Livvy Dunne discusses her memorable fashion show moment

Olivia Dunn Shares Her Experience at the Sports Illustrated Runway Show

Olivia Dunn, a former LSU gymnast and social media sensation, recently opened up about her experience at the Sports Illustrated Runway Show in Miami earlier this year.

She graced the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, which marked her debut on the runway. In an interview on the podcast “What’s Your Story? With Stephanie McMahon,” she discussed her journey leading up to the event. Leaving LSU meant she didn’t have to train for the next season, allowing her to participate in the show.

During the May event, Dunn strutted down the runway in a black and white polka dot swimsuit adorned with red bows. When she reached the end, she executed a split, showcasing her gymnastics background.

Reflecting on the experience, Dunn revealed her nerves. “I went to Miami, not really sure of what to expect,” she recounted. “I’ve never walked a runway before—I’ve only practiced in front of my bedroom mirror after watching Victoria’s Secret.” She felt a bit out of her element, especially with just two hours to go before the show.

Before stepping onto the runway, she consulted with friends who encouraged her to go for it. “I was talking to my sister, seeking advice from those I thought would support me,” she said. Ultimately, she decided to take the plunge after speaking with SI Editor MJ Day. “They wanted to see personality and movement,” Dunn noted.

She was among four cover models featured in the edition, alongside notable names like Lauren Chang and Salma Hayek. Since her time at LSU, Dunn has gained a massive following on social media, with over 8 million TikTok followers and an additional 5.4 million on Instagram. Although she led the Tigers to a national championship in 2024, injuries affected her final year in college.