Rihanna Makes History: The Iconic Durag Cover and Fashion-Forward Style for British Vogue
Rihanna, the multifaceted global icon, once again solidified her status as a cultural trailblazer by gracing the May issue of British Vogue. At 32 years old at the time of publication, her appearance on the prestigious cover was not just another fashion moment, but a truly historic one. She became the very first person in the magazine’s illustrious history to wear a durag on its cover, shattering long-standing conventions and celebrating Black culture in an unprecedented way within the realm of high fashion. Her exquisite looks across two distinct covers, coupled with a captivating editorial spread, immediately captivated audiences worldwide, demonstrating her unparalleled ability to merge high-end glamour with profound cultural statements.
This groundbreaking moment transcends mere fashion; it’s a powerful statement about representation, cultural pride, and challenging the traditional aesthetics promoted by mainstream media. The durag, an item deeply embedded in Black hair care practices and cultural identity, has historically been overlooked or even stigmatized in elite fashion circles. Rihanna, with her characteristic boldness and undeniable influence, brought it front and center, transforming it into an emblem of high fashion and cultural recognition on one of the world’s most influential magazines. Her decision to showcase the durag was not only aesthetically stunning but also politically and culturally significant, marking a pivotal shift in how diverse aesthetics are perceived and celebrated within the fashion industry.
Beyond the durag, Rihanna’s editorial spread for British Vogue offered a collection of striking images that highlighted her incredible versatility and fashion prowess. In one particularly memorable shot, she paid homage to pop culture legend Princess Leia from the iconic Star Wars saga, sporting two dramatic side buns. This playful yet powerful nod to a beloved character further demonstrated Rihanna’s ability to seamlessly blend different cultural touchstones, proving that fashion can be both elegant and deeply personal. The entire shoot, masterfully captured by photographer Steven Klein, presented Rihanna in a new light, oscillating between raw authenticity and futuristic glamour, all while maintaining her signature edge.
For her primary cover, Rihanna exuded an understated elegance in a sleek black durag. Tied meticulously around her head, one side gracefully draped down, framing her face with a subtle allure. This particular styling choice emphasized the durag’s inherent beauty and sophisticated lines, proving its potential as a chic accessory. Her accompanying glam was kept deliberately minimal, a choice that allowed her natural beauty and the durag itself to take center stage. Opting for little makeup beyond a precise application of eyeliner and a rich, glossy brown lip, Rihanna projected an air of confident ease and natural radiance. This cover became an instant classic, lauded for its simplicity, power, and groundbreaking cultural significance.
The decision to present Rihanna with such a natural aesthetic for this historic cover was a deliberate one, underscoring the authenticity and realness that Rihanna consistently brings to her public persona. It served to normalize an everyday item for many Black individuals, elevating it without altering its fundamental form or meaning. The glossy brown lip added a touch of warmth and sophistication, perfectly complementing her skin tone and the deep black of the durag. It was a masterclass in how subtle beauty choices can enhance a powerful fashion statement, reinforcing the idea that true style comes from confidence and cultural pride.
Her second captivating cover for the May issue presented a more avant-garde and daring interpretation of the durag. This time, Rihanna adorned the durag with an even bolder artistic flourish. Her eyes and the entire upper part of her face were dramatically “tattooed” with the word “truth” emblazoned across her head, creating a striking and thought-provoking visual. This powerful artistic element transformed her face into a canvas, conveying a message of authenticity and self-expression that resonated deeply with her public image. The artistic decision to incorporate text directly onto her face amplified the cover’s message, suggesting a deeper narrative beyond just fashion.
To complete this edgy and luxurious ensemble, Rihanna accessorized with a lavish stack of chunky gold layered necklaces. These opulent pieces contrasted beautifully with the simplicity of the durag and the boldness of the facial art, adding a touch of grandeur and rebelliousness. Underneath, she sported a delicate lace black bra, which peeked out, adding a hint of sensuality and femininity to the otherwise strong and assertive look. This second cover cemented Rihanna’s reputation as a fearless fashion chameleon, capable of embodying diverse styles and pushing boundaries while always remaining authentically herself. It highlighted her ability to blend street style, high fashion, and personal narrative into a cohesive and unforgettable visual statement.
While both covers were undeniably iconic, one particular photograph from the inside spread stood out for its unique blend of high fashion, architectural silhouette, and playful pop culture reference. This image, which quickly became a fan favorite, showcased Rihanna in an impeccably tailored, oversized navy blue suit. The suit featured a distinctive cropped double-breasted blazer with dramatically exaggerated shoulders, lending an almost sculptural quality to her silhouette. This structured blazer was layered over an equally oversized peacoat, creating a voluminous and commanding presence that spoke volumes about power dressing and modern femininity.
However, the true showstopper of this particular ensemble was her hairstyle. Rihanna’s hair was expertly parted in the middle, culminating in two massive, perfectly sculpted buns positioned on either side of her face, strategically covering her ears. These buns were not just any ordinary style; they were meticulously crafted to resemble circular pom-poms, adding a whimsical and artistic flair to the sophisticated suit. This hairstyle was a clear and brilliant homage to the legendary Princess Leia Organa, famously portrayed by Carrie Fisher in the Star Wars saga, who sported similar iconic side buns. This unexpected yet brilliant fusion of intergalactic heroism and contemporary high fashion demonstrated Rihanna’s incredible capacity for storytelling through style. We, and indeed the entire fashion world, were absolutely captivated by this imaginative and unforgettable look.
This particular image wasn’t just about fashion; it was a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and creative vision. The juxtaposition of the serious, oversized suit with the playful, recognizable hairstyle created a narrative that was both sophisticated and approachable. It showed that fashion can be both a form of high art and a nod to beloved cultural touchstones, breaking down barriers between different worlds. The deliberate choice to cover her ears with the buns also added an intriguing element, drawing focus to her face and the overall architectural quality of the hairstyle.
Rihanna’s consistent ability to surprise and inspire her audience is a cornerstone of her enduring appeal. From her groundbreaking music career to her revolutionary ventures in beauty with Fenty Beauty and lingerie with Savage X Fenty, she has continuously redefined what it means to be a global superstar in the 21st century. Her entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with her fearless approach to fashion and identity, has positioned her as not just a celebrity, but a powerful cultural force. This particular British Vogue issue served as yet another powerful reminder of her influence, making fans and critics alike admire her even more profoundly.
The significance of her British Vogue cover extends far beyond the pages of the magazine itself. It sent ripples throughout the fashion industry and wider society, sparking important conversations about diversity, cultural appropriation versus appreciation, and the evolving standards of beauty. Under the visionary leadership of editor-in-chief Edward Enninful, British Vogue has been at the forefront of championing inclusivity and celebrating diverse voices. Rihanna’s durag cover perfectly encapsulated this progressive ethos, solidifying the magazine’s commitment to reflecting a more accurate and representative view of the world.
Her impact is not just about aesthetics; it’s about empowerment. By confidently sporting a durag on such a prominent platform, Rihanna validated an item often associated with specific communities, bringing it into the mainstream without stripping it of its cultural meaning. This act of visibility is crucial for marginalized communities, offering a sense of pride and recognition. It tells a story that fashion is not just about expensive clothing, but about identity, heritage, and the courage to express who you are.
The entire editorial spread was a masterclass in visual storytelling, each image carefully constructed to convey a different facet of Rihanna’s persona and artistic vision. Steven Klein’s photography captured her essence with a raw, almost cinematic quality, making each shot feel like a carefully composed work of art. The play of light and shadow, the intricate details of her styling, and Rihanna’s powerful gaze all contributed to a collection of images that will undoubtedly be studied and admired for years to come.
When it comes to Rihanna, the star consistently defies expectations, continuously surprising and amazing us with her artistic endeavors, business acumen, and unwavering commitment to challenging norms. This particular magazine issue, with its bold fashion statements and profound cultural implications, only served to deepen our admiration for her. It stands as a testament to her unique power to innovate and influence across various industries. Her May 2020 British Vogue cover is more than just a fashion spread; it’s a significant cultural artifact, solidifying her place as an undisputed icon of our time and an enduring symbol of progress and self-expression.
The May issue of British Vogue, featuring these incredible photographs and an insightful interview with Rihanna, offered readers an intimate look into the life and mind of this extraordinary artist. It allowed fans to delve deeper into her thoughts on music, fashion, and her entrepreneurial journey, providing context to the visual spectacle presented on its pages. This issue was made available to the public via free digital download, ensuring its accessibility, and also hit newsstands on Friday, April 3rd, allowing both digital and print enthusiasts to experience this historic moment.
In essence, Rihanna’s British Vogue cover story is a vivid illustration of her lasting legacy: a boundary-pushing artist who uses her platform not just for entertainment, but for meaningful cultural advancement. She reminds us that true influence comes from authenticity, courage, and the willingness to lead by example, continually inspiring millions to embrace their true selves and celebrate their heritage. Her style isn’t merely about what she wears; it’s about the powerful messages she conveys through her choices, making every appearance a lesson in breaking barriers and setting new standards.