Rihanna, a global superstar, has not only captured the world with her music but has also left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Known for her daring and innovative style, Rihanna has transformed fashion, making bold statements and setting trends with her iconic looks. In this article, we explore 10 groundbreaking outfits that have defined her career and underscored her status as a fashion icon.
1. The Swarovski Crystal Dress (CFDA Awards, 2014)
At the 2014 CFDA Awards, Rihanna turned heads in a custom Adam Selman sheer gown encrusted with over 200,000 Swarovski crystals. This daring ensemble, paired with a fur stole and a matching headscarf, was not just a fashion statement but a declaration of confidence and individuality, securing her status as a fashion icon.
2. The Yellow Guo Pei Gown (Met Gala, 2015)
Rihanna’s choice of a dramatic, yellow, fur-trimmed cape gown by Chinese designer Guo Pei for the 2015 Met Gala is unforgettable. The outfit, which took two years to create, perfectly captured the theme of the gala, “China: Through the Looking Glass,” and showcased Rihanna’s willingness to take fashion risks.
3. The Pope-Inspired Outfit (Met Gala, 2018)
Never one to shy away from bold Met Gala themes, Rihanna arrived in 2018 dressed as the fashion pope. Her outfit, designed by Maison Margiela, featured a pearl and crystal-encrusted robe, a papal mitre, and a matching mini dress, embodying the gala’s “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” theme to perfection.
4. The Denim Dress (Paris Fashion Week, 2015)
Rihanna’s ability to elevate casual materials was evident when she stepped out in a denim dress by Adam Selman during Paris Fashion Week 2015. Paired with thigh-high boots, the outfit redefined street style, blending high fashion with everyday wear.
5. The Tulle Dress (Grammys, 2015)
At the 2015 Grammy Awards, Rihanna chose a voluminous pink tulle dress by Giambattista Valli. The dress, which looked like a gorgeous cloud of cotton candy, showcased her playful and feminine side, contrasting with her often edgy style choices.
6. The Crop Over Festival Costume (Barbados, 2017)
Rihanna’s return to her native Barbados for the 2017 Crop Over Festival saw her in a jewel-encrusted bikini with matching turquoise hair. This look, embodying the vibrancy and energy of the festival, highlighted her ability to blend cultural celebration with fashion-forward thinking.
7. The Fenty x Puma Show (New York Fashion Week, 2016)
As the creative director of Puma, Rihanna showcased her design prowess with the Fenty x Puma collection at NYFW 2016. Her outfit, a black lace-up bodysuit with oversized white track pants, was both sporty and sexy, blurring the lines between athletic wear and high fashion.
8. The Dior Trench Coat (Paris, 2017)
Rihanna’s visit to the Christian Dior show in Paris 2017 was marked by her wearing a luxurious leather trench coat by the brand. The ensemble, which included futuristic sunglasses and black leather boots, was a masterclass in how to wear monochrome.
9. The Pregnant Belly-Revealing Outfit (Dior Show, Paris Fashion Week, 2022)
In a stunning display of maternity fashion, Rihanna stepped out for the Dior show during Paris Fashion Week 2022 in a sheer black dress that proudly showcased her pregnant belly. The look was a powerful statement on body positivity and the beauty of motherhood.
10. The Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 2 Ensemble (2020)
At her own Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 2, Rihanna wore a black leather ensemble that highlighted the inclusive and diverse nature of her lingerie brand. The look was not just about fashion but also about celebrating diversity and body positivity.
Rihanna’s fashion journey is a testament to her fearless approach to self-expression and her unwavering influence on the fashion industry. Through these iconic looks, she has not only defined her own career but has also encouraged others to embrace their individuality with boldness and confidence.
