Rihanna’s Sense of Fashion is Always Based on Her Mood

Published: February 24, 2025 Last Updated 2 years ago by Esther Ejoh

Rihanna has never been one to play by the rules, especially when it comes to fashion. She doesn’t just wear clothes; she makes statements.

Over the years, she has consistently pushed boundaries, turning heads with bold, unexpected choices. From the sheer, crystal-embellished gown she wore to the CFDA Awards to rocking oversized, gender-fluid suits, she has always dressed for herself, not for approval. Her fearless approach to style is what sets her apart as a true fashion icon.

Even during pregnancy, Rihanna refused to conform to traditional maternity fashion. While many public figures opt for loose-fitting dresses or flowy outfits, she did the opposite, embracing crop tops, sheer fabrics, and bold silhouettes that proudly showcased her growing belly.

Through both of her pregnancies, the entrepreneur reshaped the way people view maternity fashion, and after welcoming her children, she returned to setting trends. She’s made sports jerseys look glamorous, brought back fur, and consistently set the standard for owning your style with confidence.

Now, Rihanna’s relationship with fashion is evolving once again. In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar, she shared that she’s rediscovering the joy in dressing up. “Now I’m starting to just remember what I loved about it: the juxtaposition, putting the things together that don’t make sense,” she explained. “My fashion has always been driven by my mood, and my mood was on mom mode for a minute.”

She admitted that getting dressed now feels different—more practical, more intentional. “Everything is so logical—what makes sense? What’s easy? What’s fast?” she said. “Fashion is so much fun, and I miss the fun.” 

For the Magazine’s March cover, the trendsetter wears a variety of striking outfits, each with its own unique appeal.

Riri starts with a structured corset, paired with sheer, sequined shorts. Next, she appears in a black cut-out swimsuit, paired with a flowing black veil, creating a dramatic look.

Another outfit features a strapless tube dress with ruffles, bringing a classic yet stylish feel. She also wears a floor-length, sheer backless gown, adding a touch of refinement and modern edge.

Rihanna’s hair is styled in soft, tousled curls in some shots, while in others, it is pulled back neatly, highlighting different aspects of her look while her makeup remains simple and nude-toned, keeping the focus on her natural features.

As a mother of two, she’s rediscovering that joy, embracing unexpected pairings and letting her mood once again shape her style. While Bad Gal Riri once thrived on making dramatic fashion statements, she now enjoys a more laid-back lifestyle—dining out, shopping, and moving through the world without the need for over-the-top red carpet moments. But that doesn’t mean her love for fashion has faded. If anything, it has evolved.

These days, she gravitates toward cool, laid-back looks—oversized suits, baggy pants, and sneakers—but she still knows how to make a statement when she wants to. Whether it’s an unexpected pop of color, a daring accessory, or a perfectly curated casual outfit, she continues to influence fashion trends without even trying.

Her impact goes beyond her own wardrobe. Designers like Jawara Alleyne, known for his bold, deconstructed pieces, have found a champion in her. “She can turn anything she wears into a statement,” he says. “People see her in my designs and immediately understand the creativity behind them. She embodies confidence, creativity, and authenticity.”

At the heart of Rihanna’s fashion journey is one undeniable truth—style isn’t about following rules, it’s about staying true to yourself. Whether she’s dominating the red carpet, running a billion-dollar empire, or embracing motherhood, she wears her identity with pride. And that’s exactly what makes her a true style icon.

Photo: Luis Alberto Rodriguez