It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s—Rihanna floating in the sky! The superstar began her Super Bowl LVII halftime performance in Arizona tonight by suspending herself (and her backup dancers) in the air on floating platforms to sing “Bitch Better Have My Money.” It was a dramatic start for her first live performance in five years. And Bad Gal Riri certainly did not disappoint with her vocals and fashions this evening. She broke the Internet when she debuted and rubbed her baby bump, announcing to the world that she’s now expecting her second child with A$AP Rocky, who cheered her on from the sidelines. (The couple welcomed a baby boy back in March last year.)
Styled by Jahleel Weaver—who’s responsible for many of the star’s memorable red carpet looks—Rihanna’s red Super Bowl outfit included a Loewe jumpsuit with a molded breast bustier, as well as a bold red leather maxi puffy coat by Alaïa, designed custom for her by Pieter Mulier. Fashion fans online are discussing how similar the statement outerwear is to one that was worn by the late fashion editor and style icon André Leon Talley, though it’s unclear if it’s a direct nod to him or not.
The ALT page said Rihanna’s look was a tribute to the iconic Andre Leon Talley and his red Norma Kamali sleeping bag coat. They were very close. He said her MET GALA moment with the canary yellow Guo Pei couture gown was his proudest moment. Now I’m in tears. ❤️ 😭 pic.twitter.com/CJNx76E4ST
— Eric Darnell Pritchard (@EricDarnell) February 13, 2023
It doesn’t take a genius to think about why Rihanna gravitated towards an all-red ensemble for such a major performance. Among other things, the hue can represent courage, love, and energy. Not to mention, it simply commands attention.
Rihanna’s announcement also heralds the return of her epic maternity style. (Remember when she announced she was pregnant with her first child in a rare Chanel coat?). She clearly thought about comfort this evening (a maternity must), right down to her MM6 Maison Margiela x Salomon high-top sneakers. We can’t wait to see how she subverts mom-to-be style yet again. She’s challenged the rules once and inspired expecting moms everywhere to push the boundaries—we’re ready for round two!
I learned so much at Christie’s Andre Leon Tally estate auction preview about keeping that tax man from coming for your estate.
— eatwords drinkstars (@akamami) February 13, 2023
His iconic Norma Kamali sleep bag coat that Rihanna just paid tribute to him in her Super Bowl performance was appraised at $500-$800.🧐 https://t.co/53uM9xuVfp pic.twitter.com/jN7fnvDeFW
This article was originally published on Vogue US.
