Discussing the significance of braids as a means of self-expression and their importance to various ethnic groups, the “Needed Me” singer explained, “This is a form of protection of our roots and a tradition left by our ancestors… [It] makes us realize where we’ve come from. This is our lost history. I immediately wanted my children to have their hair braided… It’s something in our blood.”

Notably, Rihanna’s makeup looks for Vogue China were created using all Fenty Beauty products. Makeup artist Priscilla Ono used the brand’s Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, We’re Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer, and Match Stix Contour Skinstick, among other bestsellers.

Fenty Beauty’s foray into the China market will follow the label’s launch in India through Nykaa earlier this month. Its debut coincided with Rihanna’s performance at the pre-wedding party of Anant Ambani — the youngest son of multi-billionaire Mukesh Ambani — and Radhika Merchant, one of the country’s wealthiest couples.

On the music side, it’s been over eight years since Rihanna released ANTI. Despite the extensive hiatus, anticipation for her next album hasn’t diminished a bit. In February, ASAP Rocky gave fans an update on the LP’s status: “She’s working on it.”