It isn’t an album… and Rihanna has faced some backlash after the show.
Robyn Rihanna Fenty is a Grammy award winning artist, blockbuster film actress, beauty icon and renowned fashion designer – essentially the ultimate creator. “Rihanna kicked the door down and opened up the world to all these possibilities” – Yusef Williams Exclusive to Amazon Prime, the Barbados native has blessed us with her second Savage X Fenty lingerie spectacle –Riri, thank you for making our 2020 better. Fashion show would not be an adequate way to describe this event as It transcends this– it is a visual experience that incorporates choreography, lighting, music, staging and of course costuming.
Here is what we took away from this creative masterpiece:
The discussion surrounding cultural appropriation of Islamic practices
While the show was a knock-out visual experience, and the show received praise for its diversity, a song used in the show sparked much controversy. ‘Doom’ by Coucou Chloe, utilised vocal samples of a Hadith. The phrases within the track are sacred Islamic phrases, which are records of traditions, sayings and documented actions of the Prophet Muhammad. They also provide guidance on religious practices and the correct forms of greetings.
Rhianna issued an apology following the backlash.
“I’d like to thank the Muslim community for pointing out a huge oversight that was unintentionally offensive in our savage x fenty show. I would more importantly like to apologize to you for this honest, yet careless mistake. We understand that we have hurt many of our Muslim brothers and sisters, and i’m incredibly disheartened by this! I do not play with any kind of disrespect toward God or any religion and therefore the use of the song in our project was completely irresponsible! Moving forward we will make sure nothing like this ever happens again. Thank you for your forgiveness and understanding,” Rih.
It was a star-studded event
Some notable features in this experience include: Demi Moore, Lizzo, Willow, Irina Shayk, Rosalía, Bad Bunny, Travis Scott, Young Thug, Big Sean, Christian Combs, Erika Jayne, Paris Hilton, Miguel, Normani, Bella Hadid, Cara Delevingne, Rico Nasty and of course, Mrs Fenty herself.
These are huge names in entertainment. But let’s be honest, if you’re asked to be in the annual Savage X Fenty show, you’re taking the gig.
The ‘Needed Me’ singer isn’t just putting her name on a random brand and calling It her own
As with anything this talent woman does, she does it properly. Between the actual performances and showcasing of her latest range, we are treated to intimate insights of her creative process. There is a segment alone on Rihanna’s inspiration, emphasising her choices of fabric. She even admits that her love of wanting to touch every fabric she sees has gotten her into trouble in museums around the world. The Clara Lionel Foundation founder takes a hands-on approach to her work as Savage X Fenty’s Design Director Emily Whitehead says “she puts her stamp on it”.
The ‘Ocean’s 8’ actress also delves into topics such as community, sexuality and how her mood is a key factor in her style choices.
The collection is FIRE
The Billboard charting performer is truly deserving of her own line. The colours, the styles, the variety of options is remarkable – and damn, they look good. Whether you are looking for something bright and daring, or a piece that is more safe and classic, Savage X Fenty has what you need – seeing how they look on real people is even better.
Rihanna is Queen
At one point in the event, Ms Fenty literally blooms out of a flower – and so she should. Savage X Fenty is just one of many ventures @badgalriri has successful developed and has helped solidify her status as a multitalented singer, business woman and designer. Her go-getter attitude is an inspiration to many, and proves why she is a “global artist” as Erika Jayne describes. Her final catwalk on the runway is confident and fierce, resembling the attitudes she has instilled in others.
What could be considered one of the most memorable moments of the special is the advice she gave her 10-year-old self: “Just roll with it girl. Be grateful always, be thankful always and let God take you on the ride” – In uncertain times such as now, Rihanna just knows what we need to hear (even if it was meant for 10-year-old Robyn).
If you want to shop the line and embrace your inner ‘savage’, make sure to check out Savage X Fenty’s latest collection on Amazon.
The full version of Savage X Fenty Vol.2 is also available on Amazon Prime.
