World’s sexiest ... Kate Upton, winner of PEOPLE's Sexiest Woman, poses in the press room during the PEOPLE Magazine Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel. Picture: Getty Source: AFP

The US swimsuit model, best known for her revealing appearances in Sports Illustrated, was named People Magazine’s Sexiest Woman at an awards ceremony in Los Angeles overnight.

“This is such an honour to me because sexy to me means someone who’s confident and happy,” said Upton, 22, as she accepted the honour, the magazine reports.

J-LO’S SMOKIN’ HOT ‘THREAT’

Presenting the award, Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane praised Upton for her achievements.

“There are a lot of reasons why Kate is sexy. Style, career, achievements, sense of humour, personality — oh and did I mention her … looks?” he said.

World’s sexiest ... Kate Upton poses backstage with the award for sexiest woman at The People Magazine Awards at the Beverly Hilton hotel. Picture: AP Source: AP

Other big winners at the inaugural awards night included Jennifer Aniston, who took home the best actress honour, and Michael Keaton, who was awarded the actor gong.

The star-studded event also included performances from Gwen Stefani, Pharrell Williams, 5 Seconds of Summer and Maroon 5.

Bombshell ... Kate Upton on the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine. Source: Supplied

FULL LIST OF WINNERS:

Movie Performance of the Year — Actor

Michael Keaton

Triple Threat

Jennifer Lopez

Hero of the Year Award

Nora Sandigo

On Screen TV Couple of the Year

Mindy Kaling and Chris Messina

Breakout Star of the Year

Billy Eichner

Style Icon recipient

Gwen Stefani

Movie Performance of the Year — Actress

Jennifer Aniston

PEOPLE’s Sexiest Woman

Kate Upton

Role Model

Kate Hudson

Television Performance of the Year — Actor

Jon Hamm

Next Generation Star

Chloe Grace Moretz

Television Performance of the Year — Actress

Lisa Kudrow

Comedy Star of the Year

Kevin Hart