Bethenny Frankel, known for her time on The Real Housewives of New York City, recently made waves at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s Swim Week 2025 runway show in Miami. The 54-year-old reality star-turned-entrepreneur flaunted a range of bold swimwear, including cheeky bikinis and a leopard-print one-piece, drawing widespread attention not just for her modeling but for her appearance. Following the buzz, Frankel took to Instagram to respond directly to the online chatter, which focused heavily on her age, physique, and overall look.
Revealing Runway Truths As Frankel Debunks Glamour Myths And Embraces Authentic Living
In a candid Instagram video posted on June 2, Frankel addressed the hype by pulling back the curtain on the realities of runway glam. Wearing a cut-out black one-piece, she explained that the transformation seen on the catwalk is the result of “a lot of glam, a lot of contouring and a lot of lighting.”
She emphasized that none of the women, including herself, looked like that just hours before stepping on stage. This transparency aimed to debunk the illusion of effortless perfection often projected in high-fashion events.
Frankel stressed that she is not someone who thrives on vanity, noting that she typically goes makeup-free and prefers staying in. “I look like a train wreck most of the time,” she admitted, reinforcing her message of authenticity.
She also shared details about her approach to health and fitness, stating that she doesn’t follow crash diets or strict workout regimens. Instead, she credits her figure to a balanced relationship with food and sporadic exercise — something she’s developed over time after overcoming past struggles with body image and disordered eating.
Promoting Balance: Bethenny Frankel Advocates Self-Compassion Over Perfection in Wellness Journey
Ending her video on a motivational note, Frankel encouraged her followers to embrace indulgence without guilt and to foster a healthier relationship with food and exercise. She advised against harsh fitness routines and restrictive diets, promoting instead a more sustainable and forgiving approach to wellness. “You don’t have to kill yourself,” she said, advocating for self-compassion and balance as the true markers of a healthy lifestyle.
Frankel’s runway moment coincides with her recent move to Florida and a reflective phase in her life. Since gaining fame as a personal chef and reality star, she has built a successful brand empire, notably selling her Skinnygirl liquor line in 2011. Alongside her business ventures, she’s authored several books on wellness and healthy living. Her most recent public appearances, including modeling at Swim Week, signal not only a new chapter geographically but a continued evolution of her personal and professional identity.
