SI Swimsuit Style Diaries: Molly Sims Brings Signature Chic Style to Launch Week Celebration

The prolific model joined the magazine in New York City for an unforgettable weekend.

Molly Sims | Dimitrios Kambouris & Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Tuesday, May 12, marked the official release of SI Swimsuit’s annual issue! The magazine rang in the feat in style, inviting the 34 models featured on its glossy pages to New York City for an all-out launch celebration weekend. The dynamic group of women who joined us in the Big Apple included both rookies and legends, with everyone coming together to applaud their incredible work.

And when the word “legend” comes up in an SI Swimsuit-related conversation, it’s impossible not to think of Molly Sims. A prolific model and longtime member of the SI Swimsuit family, she returned to the magazine’s pages this year with her eighth shoot.

Sims originally kicked off her run in SI Swimsuit in Maui, Hawaii, back in 2000, returning for dual features in 2001, as well as shoots in 2002, 2004 and 2006. After a hiatus, she reunited with the magazine in 2024, when she was inducted into the SI Swimsuit “legends” class for the 60th Anniversary issue. And in 2026, she took to the sun-drenched beaches of luxurious Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico, for her most recent feature photographed by James Macari.

Molly Sims was photographed by James Macari in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Swimsuit by ZHILYOVA. | James Macari/Sports Illustrated

The celebration for SI Swimsuit 2026 began with a bang when Sims and more members of this year’s roster arrived in the city for a stylish red carpet and VIP Launch Party at the Hard Rock Hotel New York. From there, the models were invited to join the brand for SI Swimsuit’s Social Club: a two-day extravaganza filled with fashion, fun and unforgettable fan experiences.

As always, Sims’s sleek and chic signature style was on display at all the events she attended, making her a standout star on the red carpet and beyond. So, without further ado, we invite you to take a closer look at her wonderful wardrobe from SI Swimsuit’s 2026 launch week below, including a sneak peek behind the scenes courtesy of the model and her team!

Thursday, May 14:  Red carpet and VIP Launch Party at the Hard Rock Hotel New York

Molly Sims | Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit

On Thursday, May 14, SI Swimsuit rolled out the red—or should we say, black—carpet for the models featured in the 2026 issue at the Hard Rock Hotel New York for a party-filled evening. Beginning with a luxe rooftop cocktail hour followed by a live-streamed red carpet, those in attendance were certainly in a New York state of mind. Guests were then invited inside the magazine’s VIP Launch Party, where the models danced the night away to the sounds of Mr. “Hey, what’s up, hello” himself, Fetty Wap, who performed his greatest hits live.

Sims styled an all-black look for the evening, embracing one of this year’s top trends in the process: sultry, semi-sheer fabrics. Her Sehnsucht Atelier gown was the definition of “city girl chic,” with the high neckline and long sleeves a welcome switch-up from the typical late spring fare. Sims left her long blonde tresses down for the night-out look, with her soft curls and dewy glam feeling effortlessly elegant.

Dress: Sehnsucht Atelier
Shoes: Charles & Keith
Bag: Tyler Ellis
Earrings: Simone Jewels
Bracelets: FOPE

Molly Sims | Courtesy of Molly Sims

Friday, May 15: SI Swimsuit Social Club, Day 1 (Day Look)

Molly Sims | Courtesy of Molly Sims

The following afternoon, Sims returned for Day 1 of SI Swimsuit’s Social Club. Taking place at Spring Studio on Friday, May 15, the models enjoyed a beautiful brunch complete with a live DJ, who added to the midday party atmosphere. There, models enjoyed tasty nibbles and ice-cold drinks with their peers, mixing and mingling to their heart’s content while posing for photos and enjoying stunning views from the prime New York City location.

For her brunch-ready look, Sims brought sparkle to the cityscape in a timeless, neutral-toned outfit. Comprising a classic button-up top with a relaxed collar, a waist-cinching cocoa-colored belt and a shimmering golden skirt, the entire ensemble was (fittingly) by NYC-based designer brand TWP. With this look, the YSE Beauty founder quickly proved that daywear should be anything but boring!

Top, belt and skirt: TWP
Earrings: Astrid & Agnes
Rings: Shy Creations and Le Vian

Molly Sims | Courtesy of Molly Sims

Friday, May 15: SI Swimsuit Social Club, Day 1 (Evening Look)

Molly Sims | Courtesy of Molly Sims

Finally, Sims reunited with SI Swimsuit that same evening, where she and her fellow models enjoyed a luxe cocktail hour and private comedy set. Once again taking over Spring Studio, the brunch space was transformed into a gorgeous lounge, with bartenders on hand to mix the delicious drinks and bite-sized appetizers galore.

If one were to look up inspiration for the ideal “Girls’ Night Out” look, Sims’s evening outfit would certainly be a top hit. For her final ensemble of launch weekend, Sims once again embraced a marvelously monochromatic style. Her semi-sheer top mimicked the aesthetic of her VIP Launch Party gown from the night prior in its fabric and cut, but the model switched the vibes up by pairing the piece with figure-hugging leather pants for added edge. Her glossy slingback heels and alligator-skin handbag made for perfect finishing touches.

Full look: Khaite

Molly Sims | Courtesy of Molly Sims

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