When I think of women's empowerment, plenty of women come to mind — but one who truly embodies it is Ashley Graham [1]. She's built a career that's not only wildly successful, but genuinely trailblazing, breaking barriers as one of the first plus-size models to work with iconic brands across the globe and helping to reshape the fashion industry along the way. Now, as a new mom, she's learning how to multitask with her career, family life, and more. "Having three kids in two years challenged me and taught me that I can be fully present in every area of my life by embracing each moment as it comes," Graham says. "It's about feeling good in my skin, embracing the changes, and knowing I'm enough — whether I'm in a boardroom, on Broadway, on set for a photo shoot, or in my kitchen making breakfast with the little ones."
Graham's latest endeavor? Starring as the face of Victoria's Secret [2]'s latest Mother's Day campaign [3], which centers on comfort. "I curated this edit from one mom to another," says Graham. "I wanted every piece to feel cozy, soft, and chic — which is what I look for when getting dressed: comfort, versatility, and style." The collection is full of essentials that don't sacrifice fashion for function. "It's everything when outfit changes aren't on the schedule."
Ahead of Mother's Day [4], we asked Graham to share her top gift picks — both the items she loves to give and those she's thrilled to receive. From tried-and-true favorites like the VSX Max Incredible Sports Bra [5] to the face mist she used at the Met Gala (and still swears by for a quick post-work refresh), Graham shared plenty of product recommendations any mom would love. Keep reading to shop the model's full Mother's Day [6] gift guide.
A Mother’s Day Gift She'd Love to Receive
VSX Incredible Max Sports Bra [7] ($60)
For a gift that blends comfort and versatility, this VSX sports bra is a standout. Ashley Graham turns to it for everything from workouts to work dinners, calling it her go-to for feeling "put together" and "comfortable" throughout the day. It's a thoughtful pick for any mom who needs wardrobe staples that work as hard as she does.
A Mother's Day Gift She'd Love to Give
Heyday Gift Card [8] ($75)
Gifting "me time" is something Graham values — and if her facialist [9] or acupuncturist [10] isn't available, we've got the perfect backup: a Heyday gift card, so your mom can treat herself to a facial. Bonus points if you offer to watch the kids so she can actually use it.
An Affordable Mother's Day Gift
Revlon PhotoReady Rose Glow Face Mist [11] ($12, originally $17)
If you're looking for a beauty gift that feels luxurious and practical, this face mist is a favorite of Graham's — and for good reason. She's used it for everything from prepping her skin for the Met Gala to refreshing her look between meetings. It's a versatile staple any mom would appreciate in her routine.
A Splurge Mother's Day Gift
Salomon XT-6 Rubber-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers [12] ($190)
A great gift for the mom who's always on the move: Salomon sneakers. Ashley Graham relies on them during long days on set and in rehearsals, calling them the perfect mix of style and support. Whether she's running errands or chasing after little ones, these are built to keep up.
A Unique Mother's Day Gift
26 Charms Custom Bag Charm [13] ($18)
For a fun, personalized gift, consider bag charms — one of Graham's favorite accessories for adding personality to any look. She loves pieces from 26 Charms [14] and Maison de Sabre [15] for their playful designs and customizable options, making them an extra thoughtful way to show you care.
Haley Lyndes [16] is a shopping writer and editor with more than seven years of experience in the publishing space. Specializing in home and lifestyle, she covers everything from furniture and mattresses to beauty products and fitness gear. Previously, she was an SEO commerce writer for Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn. Her writing has appeared in Buzzfeed, Travel & Leisure, and Real Simple. When she's not reviewing her latest home finds or interviewing celebrities, you'll likely find her out for a run — she's also a marathoner.