BEAUTY CHAMELEON: RIHANNA'S ICONIC LOOKS THROUGH THE YEARS

May 3, 2023

Rihanna has become a true beauty icon. Since the release of her debut single, “Pon di Replay”, in 2005, this beauty/fashion icon has experimented with a variety of makeup looks, from soft and natural to bold and dramatic. Throughout her career, Rihanna’s ever-evolving beauty style has made waves in the industry, inspiring countless fans and even leading to the creation of her successful makeup line, Fenty Beauty.

In this article, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to explore the variety of makeup looks Rihanna has rocked over the years. From glittery eyeshadow to bold red lips, we’re highlighting some of her most memorable beauty moments. So, grab your makeup bag and get ready to take some notes, because these Rihanna inspired looks are sure to stop traffic.

Beginning with the “Pon di Replay” era, our Bajan queen introduced herself on the scene wearing natural makeup looks that highlighted her natural beauty. Known for her sun-kissed and flawless skin, just a little lip gloss, mascara, and liner is how this beauty queen started in the culture. However, she quickly gained more confidence as she experimented with more bold looks.

In her “Umbrella” era, Rihanna, was known for her edgy, punk-inspired makeup looks. She often wore dark, smoky eye makeup and bold black eyeliner, which helped to create her signature tough-girl image.

In the “Loud” Era, we watched the star experiment with brighter, more colorful makeup looks. She often wore bold eyeshadow shades and bright lipsticks, like electric blues and vibrant pinks. An iconic look that marks this timepiece is her electric smoky green eyeshadow and bold black liner look that she wore to the 2010 American Music Awards.

In the “We Found Love” Era, Rihanna’s makeup looks became more polished and refined. She often sported a winged eyeliner and bold red lipstick which helped create a classic, old Hollywood glamour vibe.

In her “Fenty Beauty” Era, Rihanna launched her world renown beauty brand: Fenty Beauty. Being her own brands’ top ambassador, Rihanna became known for her “no-makeup makeup” look. This look emphasizes natural, glowing skin, and minimal eye makeup which has become a popular trend in the beauty industry.

In the “Savage x Fenty Show” Era, Rihanna experimented with more avant-garde makeup looks for her Savage x Fenty fashion shows. She has worn bold graphic eyeliner, colorful eyeshadow, and even glitter tears, which has inspired many makeup artists and fans to try out more daring, edgy looks.

In her “Mama Fenty” era, Rihanna has been her most confident yet. Showing us how much she's grown and become more comfortable in her skin, Rihanna has stuck true to her roots. Sharing with us her vibes, moods, vision and essence through her makeup has not grown dull and we look forward to seeing new looks every time. What will she do next? When's the next Fenty photo op? All we know is whatever it is, Rihanna will remain a woman for the people and will continue to demonstrate confidence, sexiness, classiness and power.