Model Lauren Chan has made history by becoming one of the “first out lesbians” featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s annual swimsuit issue.
Chan will be one of four cover stars revealed on May 17, joining actress Salma Hayek, gymnast Jordan Chiles, and influencer Livvy Dunn. Following her debut in 2023, she made headlines as “the first queer plus-size model to appear in magazines.”
In an interview, Chan, who founded the Henning clothing brand, emphasized that “representation and inclusion” guide her career decisions.
“My entire career focuses on representation and inclusion, especially for people like me as a plus-size model, fashion editor, and founder of a plus-size brand,” she explained.
She also mentioned being the first Chinese woman to appear on the cover.
“When I embarked on my journey with a swimsuit, there was a lot of discussion surrounding LGBTQ individuals and the AAPI (Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders) communities. I believe I was one of the first Chinese individuals to grace a swimsuit cover,” she remarked.
From a beauty standards perspective, Chan expressed her unwillingness to conform to “unrealistic beauty standards.”
“I never look at women and think they aren’t attractive just because they don’t fit some ridiculous beauty standards,” she stated. “When I apply that same logic to myself, it feels liberating. I’m thrilled to share that sentiment, no matter how unconventional it may sound.”
“I identified as straight up until recently, which surprised many when I came out. Honestly, it was a surprise to me as well,” she added.
