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Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Lauren Chan Marries Hayley Kosan in Joyful, Affirming Ceremony
READ TIME: 9 MIN.
Lauren Chan, known for her groundbreaking presence as a plus-size model and her recent Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover, has married Hayley Kosan, a distinguished filmmaker and creative director, in a ceremony that has captured the attention of both the fashion world and Queer communities. Their story is not just a testament to personal happiness but also a powerful narrative of visibility and affirmation for queer couples navigating public and professional spaces .
Chan and Kosan’s relationship began with a serendipitous meeting during a commercial casting years ago. Chan, arriving at the casting as a model, was immediately drawn to Kosan, who was then directing for the brand. Their first encounter, documented in behind-the-scenes footage, revealed an early connection visible even in their body language and interaction. Chan later recalled searching LinkedIn for Kosan’s name variants, determined to reconnect after feeling an undeniable spark .
Kosan, celebrated for her emotionally intelligent storytelling and poetic visuals in commercial production, was initially focused on the work at hand. Yet, the subtle signs of a deepening bond were present from the outset. Years of collaboration and friendship evolved into romance, culminating in a loving, affirming partnership.
The couple’s decision to share their relationship publicly was made with intention and care. For Chan, with over 100,000 followers on Instagram and a career defined by breaking barriers, visibility was both personal and political. Kosan’s creative work, often infused with themes of identity and belonging, made their announcement particularly resonant for fans and followers, especially those within the Queer community.
Their first public post came at the end of 2023: a quiet, joyful video montage that stitched together moments from a year of love and transformation. Kosan described the act of going public as a moment of “aligned visibility,” expressing excitement for what their union represented not just for themselves but for others watching their journey .
Chan faced online negativity with grace and resolve. After a critical comment appeared under her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit photo questioning the purpose of such representation, she responded with a full-throated defense of agency and the female gaze, declaring: “SI 2025 is for the girls!” This response underscored her commitment to fighting for inclusive representation and standing firm in her identity .
In March 2025, Chan and Kosan announced their engagement through a series of black-and-white photo booth snapshots, radiating intimacy and joy. The images reflected a relationship built on mutual admiration and understanding, with both partners embracing the public’s celebration of their union .
Their wedding, held in a beachside setting during Miami Swim Week, was a blend of professional celebration and personal milestone. Chan’s role at the inaugural Swimwear Icons Hall of Fame Honors Night, where she presented an award to SI Swimsuit editor-in-chief MJ Day, coincided with the couple’s celebration, adding a layer of industry recognition to their personal joy.
Kosan’s bio—“Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Husband of 2025”—reflected humor and pride in their partnership, further amplifying the event’s significance among fans and peers.
Lauren Chan and Hayley Kosan’s marriage holds particular relevance for Queer representation in media and fashion. As public figures, their openness about their relationship provides affirmation for queer women and gender-diverse individuals navigating industries historically resistant to inclusion. Chan’s reflection on her experience—“Being in love with Hayley makes everything make sense. She is the salve that soothed everything challenging about coming out and starting over”—speaks to the transformative power of queer love and the importance of supportive partnerships .
Their story challenges persistent stereotypes and expands the visibility of Queer joy in mainstream spaces. The response from fans—both within and outside Queer communities—has been overwhelmingly positive, with many citing their union as a beacon of possibility and hope.
The fashion and entertainment industries have responded with enthusiasm to Chan and Kosan’s marriage. Chan’s trailblazing work as a plus-size model and entrepreneur has paved the way for greater inclusion, while Kosan’s directorial accomplishments further highlight the creative contributions of Queer professionals .
Their union is especially meaningful in the context of ongoing efforts to make media and fashion more inclusive. By celebrating their love publicly, the couple not only affirms their own identities but also creates space for marginalized voices to be heard and valued.
Lauren Chan and Hayley Kosan’s marriage is more than a personal milestone—it is a public affirmation of queer love, resilience, and joy. Their journey from a chance professional encounter to a celebrated union exemplifies the possibilities that arise when Queer individuals are empowered to live authentically and visibly. For fans, colleagues, and communities alike, their story serves as both inspiration and a call to continue advocating for inclusion and equality in all spheres of life .
