Being true to yourself
with this month;s cover star September Summers / @septembersummers_
Photographer Joe Mikoli / @jmikoli_designphoto
How does it feel to see yourself featured in this issue, and what does this moment mean to you personally? It feels surreal, like every version of me who fought for herself finally arrived at the same finish line. It’s not just a feature, it’s a milestone in a journey that’s been anything but linear. I’ve been building my career brick by brick, and moments like this make me pause and think, “Wow… I really did that.” It’s validation, but it’s also fuel.
How would you describe your lifestyle in three words right now? Productive. Out-of-body. Extravagant in the most humble way possible.
As we step into a new year, what’s your biggest resolution for yourself? To enlist help and allow myself to receive support. I’ve spent years doing everything on my own. 2025 is the year I make life easier instead of heavier.
What goals are at the top of your list for the year ahead, both personally and professionally? Professionally, to have the September Summers Foundation up and running, and to expand my luxury toy line into multiple countries. I want to take every opportunity that lights me up, shoots, runways, events, launches and run at them full speed. Personally, to squeeze absolutely everything out of life with gratitude and presence. No autopilot living.
Is there a skill or hobby you’ve recently picked up or want to learn soon? I’m determined to get more tech-savvy, mostly so I stop breaking my own phones. But if someone wanted to take me somewhere to “learn something new”… I wouldn’t say no.
If you had a free weekend with no responsibilities, how would you spend it?
Somewhere warm, spontaneous, and a little bit mischievous, cocktails at sunset, a seafood extravaganza, great company, and the kind of energy that keeps you smiling long after the night is over.
What’s a fear you’re determined to overcome? Sharks. I literally competed in Ironman with a magnetic shark band… and I’m still waiting to shake off my Jaws era.
If you could travel anywhere in the world this year, where would you go and why?
I’m so grateful for everywhere I’ve travelled already this year, but I’d love to go to Mexico for my love of tequila. Dubai, because I’ve never been. And Chernobyl, I’m fascinated by the history and would love to do one of the guided tours at the old plant.
What’s a passion outside of modelling that you hope to pursue more deeply? The mission behind my Foundation is to create a world where judgment loses its power and
compassion wins. I want to help people rebuild, reclaim themselves, and return home to who they are. It’s personal for me.
What’s one major career milestone you’re aiming to achieve next? I’m gearing up for AVN in January 2026 in Vegas. It’s a massive show, and I’m so excited for everything September Summers × LUXXXE we’ve got planned there. And beyond that, I’d love to
collect magazine covers on every continent that’s definitely on my hit list for 2026.
What new experiences or adventures are you hoping to try in the new year?
Something that scares me and makes me feel alive, whether that’s swimming with sharks, skydiving, or something I haven’t dared to put into words yet.
What advice would you give your younger self starting out in the industry? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Being true to yourself always pays off in the end. Take risks; the doors that look the scariest usually lead to the best rooms.
How do you hope people will remember you decades from now? As the woman who made a difference not just in her career, but in how people felt about themselves. Legacy over applause.
Where can our readers and fans keep up with you? Instagram: @septembersummers_ OnlyFans: September Summers.
