change herself to satisfy critics. Frankel also noted that she does not work out regularly and was not trying to transform her body for outside approval.
The TV personality said the night was made even more meaningful by the support of her inner circle. Her best friends attended the event and encouraged her throughout the show, while her boyfriend, Shane L. Campbell, was reportedly proud of her and cheered her on from the front row. Frankel also said her daughter, Bryn, liked the black two-piece best. Fans responded positively to the runway appearance, praising her confidence and saying she looked fantastic.
Beyond the fashion moment, Frankel recently shared thoughts on dating and relationships, advising women to look beyond physical attraction and focus on compatibility, shared lifestyles, and long-term alignment. She encouraged people not to hold on to relationships that are not working and to move on when a future does not seem possible. Frankel’s renewed romance with Campbell became public after she posted a kissing photo of the two together, confirming she was no longer single.
