Women at Work: Molly Sims
In the second installment our new series, the spotlight turns to the model-turned-podcaster, producer and beauty founder.
Fashion loves a second act. In Molly Sims’ case, it’s multiple acts, each one successfully building on the prior. Starting as a top model in the late ’90s for brands like Givenchy and Ann Demeulemeester, and an actress in mid-aughts, she has parlayed decades of industry experience into building her own respected multimedia beauty brand.
Using her eponymous blog as a starting point, Molly launched one of the most popular beauty podcasts, Lipstick on the Rim, where she invites experts to riff on anything from cooking with kale and home decor to debunking risky health and beauty trends. (Stay tuned for Tory’s guest spot later this fall.) She’s also a fellow Substacker and runs her own production company, called Something Happy.
Most recently Molly founded YSE Beauty. Pronounced ‘wise,’ YSE launched with a focused curation of skincare products like the cleverly named Your Favorite Ex exfoliating pads. Coming October 1 is Like a Gloss, a hydrating lip mask and one of Molly’s all-time essentials.
Above, Molly wears our double-faced Wool Coat and Chanel flats in New York City.
My daily work uniform… is usually a great pair of trousers or chic midi skirt, and a chunky cashmere sweater – my office is always freezing. I also love a silk slip dress for the office. It’s easy to throw on and layer over. And I’m all about a flat, no matter the season.
My work bag… I’m a proponent of the two bag method. I carry a small crossbody to hold my essentials like my phone, wallet, keys and lip gloss, and another large leather tote for my computer and work essentials.
My go-to look for an important meeting… If I’m headed into a business meeting for YSE Beauty, I’ll pull out a pantsuit or trousers, plain tee, oversized blazer and a comfy heel. I love a suit because you instantly look put-together without a lot of thought.
The one fashion item that makes me feel most powerful… probably my Adina Reyter necklace that I’ve decked out with charms. I have an M, each of my kids’ initials, hearts, an evil eye to ward off negative energy and others that I swap in and out.
My best fashion advice for new graduates… you don’t have to buy new clothes or wear expensive pieces, but it’s important to put in the effort. Dress the part, and make sure you feel confident and comfortable in whatever you’re wearing. That last thing you want to be doing is adjusting or fidgeting with your clothes.
The most rewarding thing about being an entrepreneur… is connecting with others from different walks of life. Each person I encounter has their own perspective and ideas which fuels my own creativity and drives me to think outside the box.
The best career advice I’ve ever received… is from my sweet big momma — “All the worrying in the world won’t change it, so don’t worry about things that [might] never happen.” As a mother of three and a wife, I have become a chronic over-thinker and worrier. Whenever I’m at max capacity and spiraling, I try to remember that advice. It’s easier said than done, but so important to remember.
Wool Coat "The perfect lightweight layer to throw on for those transitional fall days."
Les Beige Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream “My Holy Grail bronzer. It gives you the perfect glow-y look.”
Colorblock Sweater “When I saw this, I needed it. A simple, elevated basic I will continually reach for.”
Studded Ballet Flats “The perfect shoe to throw on to spice up a seemingly simple look.”
Like A Gloss Hydrating Lip Mask (coming soon) “Part balm, part mask, but also gorgeous on the lips. I even wear it over lipstick.”
Augusta Tote “It has such a unique silhouette while still being practical.”
Our Women at Work issue builds on a longtime brand franchise that now lives on via Substack. Every September and March, we’ll focus on a new industry. The third fashion entrepreneur story runs next weekend. In the meantime, let us know if you have suggestions for inspiring and entrepreneurial women to consider.