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Gabriella Halikas Rocks Colorful Swimsuit on Miami Swim Week Runway, Gets Candid About Size Inclusivity in the Industry

The 2021 Swim Search finalist calls herself the “CEO of confidence.”

Ananya Panchal

Gabriella Halikas.

Gabriella Halikas.

Self-proclaimed “CEO of confidence” Gabriella Halikas isn’t shy about speaking her mind, but she’s also extremely appreciative for all the opportunities she has earned.

The 2021 Swim Search finalist walked in her third Miami Swim Week this year and totally nailed each runway. She wrapped up the event with a candid post on Instagram, thanking swimwear brand OneOne Swimwear and sharing a thoughtful message about size inclusivity in the industry.

“they don’t call me the CEO of Confidence for nothing👏🏼🔥🔥this entire week was a dream come true,” the 26-year-old wrote. “i can’t even put it into words how much this swim week meant to me, and how grateful i am. i got the opportunity to walk in 4 shows, and did my best to light up the runway with the best energy and confidence❤️‍🔥🙏🏼 thank you @oneoneswim for having me & putting me in 4 bomb looks!!! 🫶🏻.”

“aside from my positive experience, i couldn’t help but notice how little size inclusivity there was this year.😢 from the castings, to backstage, and the runway— there was only just a few curve/plus size models there with me,” the body positive influencer, who is represented by Ford Models, continued. “this made me sad for the industry, to see such a lack of representation. although i’m honored to be able to represent the brands i did, i wish i had seen more girls that looked like me.”

Halikas added that a woman of her size should not be the curviest model on the runway, and as someone who has a platform, she felt the need to speak up. She hopes to continue the conversation and “push” the industry forward instead of backward.

“Ella, we are beyond thrilled that you were a part of our show. Your confidence, energy, and positivity truly lit up the runway,” the swimsuit brand chimed in the comments. “We hear you, and stand with you on the importance of inclusivity and representation. Thank you for using your voice to make a difference. You are beautiful and more than deserving. Here’s to a more inclusive future in fashion. 💕.”

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Ananya Panchal

ANANYA PANCHAL

Ananya Panchal is a NYC-based Lifestyle & Trending News writer at SI Swimsuit. Before joining the Swim team, the Boston University Alum worked for culture & entertainment beats at Bustle, The San Francisco Chronicle and the TODAY Show. When Ananya is not writing or doom-scrolling on social media, she can be found playing sudoku, rewatching One Tree Hill or trying new restaurants. She's also a coffee and chocolate (separately) enthusiast.