Be Fierce, Feminine & Fearless
Meet this month’s cover star Claudia Fijal / @claudiafijal
Photography Joshua Paull / @jpaullphoto
Such an absolute honour to have you on Playboy: Can you give us a bit of a background on your career as a model and where it all started? Thank you, it’s such an honor to be here. My modeling career started when I was just a teenager with a dream and a lot of determination. I grew up fascinated by the art of transformation, how makeup, styling, and presence could create a whole new world. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to work with incredible brands and photographers who helped me evolve from being in front of the camera to truly understanding the storytelling behind it. Modeling became my passport into self-expression, and it’s what ultimately led me to create my own beauty brand, Saint by Claudia.
What’s a project or goal you’re currently working on that you’re really excited about? Right now, I’m completely immersed in expanding Saint by Claudia. I want to redefine what luxury beauty means. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling divine, seen, and empowered. I’m also working on more creative direction behind the brand’s campaigns. I love having my hands on every detail, from the visuals to the messaging. My other absolute favorite project on the planet is creating music with my husband, LUCRE (@followlucre). He is a techno producer that’s exploding on the music scene, and we have created a ton of incredible tracks together, and have many more to come.
What is at the top of your list to achieve the most in 2025? Balance and expansion, both personally and professionally. I want Saint by Claudia to become a household name, but I also want to continue evolving as a creator and woman. My goal is to collaborate with more legacy luxury brands and step further into entrepreneurship. I’m passionate about building something that lasts.
What does it mean for you to be seen as a strong, intelligent, ambitious woman? It means everything. For a long time, women were told they could be beautiful or smart, soft or powerful. I’ve always rejected that idea. I believe you can walk into a room to close million-dollar deals and still have empathy and grace. Strength isn’t about being untouchable; it’s about being rooted in who you are.
What would you say makes you stand out in the industry? Authenticity. I’ve been in this industry for over two decades, and what keeps people’s attention is the truth. I don’t chase trends, I set them based on what feels genuine to me. My audience knows I only share what I truly believe in, and that’s what builds connection.
What are some of your biggest passions? Beauty, obviously. It’s my love language. But also wellness, psychology, and storytelling. I’m deeply passionate about self-awareness and helping women reconnect with their worth. Everything I create, from content to products, is meant to inspire that feeling of you are enough, and you can still want more.
If you weren’t in the entertainment world, what career would you love to explore? Definitely something still in the business world. I’m fascinated with building a brand from scratch, and I think we live in a society where it’s easier than ever with the power of our cell phones.
Three ultimate deal breakers when it comes to men? Lack of ambition, lack of communication, and arrogance. I’m drawn to men who are emotionally intelligent and self-aware. You can be powerful and still be kind; that’s real masculinity.
We are taking you out on your ultimate date, and we really want to knock this one out of the ballpark. What would that entail? Something simple but intentional. A rooftop dinner overlooking the city, great food, deep conversation, and energy that feels easy. I don’t need a production; I value presence. If he makes me laugh and keeps me mentally stimulated, I’m all in.
What are some of the things that attract you to a man? Confidence without ego. I love a man who’s driven, grounded, and secure in himself. Someone who celebrates my strength instead of feeling threatened by it. Bonus points if he has taste and knows how to carry himself; style is definitely foreplay.
You have one last chance to do something you’ve always wanted to do, with no limits on anything. What are you doing? I’d host a global women’s retreat in the Maldives, equal parts empowerment, luxury, and connection. I’d want to create a space where women can heal, transform, and step fully into their divine power. Oh, and maybe fly there on my own private jet while I’m at it, go big or go home, right?.
That said, what advice would you give to all the women out there when it comes to love and relationships? Never abandon yourself for love. If you have to shrink to be loved, it’s not love, it’s control. The right person will make you feel more you, not less. Prioritize your peace, keep your standards high, and remember: you teach people how to love you by how you love yourself.
Where can our readers catch up with you and stay updated with your work? You can find me on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. I’m always sharing beauty tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates from Saint by Claudia. My handles on all those platforms is @claudiafijal. And of course, I encourage you to check out @saintbyclaudia for all your beauty needs.
We are so happy to have gotten to know you a little bit! Any last words out there for our readers? Thank you for having me. My message to everyone reading: don’t wait for permission to reinvent yourself. You can be soft and fierce, feminine and fearless, that’s real power. Own it.
