It might sound like a fashion magazine cliché but this month, we are dedicating the issue to strong and dynamic women who are changing the world. Rihanna, our cover star, is one of them. Not only is she one of the most successful pop icons ever, shaping the entertainment industry with her powerful tunes and unique sense of style, she is also an advocate for diversity.
Rihanna wears an Isabel Marant coat and dress, and a Rihanna Loves Chopard choker. Photographed by Greg Kadel and styled by Anya Ziourova for Vogue Arabia, November 2017
When Rihanna recently launched her new makeup line, Fenty Beauty, I was happy to see that music’s bad gal was all about promoting multiple types of beauty, including Vogue cover star Halima Aden and model Duckie. She also featured Kuwaiti influencer Dalal AlDoub on her social Instagram.
Besides being honored to photograph Rihanna, I also found the process of preparing this cover shoot fun. How could we portray in a fresh way one of the most photographed women in the world? Celebrity stylist Anya Ziourova had the answer, and during one of our many Skype meetings, she revealed that the pop star has a real adoration for Queen Nefertiti, and has a tattoo of her iconic bust. And could we perhaps haveon set Damien Hirst’s sculpture, where the art world’s enfant terrible depicted Egypt’s ancient monarch using as inspiration Rihanna’s mignon features? Perfection! With a crown specially designed by Faeth Millinery, Rihanna pays homage to this unforgettable queen, who still reigns as one of Ancient Egypt’s most celebrated figures.
Courtesy of the Louvre Abu Dhabi
After much speculation, the Louvre Abu Dhabi finally opens its doors this month, under the leadership of Hissa Al Dhaheri, the young and talented Emirati serving as deputy director. Photographed beneath the marvelous signature dome designed by star architect Jean Nouvel, this incredible woman shared her story, and spoke of this much-needed institution that will revolutionize culture in the Arab world.
Photographed by Mariah Jelena for Vogue Arabia, November 2017
Last but not least, in a month when the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Diala Makki and Salma Ismail share their powerful testimonies and insights into their respective fights for this cause. I would like to personally thank Afra Al Basti, director general of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, who generously received Vogue Arabia at the organization’s headquarters to also talk about the important work being done in this area, such as offering shelter to victims and protection to children.
The November issue is out now. Subscribe here.
