In December 1953, Hugh Hefner began publishing "Playboy" and the magazine became popular, in part, because of early appearances from Mansfield, Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page, and Anita Ekberg. In February 1955, Mansfield was the "Playboy" Playmate of the Month, and appeared in the magazine several times. Her February appearance increased the magazine's circulation and helped boost Mansfield's career. Shortly afterward, she posed for the "Playboy" calendar, covering her breasts with her hands. "Playboy" featured Mansfield each February from 1955 to 1958, and again in 1960.