I have to say that my first thought when I saw the announcement of these covers was, "sheesh, how much is that costing them?" I know, it's a side effect of being a fashion editor, but terribly gauche. But here are four of the top earning models in the world, all shot on the sandy shores of some exotic location, for covers and inside editorials of the October issue of US Elle 2011. Count 'em — four. Adriana Lima. Miranda Kerr. Chanel Iman. Doutzen Kroes. Amazing.

I am also a bit confused as the US heads into winter, they are doing a glossy beach story. Hmmm. A bit strange, no? But it looks super-rich and amazing, so who am I to nit-pick. Enjoy.