Padma Lakshmi Posed for Sports Illustrated in a Gold Thong Bikini & We’re Speechless

When we say this might be one of Padma Lakshmi’s most incredible sizzling bikini moments, we’re not lying. 

Sure, Padma has stunned us in the past, but these Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue snapshots of the Bravo’s Top Chef host in a barely-there bikini made up of gold coin-like pieces had our jaws on the floor. The photos show Padma giving a coy smile while posing in the water in the skimpy top ($62) and matching thong bottoms ($62) by Toxic Sadie. Padma rocked her long brunette locks in sultry beach waves for the photo shoot.  

“From the first conversation to the fitting to every interaction I’ve had with [Editor in Chief MJ Day] and everyone, they said this is about you feeling good and your comfort level,” Padma told the outlet about the shoot. “I want everybody to see this pictorial and understand that sometimes a whole new phase that’s even more exciting than anything you’ve ever experienced before can happen well over 40.”

Just a few days before the Sports Illustrated photos dropped, Padma had another stunning fashion moment when she hit the red carpet for the Time 100 Gala. 

For the star-studded April 26 affair, Padma rocked a strapless periwinkle organza ball gown by Marchesa ($5,995), pairing the statement-making style with strappy silver heels by Gianvito Rossi ($950). 

“Honestly? One of the best nights of my life!!” Padma captioned an Instagram post of a slew of photos that showcased the dress, which featured a beautiful cascading textured skirt and floral-detailed sweetheart neckline. “I met so many people I admire and got seated at the most fun table — it was an embarrassment of female riches.” 

The New York mom paired the dazzling style with dreamy, matching periwinkle eye glam and a peachy blush and lip by makeup artist William Scott. She wore her rich brunette locks in effortless loose waves by hairstylist Jeanie Syfu. 

In addition to keeping up with Padma’s incredible styles, we’ve been keeping up with her personal life. 

Around the Top Chef Season 20 premiere on March 9, the cookbook author headed to Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen to dish about her dating life. When host Andy Cohen prompted Padma about her love life, the brunette beauty was happy to share a few details, including how she wasn’t getting, erm, “penetrated” much lately.

“Is that true? Padma, we’ve gotta change that!” Andy said.

In the clip above, Padma opens up about her turn-ons — and turn-offs — during a game of “Pillow Talk.” She confessed that shoulders are the first physical trait she notices on a man she’s attracted to. 

And when it came down to her preferred spooning style, Padma used a metaphor that involved several utensils. “Usually, [I prefer to be] the big spoon, but if I really trust you, then the steak knife,” she said. 

Watch Top Chef on Bravo Thursdays at 9/8c and the next day on Peacock. Catch up on the Bravo app.