September 2020 Magazine Covers We Loved and Hated

Even in the midst of a pandemic, the September issues are still the most important editions on the print calendar. And this year, editors had to get creative. Some September 2020 covers really hit the mark. But, as usual, some fall completely flat. Vogue decided to focus on hope with many of its editions, including British Vogue’s salute to activism. What really impresses us about the current crop of September covers is how diverse the cover stars are. Hunter Schafer wins the month with a pair of breathtaking Allure covers. Rihanna is (once again) the face of Harper’s Bazaar. And Jill Kortleve stars on Vogue Netherlands’ latest offering. On the fashion front, we are both pleased and disappointed. InStyle is a clear winner by outfitting Zendaya in two striking looks. Both ELLE Spain and Town & Country surprised us with their stylish covers. We’re still on the fence regarding Vogue Paris’ ode to the 80s, though. See the slideshow above for the best and worst September 2020 covers.

September 2020 Covers

Vogue

Vogue commissioned two artists to create two covers for its highly anticipated September 2020 issue. Jordan Casteel decided to paint Aurora James with the fashion designer wearing a grand Pyer Moss blue silk creation. Kerry James Marshall created a fictional character he decked out in Off-White.
Harper's Bazaar

You can never go wrong with Rihanna.
Allure

Who would have guessed that a beauty mag would deliver the best covers of the month?
British Vogue

The mag shines a light on activists on its pull-out cover.
InStyle

Thankfully, InStyle gave us fashion and Zendaya for September.
ELLE

Cardi B literally shines on this blinged-out offering.
Vogue Paris

Proof 80s fashion is still trending.
Town & Country

The contrast between the lilac Cushnie dress and the leafy background is so striking.
Vogue Japan

A super sexy cover for September.
Vanity Fair

A touching tribute.
ELLE UK

We love Adwoa Aboah, but this smiling shot is a miss.
Vogue Germany

The fact that the flowers (mostly) cover Nicole Atieno’s face ruins this cover.
Vanity Fair Spain

A strong shot of Cindy Crawford, but we’re not fans of the black dress.
Vogue China

The colorful yet hazy background really stands out.
ELLE Spain

We actually love the layout here — and the outfit.
Vogue Netherlands

Jill Kortleve giving good face.
Cosmopolitan

The awkward pose takes away from Joey King’s outfit.
Vogue Spain

The styling isn’t great, but the magenta hair ups the ante.