In an overview of this edition, the editor shares his perspective on the brand’s re-launch and details his exciting opportunity to meet the mogul.
RIHANNA: BEHIND THE THREADS
Rihanna’s first exclusive interview reveals her reasoning behind the re-launch, including the inspiration behind her shift in aesthetic. Rih dives into her relationship with LVMH and what it means to her.
CURRENT TRENDS
With trends playing a key role in the new line’s inspiration, an important trend of 2024 is explored, and how Fenty aims to promote it.
04 05 07
This section is dedicated to Fenty’s commitment to the environment and sustainability. Fenty’s dedication to reducing their carbon footprint is detailed, including a new approach to transparency, wasteful packaging, water consumption and eco-friendly materials.
CO TE TS N N
RIH-VIEW: RIHANNA’S TOP PICK
Rihanna’s top pick of her new line is revealed, marking the star product and the favourite of her new line. Although subtle, it marks a significant step forward for inclusivity.
WISDOM KAYE
Social media star Wisdom Kaye features in our SS24 ad campaign, alongside an interview giving exclusive insight into his creative process and his place in the fashion community.
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THE FENTY FIXATION: RIH’S MUST-HAVES
If you’ve ever wondered how Rihanna’s hair is so shiny or skin so flawless, Fenty magazine answers all with a few tips and tricks that help to keep up her perfect persona - straight from Rih herself!
20 QUESTIONS: PALOMA ELSESSER
Supermodel Paloma Elsesser kindly closes this edition with a series of quick-fire questions exploring her rise to fame, her response to haters and details about her personal life.
NRIHANNA’S RE AISSANCE:
style Rih-defined
Rih-defined
In this special launch-edition, we present the new Fenty. Overlooked by the empowering, bold and iconic Rihanna herself, this edition features exclusive interviews with the founder, her new Fenty essentials, and the true meaning of fashion. As the cover says, Rih is in full-bloom, with Fenty back and stronger than ever. Pairing up with photographer Carlijn Jacobs, I travelled to Beverly Hills to style and spend time with the superstar ahead of the brand’s re-launch.
“AS THE COVER SAYS, RIH IS IN FULL-BLOOM, WITH FENTY BACK AND STRONGER THAN EVER.”
At her modern farmhouse that is quintisentially Rihanna, I spent time with everyone’s favourite island girl, her two newest sources of inspiration, the gorgeous RZA and Riot Rose, and their father, ASAP Rocky. We sat down with Rihanna to understand the deeper meanings behind the re-brand, her new experiences with motherhood, and her legacy. As she approaches this new chapter, we are pleased to mark the magazine’s debut with exclusive Jacobs-own editorials, encapsulating the true essence of the new Fenty.
CURRENTLY:
Visit our flagship store in Soho, New York. With FIT MATCH technology in-store, discover your perfect size and fit. View our website to find out more.
The Fenty App is available to download now. With all Fenty brands under one roof, alongside our digital magazine subscription with instantly shoppable products, don’t miss out! Scan the QR code
Behind the Threads: the Unfiltered
Behind the Threads: the Unfiltered
RIHA NN A
Rihanna - successful entrepreneur, fashion icon, and mother - tells Fenty Magazine her takeover is far from over. With the revitalisation of the OG Fenty pairing nicely with the already-wide array of successful businesses under her belt, she gives the first-ever exclusive and unfiltered interview on the brand’s re-launch.
NF: Hi Rihanna! Thanks for joining us today, it’s great to have you. How have you been doing?
RF: Hey! No, thank you for having me, and please call me Rih. Honestly, I’m feeling great - very busy, but blessed.
NF: Yes, I think that could be considered an understatement! Which projects are you focussing on right now?
RF: Well my kids are a whole project in themselves, but in terms of business - I’ve been really focussed on the relaunch of Fenty, working with LVMH, as well as her siblings, Fenty Beauty and Savage. And of course, music is always in my heart, so I’ve been in the studio, too. Overall, I’m just thrilled for this new chapter in my life. I’ve had the chance to collaborate with so many inspiring people for Fenty’s re-launch and I’m so grateful.
NF: Ah, yes. As you mentioned - your relationship with LVMH, how is that?
RF: I mean, working with LVMH has truly been amazing. For such a big company like that to have faith in your vision means the world. They understand the how important fashion is to me, and how much I wanted the new Fenty to break boundaries, make fashion inclusive, and set trends. We are really looking to bring something fresh onto the scene. I get to create, inspire and make sure every voice is heard; so yeah, it’s a great pairing - and I’m loving every minute of it.
NF: That’s so great to hear. May I ask why the brand’s re-launch was so important to you?
RF: The whole Fenty family is really about pushing boundaries, and to hear
from people, especially my fans, that our previous collections didn’t connect was heartbreaking, for sure, but ultimately for the best; this re-brand is much more me. It’s not just about the clothing, which is obviously stunning, but what the person feels when they wear it - the attitude, the community, the vibe. It represents everything I love about fashion - no rules, androgynous, and unique. It definitely won’t be for everyone, but that’s okay.
“THIS RE-BRAND IS MUCH MORE ME.”
NF: I see. You mentioned there that it won’t be for everyone - is the whole purpose of a business not to appeal to as many people as possible, and generate profit?
RF: Of course money plays a part, but Fenty is so much more than just another corporate brand. From the start, I said to LVMH if the brand were to re-launch, it’d need to be three things: sustainable, diverse, and inclusive. These were all very important to me, and I care much more about empowerment, diversity and the environment than some profit.
NF: I love your approach, it’s truly refreshing. You also mentioned how the brand is more you - could you elaborate?
RF: Yeah, absolutely. When I say it’s more me, this brand, well, all of my brands, are an extension of myself. This one is an extension of my style and my creative vision. It’s not just about what looks good, it’s about what feels right, you know? I want to challenge norms and Fenty, she’s a girl in high-end streetwear with a bold and unapolagetic attitude. Which is very much me! At the end of the day, it’s all about creating something that’s authentic, that people can connect with.
NF: Other than yourself, were there any other sources of inspiration and aesthetics you wanted to explore when coming up with the new brand identity?
RF: Oh for sure. Our aim with this collection was to tap into that real, urban, gritty energy you find on the streets of New York and London. I was inspired by everyday people and the way they turn the streets into their runway. I took inspiration from current trend cycles, runways and hip-hop culture showing the realness, creativity and individuality people are craving right now. That’s the vibe I wanted to bring - a mix of high-fashion and street-style, much like my own, where you can dress it up, dress it down. The different backgrounds, body types and stories explored was heavily influential aimed to represent a large range of people. People need to have them the freedom to express themselves with fashion and have fun with it! And I think this new collection does that.
TRE DI G
N N
MAXIMALISM
Genderless MAXIMALISM
Recent runways have sparked a new craze for androgynous fashion, severing the old constraints of gendered dressing. Favoured by Rih herself, Fenty has adopted this direction into ready-to-wear streetwear, debuting a line suitable for self-expression and a rejection of traditional gender norms. The creation of a judgement-free and inclusive brand was very important to our founder, with the incorporation of fluid silhouettes, gender-neutral customisable accessories, inclusive sizing, and androgynous tailoring making statement pieces sure to make many heads turn. It signifies a powerful movement toward an inclusive future.
Majesty wearing a cropped kableknit cashmere jumper, cotton poplin shirt, jersey bra, cotton twill miniskirt, jersey knickers and leather belt, by FENTY
At Fenty, the environment is one of our core priorities. With the fashion we deem it our duty to set new industry standards when it comes overconsumption. And here’s
COMPLETE SUPPLY CHAIN TRANSPARENCY
We have centred our new business plan on climate commitments and circularity. This includes total disclosure of the material composition of our clothing, closing the supplier and production inequality gap, including fair working conditions, an eradication of wage theft, and a diverse production team. Total transparency is essential to Fenty, allowing our products’ origins to be fully traced by us and customers. This will allow for greater quality control in our production, in terms of both clothing and ethical standards, with your satisfaction guaranteed.
Find out more on our website.
DECREASED PLASTIC USAGE
As climate change and the damage done to our water eco-systems grows, Fenty deem it an urgent issue in need of tackling. This is seen in the interior of our flagship, where we utilised 3D-printing technology to create shelves, rugs and coathangers with recycled plastics.
We have also adopted new sustainable packaging initiatives, with our packaging being completely biodegradable and made of recycled materials. Our brand has made every effort to reduce the use of single-use plastic in packaging, with everything down to this magazine consisting of environmentally-friendly materials, with its main composition being recycled paper with zero-waste printing. Our full edition comes encased in personalised beeswax wrap, which is available to be reused by our consumers. Deliveries will also be sustainable, with eco-friendly recycled cardboard.
fashion industry producing 10% of all global carbon emissions per year, comes to greenhouse gas emissions, supply chain transparency and here’s how we aim to tackle it.
BIO-BASED & BIO-DEGRADABLE MATERIALS
Fenty have partnered with the Better Cotton Initiative to exclusively use bio-based natural materials, such as organic cotton (photographed) in our clothing - grown without environment-damaging pesticides and chemicals. The reduced environmental impact reduces Fenty’s overall carbon footprint and helps to build a brighter future. It also benefits our workers, too, creating safer working conditions, relating to our pledge to ensure better working environments.
Materials such as wool and silk provides great alternatives to harmful compositions consisting of petrochemicals, such as nylon and polyester, which pollute our atmosphere through the creation of nitrous oxide. The fact they are biodegradable means they can decompose naturally, alongside its obvious comfort benefits, with wool being great for insulation, great for our outerwear, and silk for our flowy dresses, due to its lightweight and effortless draping. Our wool and silk are both sourced ethically, with wool originating from farms that are dedicated to animal welfare, and our silk is ahimsa, produced without harming silkworms.
REDUCED WATER CONSUMPTION
With the fashion industry said to use 93 billion cubic metres of water annually, enough to quench the first of 5 million people, we have worked closely with our factories to reduce the amount of water used and polluition produced when creating garments. Water pollution will be further decreased through the types of chemicals and dyes used on our clothing, with non-toxic dyes such as plant-based dyes derived from tumeric and berries being used to combat this issue. Non-harmful dyes and a reduction in pollution also creates better working and living environments for our workers who live locally. The brand using more natural materials such as cotton will help to decrease water consumption. Less wastewater is generated, lowering Fenty’s environmental impact.
Our clothing will always come with clear instructions for greater water efficiency during washing, ensuring our commitment to minimising water consumption does not end with us!
Adual Jok Akol wearing the cropped cotton and lace camisole, cotton tweed miniskirt, and satin bow knickers by FENTY, accessories by FLORENCE WEST
ASAP Rocky wearing the, double-breasted striped blazer, collared shirt, tweed maxi-skirt and oversized suit pants, by FENTY, accessories and steel-tip Michele
boots by GUCCI
RIH-VIEW: Fenty Favs Fenty Favs
During our sit-down with Rihanna, we also asked her which product from her new line was her favourite, and understandably, she chose the newest conteporary streetwear wardrobe staple: a skirt. And, while it could be criticised for being a rather simple or safe option, its versatility in the streetwear sector makes it one of this season’s most important staples.
One key pull factor is its ability to be dressed up and dressed down. Whether its paired with a blazer, shirt and tie (as photographed), or with a graphic tee and jeans underneath, skirts are always certain to make a statement and express your individuality, helping to separate your personal style from your peers’. This links to the skirt’s more functional appeal and its great adaptability. With multiple lengths, materials and sizes available on our website, a skirt’s versatility helps to create its adaptability to different situations, making it clear to see why it’s one of Rih’s favourites.
As mentioned with its versatility, a skirt is compatible with current trends in streetwear and wider culture, with the layering opportunities it opens up. This is reminiscent of the larger Y2K and ‘90s aesthetic currently trending, and the punk movement of the ‘70s. A blend of a skirt with other streetwear elements such as denim, leather and cargo materials helps to create the new relaxed and edgy Fenty look that Rihanna does so excellently. Its comfort and mobility is also suitable for the urban lifestyle, making it appropriate
for both a casual Saturday with friends, or a day at the office.
Another central reason for a skirt’s presence in the Fenty collection is its ability to be unisex. Central to the new brand’s identity, the incorporation of a skirt helps to break outdated oppressive gender norms, celebrating inclusivity and pushing the boundaries of fashion. The incorporation of gender-neutral elements in the Fenty range is crucial, with a mainstream brand having the power to change public attitudes and introduce skirts more into the mainstream.
This will help to reduce stigma surrounding stereotypically-feminine clothing, which is rooted in misogyny and notably important in combatting toxic masculinity. A social normalisation of men in skirts also represents a small step toward reduce racial-conflict, with many non-Western cultures sporting dresses and skirts as formal atttire. With current times centering around self-acceptance, skirts becoming commonplace will serve as a symbol of freedom from gender restraints and the acceptance of individuality: something Rihanna prides herself on and encourages her fans to pursue.
Wisdom Kaye wearing the floral blazer, cotton inner coat, collared shirt, pleated grey maxi-skirt and belt, by FENTY, accessories and boots by GUIDI
NF: Hi Wisdom, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re excited to have you here. First, would you mind telling me about your fashion journey and what inspired you to start posting your fashions on social media?
WK: Hi, thanks for having me! I’m just as excited. And of course. Well, I’ve always loved fashion and experimenting with silhouettes expressing my individuality through clothing. But I started posting on TikTok and Instagram during the pandemic, where people had a really positive response to them. From there, it just kept growing and I keep pushing myself to be even more out there and experimental with my outfits.
NF: That’s so interesting - I’m glad something good came out of the pandemic! It’s amazing how social media has found a community that resonates with your style. What are some of the best things to have come out of it?
RF: Well I’m obviously working with Rihanna which is awesome! But other than that, I’ve had some seriously amazing opportunities. I’ve had the
chance to model for some of the biggest brands in the world, including Dior and Gucci. It has truly been the best decision I’ve ever made.
NF: Yes, your work with Rihanna! How did that come about and why did you resonate with the brand?
WK: It was actually through Rihanna personally, believe it or not! She said that she was a fan of my work and asked me to come in for a shoot and offered me a chance to be in the first edition of her magazine. I was so honoured and flattered. But, in terms of the brand - I’ve always loved everything Fenty stands for, with Rihanna being the queen of diversity, inclusion and fashion. She consistently raises the bar for industry standards and from experimenting with this new range myself, I can confidently say she has done it again. The brand is all about celebrating individuality and embracing uniqueness, which is how my entire career started off, and I really resonate with that. Plus, you can’t say no when Rih calls you personally! She’s truly an icon and visionary, just inspiring.
NF: That sounds incredible. It’s great to hear how Rihanna’s vision has resonated with you and, I’m sure, many others too. On the same topic of self-expression, I just wanted to ask you your opinions on the current menswear landscape.
WK: Like all of fashion, it is ever-changing. I think we’re moving toward a less gender-restricted era. I’ve seen more experimenting, especially from younger men, with men experimenting with traditionally “feminine” clothes, such as skirts, jewellery and dresses. However, wider social norms are still very much present. But a shift towards a blend of streetwear and high-fashion has given a lot of flexibility with what is deemed acceptable now. That’s why I love to work with brands such as Fenty who challenge those norms and create a seamless crossover which leaves the customer feeling empowered, regardless of how society views them. Sustainability is also becoming increasingly important, which is great to see, and Fenty’s emphasis on transparency is a great positive shift for the luxury fashion industry.
WISDOM KAYE
THE FE TY FIXATION
Rihanna’s Must-Haves Rihanna’s Must-Haves
Get everything our queen is loving this season.
From left to right:
FENTY SKIN Fat Water, $35.00 and Total Remove-It-All Cleanser, $30.00
Anok Yai wearing the pink long-sleeved ruffle maxidress, by FENTY, bag and closed-toe laced kitten heels by ACNE STUDIOS
What’s a moment in your career that makes you feel proud?
I’d have to say being on the cover of Vogue, not only for me but also for body positivity and empowerment. Name your biggest pet peeve. When people aren’t kind - it’s free and goes a long way!
Who is your role model?
My mom. She’s my number-one fan and taught me the significance of self-love. What is one product you can’t live without?
A plain white Hanes tank. Oh, and an espresso maker!
What is a book that has inspired you?
“The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison. What’s your signature scent?
Something warm, vanilla-y. Something inviting.
A guilty pleasure that you can’t resist?
A trashy reality TV show - it helps me relax and distract me.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to younger Paloma?
Embrace your body and stop trying to conform to beauty standards. Confidence comes from you, not people’s approval.
What’s your favourite genre of music?
R&B for sure!
How best to style a simple outfit? Layering - with other pieces of clothing or jewellery.
How do I find my perfect picture-angle?
Always depends on the lighting. And don’t try to force it!
Best advice you’ve received? Be unapolagetically yourself. What’s the best fashion accessory? Confidence.
How do you practice self-care?
I make sure to have a lot of me-time; baths, reading and the outside is great.
Which trend should you avoid?
All trends. Wear what makes you feel confident!
Name one style inspiration of yours. I look up to a mix of people, but anyone who expresses their own style - like Rihanna.
How do you stay career-motivated?
I remind myself why I started, to inspire. My fans also keep me going.
20 QUESTIO S With
How do you stay connected with fans?
I stay active on social media, through Instagram and TikTok. I love engaging with my followers.
What is a beauty product you can’t live without?
An amazing moisturiser is a must! How do you deal with criticism or negative comments?
I try to focus on the positive and stay true to myself regardless of talk.
With Paloma Elsesser
Paloma Elsesser
Rihanna wearing oversized cotton blazer, striped shirt, durag and velvet ruffle gloves by FENTY, accessories and neckerchief by BURBERRY
