Possibly the most highly anticipated fashion show since FW23 wrapped has finally dropped, and we can’t say we’re disappointed. Once again, Rihanna has brought forth some of the hottest, most innovative designs in both lingerie and sportswear presented in a mystical forest full of dancers, singers and a diverse assemblage of models. The first three renditions of the Savage X Fenty have all been wildly successful, culturally significant moments, but it’s volume 4 that we crown as the most surreal opus yet.
Rihanna showed off her curvy figure early in the show as she appeared to be reigning over her mystic forest kingdom. Looking as powerful as she does seductive, RiRi commanded attention atop a fallen tree trunk, moving to the beat in a busty blue corset with lace detailing, sheer black trousers, polka dot opera gloves, a voluminous afro and a gorgeous gold shimmer on her lips and eyes.
The show showcased extremely talented individuals donning the new collection. Don Toliver performed ‘way bigger’ from his 2021 sophomore album and debuted a new single that sampled ‘Take your time (do it right)’ by The S.O.S band. Maxwell performed a soulfully sweet rendition of his 1996 Grammy-nominated tune ‘Whenever Wherever Whatever’. Anitta, the Brazillian singer everyone’s obsessed with right now, showed off her incredible figure in a bra and thong under a black mesh bodysuit with a bdsm-inspired leather harness whilst performing her hit Practice & Envolver. Nigerian singer-songwriter-producer closed the performances with an eruptive production of his instant summer hit ‘Last Last’ followed by ‘It’s Plenty’ from his studio album ‘Love, Damini’. The artists represent themselves in physical and cartoon form, with effortless animated transitions adding to the dream-like experience.
Besides the clothes, the complex dance scenes and Emmy award-winning choreography exhibited throughout are breathtaking, extremely well created and performed. The dancing feels ritualistic and meaningful, with exciting prop use and powerful performances throughout.
As always, Rihanna included a wide variety of models of all genders, sizes, races and ages. Cara Delevigne flashed some flesh in a glimmering black lingerie set whilst surrounded by a sea of dancers connected by their pony braids. Zola star Taylour Paige delivered an unforgettable monologue that put the savage in Savage X Fenty. Abbot Elementary actress Sheryl Lee Ralph and Golden Globe-winning Empire Actress Taraji P. Henson proved that sexy had no age limit to the tune of the Ying Yang Twins’ Wait (The Whisper Song). Other notable guest appearances include Winston Duke, Precious Lee, Joan Smalls, Simu Liu, Bella Poarch and Lilly Singh.
People online are, of course, popping off about how great the show was, but Rihanna has caught some heat for her controversial inclusion of actor Johnny Depp with many claiming this goes against her brand’s core tenants of female empowerment.
You can watch the trailer for the show below or watch the full show out now on Amazon Prime.
Words by Giuliana Zamudio-Lopez
Graphics By Arundhati Das
