Born in Kentucky with a passion for politics, Sims went to Vanderbilt University intending to become a lawyer.
There, at the suggestion of her roommate, she snapped a few pictures.
The future model signed with Next Management after her first meeting.
Suddenly, she was on a wild ride: Runways and photoshoots brought her all over the world.
She began to pursue big-screen acting dreams in Hollywood while maintaining real-life friendships in NYC.
I took 77 red-eye flights between New York and L.A. during that time, Sims says.
It was the best feeling for a girl like me.
The model was featured inSIanother four times.
Ive lived nine lives, Sims reflects.
Take me back to the early aughts when you were 28.
What were you doing?
Where were you living?
Twenty-eight was a big year for me.
I went from living in Paris and New York to L.A. more full time.
The transition from modeling, to hosting, to acting was a major shift in my life.
What was your skin care routine at 28 compared to now?
I have always used micellar water, especially to take off my makeup after working all day.
I also started to develop cystic acne at that time, so skin care was really important to me.
What was it like being on the cover ofSports Illustrated?
That moment was life-changing for me, because it put a name with the face.
What is a beauty product you used at 28 that is still in your makeup bag now?
I have used Vaseline on my eyelids forever for a dewy look.
That and a white eyeliner on the waterline I likeBenefit Cosmetics andClinique waterproof mascaraon your bottom lashes to finish.
It will not budge.
What are your favorite products today?
I am obsessed with our newhydrating lip maskfrom Yse Beauty right now.
What was dating like at 28?
I was always in a monogamous relationship of sorts, a bit codependent too.
What dating advice would you give to yourself then?
If you end up in therapy and youre not married yet, its probably not going to work.
If you were to give one piece of advice to your 28-year-old self, what would it be?
As hard as it is to change, do it.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
This article was originally published onOct.
