Everyone was waiting for Rihanna’s arrival at the Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin Launch Party in Barbados on Thursday.
Dressed in a chocolate ruched dress with her hair styled big and curly, she entered the exclusive event at QP Bistro with her signature confident stride, pausing to shout out people along the way. In a now-viral clip, she’s seen dancing with some of the restaurant’s staff, adding to the excitement of an already celebratory atmosphere.
The impromptu speech that followed reminded everyone that Rihanna is not only a global icon but also a Barbadian National Hero, cultural ambassador, recording artist, and billionaire business mogul. The Right Excellent Robyn Rihanna
Fenty delivered her address with genuine appreciation, thanking her family, friends, and all Barbadians for inspiring Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin.
“I cannot express to you guys what this day means for me,” she shared to enthusiastic cheers. “To be able to celebrate with the peoplethat deserve it the most—the community that has always propelled me to the next place and given me strength and grace. You guys have always inspired me.”
Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin launched on October 24 at select retailers across nine Caribbean territories, including Antigua, Aruba, The Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, Sint Maarten, and, of course, Barbados. This expansion brings the globally acclaimed brand closer to Caribbean audiences, reinforcing Fenty’s commitment to authenticity and cultural representation.
The Barbados launch party attracted notable guests, including Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams, former Senator Dr Kristina Hinds, as well as business leaders, entertainers, and content creators.
Guests enjoyed a luxurious assortment – with, of course, an onsite Bajan snow cone mixologist – mingled on the black carpet, and embraced the “dress to impress and de-stress” theme in well-tailored suits, gowns, and bespoke fashion.
The event also featured a beauty station showcasing local makeup artists like Daniella Knight – Fenty Beauty makeup artist -, who stayed busy doing foundation matches and touch-ups throughout the night, creating a buzz among guests eager for personalised sessions.
Since the announcement that Fenty Beauty would be available in Barbados, enthusiasm has been high. Social media was abuzz with influencers documenting stocked shelves and masterclasses led by Fenty Global makeup artist Priscilla Ono.
“Priscilla was extremely knowledgeable about her craft and you could feel the passion she has for makeup artistry, Fenty Beauty and Rihanna throughout her entire two-hour tutorial. What I found especially great was that make-up beginners, enthusiasts (like myself) and professionals took away valuable info,”Victoria Bristol shared.
Will this move open doors for further representation and opportunities, or is it another smart business decision? There’s a hopeful sense that Fenty’s presence could inspire new collaborations and pathways for local talent and industry.
corettajoe@barbadostoday.bb
