Having successfully conquered the music world, Rihanna set her sights on the fashion industry - and on Monday the fruits of her efforts were unveiled. The star, 25, made a flawless appearance to officially launch her River Island collection in London's Oxford Street. The Umbrella singer stepped out showcasing one of her own designs, a floor-length black gown that featured a high split and a cutaway back, as she held a special shopping evening, which included a mini catwalk show shown live on plasma screens in the shop's front window.
The fashion range has been widely praised by style watchers after its successful debut at London Fashion Week last month, and 70 lucky competition winners got the chance to shop ahead of the pack when they were invited to Monday's event.Hundreds more fans queued round the block to catch a glimpse of the singer, who is days away from the first date of her Diamonds tour.It comes as little surprise that Rihanna collaborated with the UK retailer for her collection - she has long been a fan of British style. "Britain has the most fashionable kids in the world," she said recently. "These kids inspired the high-end designers, they say what's cool. "But the Barbadian turned to her own wardrobe when seeking inspiration. "I designed every single piece in the collection so I could wear it," she told Grazia. "I think my fans trust my style so they'll have fun with it".
A quick change later, this time into a pair of her striking double denim jeans and a white crop top, and Rihanna was ready to celebrate at an afterparty in the capital. Making a surprise appearance there was Will Smith, whose son Jaden is in London supporting Justin Bieber in concert.Reality stars Lydia Bright and Cheska Hull were also there, alongside X Factor's Jahmene Douglas and Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall.