Turning 40 is a milestone for every woman. But when you’re Kate Moss, even your regular birthday celebrations are the stuff of legend. How to top that?

Pose naked for Playboy, of course.

One of fashion’s worst kept secrets is out today, as Hugh Hefner’s infamous title confirms that it will feature Moss in an issue due out early next year to tie-in with its 60th anniversary celebrations, as well as the dawning of a new decade for Kate.

Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Playboy’s editorial director, Jimmy Jellinek, said: ‘This is a massive global brand. You need a global icon in order to celebrate that — that was the impetus. You’re talking about the face of Burberry, the biggest supermodel in the world on the cover of Playboy. She’s the perfect partner for us to help launch the next 60 years.’

'This creates a heat for the brand globally. It started with Marilyn Monroe on the cover of Playboy 60 years ago, an icon for her time. Now we've got Kate Moss!'

The shoot is said to have taken place in March, with Marcus Pigott and Mert Alas behind the lens.

‘She’s a worldwide celebrity and iconic and crosses the boundaries from sexual imagery to upscale modelling,’ Playboy founder Hugh Hefner added. ‘It’s a natural for us.’

London Fashion Week: front row and parties