Queen Rihanna has been enjoying huge success with her underwear label Savage X Fenty.
The singer has received huge praise for offering representation for plus size women, trans women, and pregnant women, and for showcasing a wide array of body types in her shows.
Promoting her Christmas Collection on Instagram, Rihanna posted a stunning snap of herself modelling a pair of red briefs.
“We getting NAUGHTY-not-NICE this season! @savagexfenty just dropped The Ultimate Gift Guide to help you shop gifts for everybody in ya life !! Hit up SavageX.com to get 50% off everything for a limited time!”
Tbh we barely read the caption because we were far too busy staring at how drop-dead gorgeous she is in the post, but obviously we will be lining up to get whatever this gal offers us.
Naturally, the topless pic pretty much set the internet on fire, and went instantly viral. Everything she does goes viral, but this is next level fire.
Fans are still spamming the singer, actress and fashion icon regarding news of her ninth studio album, and one particularly quick fan noticed that RiRi registered two new songs:
.@Rihanna has registered two new songs titled “Waist Line Down” And “Nah Left.” Is her album coming sooner than we expect? #R9pic.twitter.com/OUe0PwKQUU
We, on the other hand, roll out of bed and can only pray that we manage to look semi-decent instead of the apocalyptic zombie which was passed out in bed only moments earlier…
If I can remember to put toothpaste on my toothbrush instead of moisturiser, I think I’m winning.
These celebrity gals, however, are often expected to look #RedCarpetReady 24 hours a day, which sounds exhausting, to be honest.
We decided it was time to watch these notorious Vogue Vids to study the movements and cosmetic habits of faces such as Bad Gal Riri (she doesn’t need make-up, make-up needs her), Emily Ratajkowski, Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid to see just how relatable these ladies are.
We were inspired by the hilarious Maddison Bush, who uploaded parody version of a make-up tutorial while attempting to imitate Vogue's famous faces.
Hint: not relatable in the slightest. Not even close to it.
1. First up, Bella Hadid.
As we all know, Bella is one half of the supermodel sister duo of herself and Gigi Hadid, AKA: two of the most ridiculously stunning human beings on the planet. We actually doubt if they’re human… they look like they were made in a laboratory for beautiful people. No fair.
From the very start of these videos, it’s already hard to find anything in common with these women. They are all doing their beauty regime in unnaturally aesthetic bathrooms in luxurious hotels or mansions, whereas we’re struggling to find a mirror that isn’t covered in foundation smudge marks, or are possibly in the queue for the house bathroom for the last 35 minutes.
From the second models such as Bella face the camera, it’s difficult to choke down the fact that they aren’t wearing any make-up because they already look damn FLAWLESS.
Like, wig = snatched from the beginning. *sigh*
The videos are also alarmingly short, considering most of us take at least 15 minutes to put our faces on. The fact that famous faces only take 5 minutes to look that good is frankly both disturbing and insulting to my pale palour.
(I’ve been asked if I am anaemic countless times, I’ve just started saying yes now, it’s easier).
Bella begins by saying “models can do their own make-up too!” Good to know, Bella. Good to know. You’re very normal.
She continues by saying, “I look really tired because I’ve been travelling for two months straight.” You poor gal Bella, travelling the world in private jets and glamorous clothing must be devastating to your complexion.
Bella uses concealer, a contour stick, highlighter, brow pencil, lash primer and mascara to complete her look in five minutes.
By the end of the video, she’s essentially ready for the Victoria’s Secret carpet, minus the wings. It’s offensive. *cries in poor*
Relatability level: 2/5.
2. Kendall Jenner. Also known as ‘KANDALL JANNARRR’.
She’s already using products we can’t even dream of affording without selling our organs illegally online, so the relatability factor is null from the beginning.
She claims that she “learns a lot from being on set.” Us too, Kendall. We frequent photoshoots on the reg constantly, it’s the cross we bear.
Relatability level: 1/5. Sorry Kendall, but your bathroom alone is next level boujee.
3. Lili Reinhart.
Our third gal is Riverdale’s gorgeous Betty Cooper herself, Lili Reinhart. We have high hopes for this one, seeing as her social media presence is all about positivity and female empowerment, as well as Cole Sprouse, AKA Coal Sprouts, Jughead Jones.
Lili also begins her video by eating food on camera, it seems to be a common ‘relatability’ tactic. This time, it’s Chinese food. She has us hooked.
She also admits from the beginning that she already has foundation on, thank God. If that was her natural complexion I think I’d have had to tell her to stay in her lane.
Lili doesn’t mention the products which she uses, which we translate to mean that we probably cannot afford them…
She uses pink eyeshadow, lip gloss, a basic nude foundation and of course, concealer and highlighter. Voila, she’s ready for her close-up.
Relatability level: 3/5. She’s the winner so far, mainly due to her Chinese wontons. They just look so tasty.
4. Emily Ratajkowski.
Ah, the notorious sexy selfie queen.We have serious doubts about the relatability level of this gal, she’s got cheekbones for days and an enviable glowing tan.
Plus she could look sexy even if she went to Coppers until 6am the night before and had an absolute ‘mare when those jägerbombs came back to haunt her. The hardest look to pull off, arguably.
She comments that “I do my own make-up for red carpets a lot”. Same, tbh…
All this girl needs is Pat McGrath lipgloss, her blush which she confesses to be addicted to, and a bit of concealer. Wait… that’s it? That’s all it takes? Seriously?
We quit. We are the weakest link, goodbye.
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Relatability level: 0/5. Sorry Emily, but you took a duck-face selfie when you were done, and DIDN’T delete it or take a second take. That’s downright blasphemy in our books, we need at least 13 photos before we can find one we don’t hate.
5. Rihanna
Last, but not least, BAD GAL RIRI. An icon. A sass queen. Fenty Beauty extraordinaire, we have high hopes for this one.
From the beginning of the ten minute long gift, RiRi shows off her bubbly personality without plugging her own products at all, which is a miracle in itself.
If you haven’t tried using Fenty Beauty products, girl you are MISSING OUT. They’re flawless.
Some of Rihanna’s best quotes from this video include:
“Everyone knows concealer is made for hiding bags and dark circles, and hangovers and bad decisions.” YAS queen, she’s in the know. Riri gets the struggle.
“You’ve got to have powder for when you get greasy on the fly, honey.” Preach it.
“Pink eyeshadow says summer, sunset, love, drama, BITCHES.” We would pray to the church of Rihanna, honestly.
“The key to highlighter is not to be afraid, make-up is fun. It’s there to play with.” She hits the nail on the head, so many of us can find make-up intensely frustrating when we are expected to follow certain trends and look a certain way.
At the end of the day, beauty products should be used for our own enjoyment and empowerment, and if make-up doesn’t empower you, your natural beauty is all you need.
Riri claims that she learned how to contour when she gained weight and wanted to hide her ‘double chin’ and forehead, which was hugely surprising to us. Superstar celebrities have insecurities too, gals.
“The best teacher is yourself.” Say it louder for the people in the back, Rihanna. Everyone has their own unique look, individual face and preferred beauty regimens. You don’t have to look to famous people to understand your own complexion, all you need is you.
Riri relatability level: 4/5. Her personality is down-to-earth, her tips are one of a kind and her products are gold star standard.
We have to remind ourselves that these celebrities have picked up countless tips from the top make-up artists in the business, whereas we got free eyeshadows from magazines as 11-year-olds back when YouTube make-up tutorials didn’t exist (yes, there was a time, believe it or not) and gave ourselves pinkeye.
I lost count of how many allergic reactions I had to dodgy make-up after my 3827th eye infection from cheap “make-up”.
I wouldn’t even call it make-up honestly, I suspect that magazine eyeshadows were essentially homemade concoctions of flour and food dye.
Fast forward a few years, and YouTube beauty accounts have blown up across the internet, courtesy of teenagers who are DYING to know how to contour.
The word contour genuinely did not exist until recently in Ireland, we were simple folk back then.
There was eyeshadow (roughly 4 colours), orange foundation, mascara and lip gloss which was just Vaseline that had notions about itself.
In 2018, the cosmetic industry is bigger than ever, and is only beginning to include minorities in its world, thanks to brands such as Fenty Beauty creating more foundation shades.
It can be difficult to relate to any models in the beauty industry, no matter who they are. However you mould your own look in the mirror, imitate Rihanna and declare “I look cute!”
Always finish your look by feeling yo’self, it matters that you are feeling good, not just looking good.
The Victoria's Secret fashion show took place last weekend, and the controversy surrounding the event has been mounting ever since, despite the fact that it hasn't even been aired yet.
Ed Razek, chief marketing officer of L Brands (VS's parent company) threw caution (and tact) to the wind in his exclusive Vogueinterview about the fashion show, which first began in 1995.
The public were less than impressed, to say the least, about his statements regarding transgender models in his 'fantasy' show, as well as his attitude towards Rihanna's ground-breaking Savage x Fenty lingerie show.
Razek was quizzed about the lack of diversity in his own show, which features predominantly skinny, cisgender white models, and had more than a few things to say on the matter:
"Do I think about diversity? Yes. Does the brand think about diversity? Yes. Do we offer larger sizes? Yes….Shouldn’t you have transsexuals in the show? No. No, I don’t think we should. Well, why not? Because the show is a fantasy."
As you can imagine, this caused major drama, as it appears to imply that transgender models are not part of the 'fantasy' world of Victoria's Secret.
Razek later issued an apology regarding his comments about transgender models, which wasn't received well:
Please read this important message from Ed Razek, Chief Marketing Officer, L Brands (parent company of Victoria’s Secret). pic.twitter.com/CW8BztmOaM
His outspoken opinions on the 'fantasy' which excluded transgender models were not the only bone of contention. Razek also shared his own thoughts on Rihanna's phenomenally successful show:
"It’s a 42-minute entertainment special. That’s what it is. It is the only one of its kind in the world, and any other fashion brand in the world would take it in a minute, including the competitors that are carping at us."
"They carp at us because we’re the leader. …We’re their first love. And Victoria’s Secret has been women’s first love from the beginning."
"Everybody keeps talking about Rihanna’s show. If we had done Rihanna’s show, we would be accused of pandering without question."
Blogger and influencer Louise O'Reilly (@StyleMeCurvy) spoke out about the contentious chief marketing director in a tweet, which Bad Gal Riri LIKED. The shade.
Prime example of why brands need to be careful of casting directors opinions. Especially when it’s a 70 year old man who’s living in the past. Thank god @rihanna brought us @SavageXFenty this year with genuine attention & love of diversity in her branding https://t.co/pdCk2ueSGq
Her show featured a huge range of models ranging in size and ethnicity, as well as ability. Pregnant model and long-time Fenty ambassador Slick Woods walked the show while nine months pregnant.
Rihanna has yet to officially comment on the Victoria's Secret fashion show, but we highly doubt she'd be impressed by the now-infamous Vogue interview.
To think, it was only back in 2012 that Rihanna performed at the fashion show herself… how time flies.
2018 is a whole other fashion show ball game it seems.
Rihanna has reportedly turned down the opportunity to perform at the Superbowl Half-Time show to show her solidarity with former NFL star and 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick, US media reports.
She allegedly is in total disagreement with the NFL's methods, such as their stalled divisive policy regarding the national anthem.
Kaepernick gained infamy after choosing to kneel during the US national anthem last year, and became the first of numerous NFL stars to protest race inequality and police brutality in America, and is now thr face of Nike's controversial ad campaign.
He has not played in the NFL since early 2017 and is now embroiled in a lawsuit with the organisation- claiming team owners have shunned him for his activism. He has claimed that his political stances have resulted in his total ostracisation, despite race relations in the US currently being far from ideal.
The US media is claiming that pop superstar, fashion icon and general Badass Female Rihanna was the first choice for the half-time show, which the likes of Lady Gaga, Prince, Beyoncé and Michael Jackson have headlined.
"CBS and the NFL reached out to Rihanna first, who after thinking about the offer, decided to pass due to the NFL and the situation regarding players kneeling."
Judging by the reactions on Twitter, fans are standing by her side in her decision to protest the NFL’s methods, though many are divided in their opinions.
Rihanna refuses to perform at the Super Bowl in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick.
Her fans continue to stan, and appear to understand the global superstar's reasons.
Rihanna is just quietly going about her business of fixing the world, standing up for the causes she supports, and empowering girls to aim to be their best selves and I am here for it.
Maroon 5 have since been chosen as Plan B for the show, which takes place in Atlanta next year.
Cardi B is apparently the favourite to be their guest star, and there are also claims stating that Pink turned the chance down when talks dragged on for too long.
Rihanna’s new lingerie line Savage x Fenty is fierce AF.
Her collection is all about inclusivity and diversity, dressing all woman with different body shapes and sizes.
And nothing could have embodied this message more than the collection’s debut to the public.
The Diamonds singer chose a fierce, diverse group of models to represent her brand, including two pregnant women.
Rihanna closed out #NYFW with one of the best put together shows I’ve ever seen. It was truly out of the box … is there anything she can’t do #SavageXFentypic.twitter.com/8fxn4KKsAz
One of the mums, known as Slick Woods, was so far along that she went into labour after the fashion show’s debut, but not after she strut her stuff on stage.
The model truly looked savage in her strappy, Fenty lingerie that highlighted her beautiful baby bump.
Complete with knee-high, lace stockings, sparking high-heels and sexy, Madonna nipple cones, this hot mama killed it on the runway.
“Savage X means making your own rules and expressing your mood, character and style – for you, not for someone else,” Rihanna commented on her collection.
The gorgeous and ground-breaking businesswoman is making strides for women everywhere, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.
Now listen, I can't imagine anyone would ever need to be convinced to visit Barbados.
Stunning sandy beaches and the glistening ocean? I'm already convinced.
However, we actually didn't realise how much more this little island has to offer visitors.
So, if you are lucky enough to be heading to Rihanna's home country this summer, keep reading, as we've done up a list of some of the amazing things you should see and do.
1. Harrison’s Cave.
Get ready to delve underground, and follow the winding tunnels and caverns of Harrison’s Cave – one of the island’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Laden to the brim with bulbous stalagmites and stalactites (which we all remember from Junior Cert geography), the subterranean passages here hide echoing chambers like the 50-meter-high Great Hall and curious geological formations, like the so-called Altar, formed from millions of years of mineral deposits.
2. Huntes Gardens.
It's not all sand and sea in this gorgeous nation; Barbados has significant greenery to offer it's visitors.
Hunte's Gardens is a botanical garden and significant tourist attraction in the St Joseph Area of central Barbados. It was created from the 1950s by horticulturist Anthony Hunte in an unusual sink-hole-like gully.
3. Wander around Bridgetown.
The UNESCO-attested capital of Barbados is Bridgetown, and it is magnificent!
The city is packed with pretty little historic sites like the Chamberlain Bridge and the gorgeous neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings, built in the high style of Victorian England.
There are sun-splashed squares where little rum bars are busy with the chat of travellers and off-duty local fishermen alike. Perfection.
4. Oistins Fish Fry.
This lively event is considered to be a rite of passage for first-time visitors hitting the sandy shores of Barbados.
Kicking off every Friday and Saturday night on the streets between Welches Beach and Miami Beach on the south coast, the party is amazing craic.
There are sizzling BBQs cooking up some of the freshest swordfish, mahi mahi and lobster you have ever tasted, along with live bands spouting a medley of reggaeton and samba, steel drums and Bajan folk.
5. Hug the baobab of Queen’s Park.
The colossal trunk of Barbados’ largest tree can be found (and hugged, at least if there’s a group of you!) on the lawns of pretty little Queen’s Park in the heart of Bridgetown.
Considered by many to be the fattest tree in the entire Caribbean, it takes roughly 15 adults to stretch around the full circumference of the central trunk!
A small sign offers information on the age and heritage of the mighty tree, while the surrounding gardens of the park host a pretty Bandstand and the Queen’s Park art gallery.
6. The beaches
Okay, I know that this is kind of a given, but Barbados is home to some of the most majestic beaches in the world.
You don't just have to sit on the sand with a cocktail (although, that would be my plan), as there are so many amazing experiences you can do while at the beach.
Why not swim with sea turtles? Or go jet skiing? So many things to do.
7. St. Nicholas Abbey.
St Nicholas Abbey is located in Saint Peter, Barbados, a plantation house, museum and rum distillery. Colonel Benjamin Berringer built the house in 1658.
This house is one of only three genuine Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere.
Anyway, if you need me, I'll be living my best Island life.
This landmark event is all down to the magazines new editor-in-chief – the insanely talented Mr Edward Enninful.
As he explains in his Editor's letter, ''I always knew it had to be Rihanna.''
The cover and whole photo shoot are bursting with colour and vibrancy thanks to photographer Nick Knight, and we can't not mention the fab 1930's/1990's super-thin brows that Rihanna is rocking.
While we've burnt any photographic evidence that we ever had brows like that, she simply looks unreal.
In the mag, the 30-year-old gives advice on dating and dishes on being a diva and her link to the Royal family.
Edward gushed about his cover star, ''[she is] a fearless music-industry icon and businesswoman, when it comes to that potent mix of fashion and celebrity, nobody does it quite like her. No matter how haute the styling goes, or experimental the mood, you never lose her in the imagery. She is always Rihanna. There’s a lesson for us all in that. Whichever way you choose to dress the new season, take a leaf out of her book and be yourself.''
Vogue USA has also embraced diversity with the appointing of Beyonce as a guest editor.
It's about time! Thanks for picking #TylerMitchell – we can't wait for what is going to be a beautiful and important September issue! – Beyoncé has chosen Vogue’s first black cover photographer in its 126-year history. https://t.co/iZRk0wfyWq via @artsy#beyoncé#voguecover
According to RollingOut, Queen Bey ''will make history at the publication by insisting that Tyler Mitchell, 23, photograph her for the cover. It will be the first time that Vogue has hired a black photographer to shoot its cover during its 126-year history.''
Great news for the iconic magazine – let's hope other publications soon follow suit.
So grab your copy of the stunning September issue on August 3rd – we know we will be!
Your own romantic retreat in a lush tropical garden ten minutes east of Holetown. With secure off street parking and a private jungle pool complete with its own monkey troop!
Enjoy Caribbean Balcony living from a hammock in the breeze or on a lounger around the jungle pool! The cottage comfortably accommodates four in two private bedrooms upstairs and an open plan kitchen-living room downstairs. Explore the orchard and compete with the monkeys for the seasonal fruits!
This premium all-inclusive, all-suite enclave, features 161 contemporary suites on Barbados’ luminous South Coast. Turtle Beach appeals to families and couples. Within walking distance from The Gap and nightlife. The Resort has three restaurants, including Zagat rated Asiagos, two bars, two swimming pools, kids splash pool, plus Jacuzzi, tennis courts, complimentary non-motorised water sports, beach ambassador service, Flying Fish Kids Club, spa facilities, fitness centre and classes and complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms and throughout the property. Guests can enjoy signature dine around programme with 3 sister properties.
Located on the sought-after Platinum Coast, on a half mile long beach and 11 acres of lush tropical gardens, you’ll fill your sun-kissed days and starlit nights with unforgettable moments.
All 72 rooms and suites offer magnificent, unobstructed views of the beautiful Caribbean Sea, while three superbly decorated Villas offer ample spaces and mesmerizing ocean views. Several included services will make your stay even more memorable, including daily afternoon tea, WiFi, fitness room, tennis courts, a freshwater pool, non-motorized water sports, swim with the turtles activity, a weekly manager’s cocktail and garden tours.
A favourite destination for discerning travellers, Cobblers Cove is set within lush tropical gardens and each of the hotel’s spacious suites has a private balcony or terrace. Discover country-house elegance combined with authentic Caribbean character in this luxury hideaway that overlooks Barbados’s stunning west coast.
Days can be spent soaking up the sun or getting to know the real Barbados with the hotel’s superb organised tours, or for those feeling a little more energetic there’s a wealth of complimentary water sports on offer.
As a Relais & Châteaux hotel, dining at the award-winning Camelot Restaurant is an occasion to be savoured. Head Chef Jason Joseph excels with sensational creative menus.
For over a century, the historic Crane Resort has surveyed the famous pink sands and turquoise waters of Crane Beach from its dramatic cliff-top perch. A Barbadian legend since 1887, and the oldest operating hotel in the Caribbean, The Crane effortlessly marries the old-world charm of its past to all the 21st century amenities and services expected by today’s most discerning travellers.
From grand colonial styled suites and residences featuring lush gardens, private pools and rooftop terraces, to an impressive array of world-class amenities and services including fitness facilities, spectacular cascading pools, exciting restaurants and of course, the Zagat rated Zen, The Crane in an idyllic respite on the South East coast of Barbados.
Situated on the pristine South Coast of Barbados, Savannah Beach Hotel is a four star beach resort that easily ranks as one of the most idyllic destinations on the island. This restored 19th century Plantation House once predominantly featured brick construction and elegant cast-iron balconies. Great Britain’s colonial architecture was rampant in Barbados from as early as the 17th century so it’s easy to understand why this hotel is so roped into the anatomy of its environs.
Forget everything you’ve ever known or experienced about all-inclusive hotels… Savannah is distinctly different. It is an all-inclusive hotel with style! Dive in… Savannah is an excellent choice for a relaxed Caribbean holiday. It is a Caribbean paradise that simply must be experienced!
Sweetfield Manor was once a cozy plantation house from days gone by. Now it’s a unique boutique hotel offering exclusive comfort in a relaxing atmosphere. A luxury five star, intimate 10-room hotel. The Manor was built in the early 1900’s, and has maintained its treasured original qualities.
The hotel is centrally located, perfectly situated within lush tropical surroundings, atop a hill which affords spectacular views over the south coast of Barbados. It is only minutes from the heart of the exciting south coast, beaches, restaurants, shopping and entertainment.
This very private, recently renovated, 2 storey, beach front villa includes a large ocean front terrace with pool and private steps down to an idyllic beach.
It is located close to the Lone Star Restaurant and is within a few minutes of all other amenities. This is an exceptional holiday home benefiting from a successful rental history.
There is access down to a small tidal beach with lovely snorkelling and swimming. Three lovely en-suite bedrooms are located on the first floor, while the ground floor comprises of the living area, kitchen and exceptional sun terrace with plunge pool.
Recently renovated, award-winning, family-owned hotel located directly on a large, beautiful beach in the heart of the South Coast. Located in the historic UNESCO World Heritage district within easy walking distance to historic sites, shops and restaurants.
Full self-catering apartments also available for families and long stay visitors. Complimentary roundtrip airport transfers provided for all guests. Hotel facilities include two full service restaurants and bars, one beach bar, swimming pool, cold water Jacuzzi, 24-hour front desk and security services, activities desk, gift shop and complimentary hospitality suite.
Coconut Court is a charming hotel that offers great value and warm, genuine service making it a perfect holiday choice for the young at heart!
A Tropical haven where turquoise sea, edges the vast sweep of pristine white sand of worthing beach. This comfortable and restful hotel boasts 32 newly built rooms exquisitely furnished with Studios, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bedroom and 1 Bedroom suites.
All with kitchenette, air-condition, private bath and balconies, over looking the Caribbean Sea, with a restaurant, fitness centre and novelty shop combined with warm hospitality and lively water sports which all adds to the charm of the hotel.
Men can be great, fab even – but sometimes we just get plain tired of some of their company.
It seems that even icons like Rihanna are not immune to masculine fatigue, as a source told MediaTakeOut News that the singer dumped her billionaire boyfriend Hassan Jameel for that very reason.
The source told the magazine that Riri is allegedly single again:
Last night, the famous Met Gala took place in New York City.
The 70th annual Ball was themed Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination.
As you can only imagine, the style on display at this year's event was amazing (and sometimes a little outrageous!)
From insane baroque numbers, to actual angel wings, the celebrity guests went all out.
Check out some of our favourite looks:
Queen SJP went all out with a major Dolce& Gabbana number, which included a cathedral train embroidered with gold baroque embellishments and sacred hearts. NAILED that theme hun.
Gucci gang, Gucci gang, Gucci gang! The flawlessly talented Fashion director of Gucci, ALessandro Michele, dressed Lana Del Ray and Jared Leto this year. Thank God.
Kate Bosworth – we are not worthy. The blonde bombshell rocked up to the event donning an Oscar de la Renta number with a teardrop mother-of-pearl headpiece.
Honourary co-chair of this year's Gala was the UNBELIEVABLE Rihanna. She rocked up to her event, looking like the chicest Pope you've ever seen, thanks to Maison Margiela.
