Lauren Chan is making waves in more ways than one in the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She's an entrepreneur as well as a model and former college basketball player and she revealed her bold new photo shoot taken in Bermuda and also her own powerful story of self acceptance.
Chan played basketball at the University of Western Ontario and once dreamed of joining the WNBA, but these days brings a competitive spirit and strong sense of identity to a successful career in fashion. She launched a plus-size suiting brand called Henning and has also become a passionate voice for exclusivity in her industry. Chan came out publicly as a lesbian in 2023 and she credits fashion and therapy for helping her get more connected to her true self.
Chan showcases her journey - and her confidence - in a string bikini as part of SI Swimsuit’s latest edition. “FOR THE GIRLS!!!!” she wrote on Instagram, sharing a standout shot by photographer Ben Watts.
“Alongside my cover @mj_day asked me to write an essay for the issue,” she said. “It’s a continuation of the moment when my 2025 images were revealed on social and the chauvinist trolls asked me, “Who are they even doing this for anymore?? Women??” I am so proud to report in print that the answer is, in fact, women. And what a way to celebrate that welcome change to the institution! Please pick up an issue when they hit stands and read it—the message of this piece is THE reason I am so proud to be on the cover.”
For Lauren Chan, confidence starts with compassion. When discussing body image on the #SISwim25 set, the model offers this reminder: “Think of it this way—would you say that to your younger self? If not, then why on earth would you say it to yourself?”
— Sports Illustrated Swimsuit (@SI_Swimsuit) March 18, 2025
Photographer: Ben Watts… pic.twitter.com/BRZTGGHnFH
SI Swimsuit shared an official post that praised Chan for “breaking molds, setting standards—on her own terms,” and for challenging traditional definitions of beauty. She joins a diverse lineup of women featured in the 2025 edition, including many who keep pushing boundaries in both culture and fashion.
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