Rihanna Covers ESSENCE’s January/February 2021 Issue

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — International R&B singer, pop star, beauty mogul, fashion designer, style icon, multibillion-dollar businesswoman and philanthropist Rihanna covers ESSENCE’s January/February 2021 issue.

For the first in the publication’s 50 year history, the brand commissioned the esteemed Lorna Simpson to interpret modern-day beauty in collaboration with the global star. The result: A series of original photographic collages for the cover and 12-page portfolio entitled, “Of Earth & Sky.”

“Lorna is a legend,” said Rihanna, 32, of the artist whose lauded career spans three decades. Although teaming with Simpson was an idea conceived with her creative director, Jahleel Weaver, Rihanna was trepidatious about taking the first step. “Honestly, I just didn’t think I could get her,” Rihanna laughed. “But I like reaching for the stars and I like challenging myself.”

“[Collaborating] with Rihanna and ESSENCE magazine is quite incredible,” Simpson said while on set. “As an artist, I’m able to deliver these unusual images of someone who is so well-known and so recognizable… It’s an amazing opportunity.”

Rihanna agreed. “It’s a natural trifecta,” she said. “It’s like magic.”

For this issue, Riri styles in Rick Owens, Savage x Fenty, Givenchy, Maison Margiela, Hood by Air, Amina Muaddi, and more.

Head over to ESSENCE to read more.

Photos Credit: Lorna Simpson