Though Molly Gordon was born in Los Angeles, she has deep roots in New York. After attending New York University for a short period and later splitting her time between both cities, she’s now starring in Theory’s Spring 2026 campaign as a quintessential NYC girl. Starring alongside Industry star Ken Leung, the Theory looks Gordon models are perfect for schlepping around the city streets: loose fabrics, chic silhouettes, and the perfect black leather jacket.
“New York is so alive,” Gordon said in a statement. “It’s fast-paced, but there’s still room to show up exactly as you are. Theory understands that balance. The clothes feel relaxed and considered at the same time, which makes them feel incredibly natural to wear.”
And the campaign isn’t all she’s busy with these days. The actress, who’s best known for starring in The Bear, Oh, Hi!, and Theater Camp, is hard at work on her new project, Peaked, which she will both direct and star in. Per Deadline, the A24 film will follow two women who peaked in high school (played by Gordon and Sex Education’s Emma Mackey) as they attempt to relive their youth at their 10-year school reunion. The film is set to begin shooting this year.
In an email to ELLE, Gordon discussed the Theory campaign, her ideal director outfit, and the cozy fashion trend she wants to see more of in 2026.
Tell us about your involvement with this Theory campaign. What interested you in collaborating with the brand?
A Theory coat was one of my first big purchases after getting my first job, and though that coat barely fits me anymore, I still wear it. So I was really excited when they reached out, and [excited] about the idea of this campaign being about “effortless” style, because I think at its core, that’s about you being yourself.
What was it like shooting the campaign? Describe the day on set.
The shoot was really lovely! The whole creative team, stylist, crew, getting to work with Blake [Erik] and Katie [Jane Hughes] on hair and makeup, and working with the Posternaks [Zhenya and Tanya Posternak], two female directors, was really meaningful to me. They all made me feel really comfortable.
How would you describe your personal style? Has it evolved in recent years, and what kinds of pieces do you gravitate toward?
I used to wear mostly dresses, ’cause when I was a kid I thought that pants didn’t let me dance around in the way I wanted to. But now I’ve embraced jeans, and I feel like I gravitate towards vintage and classic pieces.
You’re directing and starring in Peaked. What’s your go-to director outfit?
I’m currently in prep on Peaked. My director outfit is unwashed hair, the shirt that’s on my floor, and a great pair of vintage jeans. Shoutout to Aquaphor; it’s fucking cold in New York.
Tell us a bit about Peaked. What’s the origin story behind this project, and what excites you most about the story?
Peaked is a movie I wrote with my best friend Allie Levitan. It’s been a long journey to get here, and I feel incredibly grateful to be creating something funny and heart-forward in this insane time.
What other women directors do you admire most? Have any of them given you advice on your own journey as a director? What did they say?
I most recently watched The Heartbreak Kid (1972) for the first time. I didn’t think I could possibly be more inspired by Elaine May than I already was, but now I am. What an unbelievably brilliant force. The best advice I’ve been given is “embrace confusion.”
Are there any particular films or actors you’re rooting for at this year’s Academy Awards ceremony?
I am rooting for everyone because I think it’s incredible that anything gets made anymore. But I’m especially rooting for One Battle After Another, which has inspired me beyond belief.
What’s your dream Broadway role?
I want to play Fruma-Sarah in Fiddler on the Roof. But no…but maybe? I want to sing and play a crazy person. I also want to do an all-female Into the Woods with me, Rachel [Sennott], Ayo [Edebiri], Mitra [Jouhari], Geraldine [Viswanathan], Ariana Grande, and SZA.
As your star has been on the rise, many of your close friends have been on the rise right alongside you. What has it been like seeing their success—and getting the chance to collaborate with them so often?
Getting to watch my friends succeed has been the most moving and soul-giving part of working in this industry. I just wish I could see them more!
If you had to recommend any one piece from this Theory collection to everyone, which would it be?
I would recommend the Vented Blazer that has easy access to your pockets, because I don’t have a wallet and always stuff shit in my pockets. I really love the thoughtful little details like that in Theory’s clothes.
Vented Blazer in Wool Gabardine | Theory
What’s a fashion trend you hope to see more of in 2026?
Pajamas outside.
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