MODEL LAUREN CHAN HAS A MESSAGE FOR THE WORLD: Bring It On!

FASHION'S NEWEST DISRUPTER IS HAVING THE BEST YEAR EVER AND IT'S ONLY JULY

- HEDY PHILLIPS

When Lauren Chan submitted a self-taped audition for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit in 2023, she had just divorced her husband of five years and come out as queer. Her candor about her story helped secure the former fashion editor, originally from Canada, a spot as an SI Swim rookie and kicked off a “new chapter.” Now, two years later, she’s the first out lesbian to land a cover spot for the publication. She’s also walking New York Fashion Week runways for top designers like Christian Siriano, and she and her partner, film director Hayley Kosan, whom she started dating in 2023, are getting married this fall. Through it all Chan, 34, has spoken out with a steadfast message about representation for size inclusivity, the LGBTQ+ community and anyone else who has ever felt marginalized. Here she opens up about dismantling archaic industry ideals, ditching the male gaze and healing herself through her work.

Do you think you would have landed Sports Illustrated Swimsuit before sharing your coming-out journey?

No. I don’t think I had enough access to my own vulnerability and story.

How does living authentically affect how you model?