NEW YORK (AP) — The upcoming Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue is moving its publication date, pushing it from the chill of February to warmer May, closer to bikini-weather.
MJ Day, editor of the issue, told The Associated Press the shift makes more sense for greater impact. She said, “It’s always hard to think about buying a swimsuit when it’s 18 degrees out.”
Day said May is the time when many readers start to think about beaches and pools. The switch also unlocks other warmer locations in the world for the models and photographers.
There was no special reason the month of February was initially chosen 55 years ago for the swimsuit edition. Back then, it was picked to liven up a slow sports winter month.