Lauren Chan Make History as First Out Lesbian on SI Swimsuit Cover

(New York, NY) — Model and entrepreneur Lauren Chan made history as the first out lesbian to grace a solo cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, which hit newsstands on May 13. Chan, 34, noted the significance of the moment, saying, “I’m the first out lesbian on the cover — with her own cover — and how much that means to me makes that surprise feel so overwhelming.”

Chan shot the images for the Swimsuit edition in Bermuda in March, unaware at the time that she would be featured prominently. The magazine surprised her by placing her among four models with their own covers for the 2025 issue, along with actor Salma Hayek Pinault, gymnast Olivia Dunne, and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles.

“Lauren Chan is rewriting fashion’s narrative,” said MJ Day, editor in chief of SI Swimsuit, in a social media post. “Her why is about making people think of beauty in a way that’s inclusive, genuine and empowering.”

In a recent interview with People magazine, Chan spoke candidly about her journey of self-discovery, revealing that she came out as queer during the pandemic. “I was shocked that I—a 30-something, married to a man—am coming out late,” she said in a personal essay for Sports Illustrated.

As the founder of the plus-size clothing brand Henning, Chan has dedicated her career to promoting representation and inclusion in fashion. “My whole career has been based on representation,” she said. “I’m also the first Chinese person on the cover of Swimsuit.”

Chan’s engagement to filmmaker Hayley Kosan adds personal significance to her groundbreaking achievement. “When I was growing up, I didn’t know I was queer because there was next to no representation,” she reflected. “Claiming this moment with pride means everything.”

Looking forward, Chan hopes her visibility will offer support to marginalized communities, fostering a sense of belonging and celebration within the fashion industry.