This Sports Illustrated Swim Model and Mom of 2 Didn't Stress About the So-Called Baby Weight

The 2019 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue is out now, and it features what may be the most diverse group of models in the magazine's history, including the first Polynesian model, Victoria Pome'e, and Halima Aden, who's the first to appear in a hijab and burkini. Among the diverse models being highlighted is Tara Lynn, a deeply fabulous curve model who's making history as the oldest rookie to ever pose for the issue. At age 36, the model and mom is breaking new ground and inspiring us all.

Tara Lynn was photographed only a year after giving birth to her younger son. She told the New York Post that her postbaby workout regimen was less about trying to lose the baby weight and more about getting toned and fit. "I wasn't concerned about getting rid of the baby belly," she said in the interview. "I worked with a trainer to gain muscle. My focus was on fitness."

Although Tara Lynn is a successful model now — her portfolio includes a campaign for H&M, as well as the cover of Elle France — that wasn't the goal at first. She started out studying music theory and voice, hoping to work as a jingle singer in the advertising world. Her first modeling audition was an attempt to build up her ability to handle rejection. She was certain she'd be turned away.

"[I wanted] to do something really scary that I would probably get told no and discover that I could be okay," she told the Post. "I was looking for rejection, so I could pick myself up and keep going toward this other thing I wanted to do."

Even now with so many successes behind her (and ahead of her), Tara Lynn's still trying to do new and interesting things. She turned her SI shoot into an opportunity to give back: a bikini she wears in the issue is designed by her and is part of a new movement for eco-friendly, charitably oriented fashion. For every suit sold, 100 trees will be planted in partnership with Trees for the Future, which works with farmers in sub-Saharan Africa to create sustainable forest gardens.

Tara Lynn's feature in the iconic issue is further proof that there are no limits (time or otherwise) when it comes to achieving your dreams. "So many of us have these grand goals when we are kids, and as time goes on, we seem to think our opportunities are narrowed down. We can get trapped in the idea that the older we get, the more opportunities are behind us," she said.

Pick up the issue on newsstands today, and read through for some of Tara Lynn's stunning Instagram photos.