In December 2017, Vogue Paris presented a striking set of three different covers, each featuring the Barbadian superstar Rihanna. This unprecedented approach not only highlighted her versatility as a fashion icon but also set a new standard in the portrayal of celebrity within the fashion industry. This essay examines the significance of these covers, delving into how they encapsulate Rihanna’s multifaceted persona and the broader implications for trends in fashion publishing.
Each of the three covers offered a distinct representation of Rihanna, showcasing her ability to traverse diverse fashion landscapes—from the edgy and modern to the classic and timeless. The first cover portrayed her as a modern-day glam rock icon, with bold makeup and styling that paid homage to the 70s rock aesthetics. This look was not just about revisiting a bygone era; it was a reinterpretation of the theme with a contemporary edge, reflective of Rihanna’s renowned ability to set trends.
The second cover took a different turn, presenting Rihanna in a more subdued, introspective pose that evoked a sense of classic glamour and timelessness. The choice of a monochrome palette and minimalistic makeup highlighted her natural features, offering a stark contrast to the first cover. This approach mirrored the traditional fashion photography of the mid-20th century, emphasizing the enduring appeal of understated elegance.
The third cover was perhaps the most avant-garde, featuring Rihanna in a floral ensemble that blurred the lines between fashion and art. The vibrant colors and the bold, almost surreal floral headpiece she donned created an image that was both striking and whimsical. This cover stood out as a testament to the high fashion industry’s ongoing dialogue with contemporary art, showcasing how fashion can serve as a canvas for artistic expression.
The decision by Vogue Paris to feature Rihanna in three different styles on its covers spoke volumes about the evolving landscape of fashion media. Traditionally, fashion magazines have steered towards a single iconic image to define an issue. By choosing to break this convention, Vogue Paris not only highlighted the multifaceted nature of Rihanna but also challenged its readers to engage with the concept of identity as a collection of diverse, sometimes contradictory parts.
These covers also demonstrated the power of celebrity in shaping fashion. Rihanna, through her numerous endeavors in music, business, and fashion, has cultivated an image that is both accessible and aspirational. Her influence extends beyond her music, touching on various aspects of culture and style. By featuring her in such varied guises, Vogue Paris acknowledged her as a modern-day muse who embodies the dynamic spirit of contemporary fashion.
Furthermore, this approach reflected a shift in how celebrities are portrayed in media. No longer just the face of a product or brand, celebrities today are seen as collaborators, active participants in the creative process. Rihanna’s involvement in the styling and creative direction of the photoshoots for these covers exemplifies this trend. She is not just a subject but a co-creator, imbuing each image with her unique aesthetic and vision.
The impact of these covers extends beyond their visual appeal. They are indicative of a broader cultural movement towards recognizing and celebrating diversity in fashion representation. By presenting multiple facets of a single individual, Vogue Paris encouraged a dialogue about identity in the modern world—one that is increasingly fluid and layered.
