Rihanna - Fenty Beauty

In 2017, Rihanna unveiled Fenty Beauty, a cosmetics venture co-owned with the French luxury giant LVMH. By 2020, Fenty Beauty, as reported by Forbes, raked in a staggering $550 million in revenue. The latest LVMH earnings report reveals that in 2022, Fenty Beauty doubled its revenue, credited to an expanded distribution network and successful product launches. Rihanna's vision for Fenty Beauty was inclusivity, offering a vast array of shades catering to all skin tones. Many of the brand's products have gained a devoted following, going viral on platforms like TikTok. Notably, Rihanna's inaugural Fenty fragrance sold out within hours of its August 2021 launch, marking another triumph for the global icon.

Valued at $1.4 billion, and the youngest woman to ever achieve billionaire status, the 36-year-old's business empire stands as a testament to her remarkable achievements. Here are five inspiring insights into how Rihanna built her empire—lessons that can be applied to your own journey of business growth.

1. Inclusive Brands: Fenty Skin's gender-inclusive skincare and Savage X Fenty's diverse lingerie line showcase Rihanna's commitment to beauty, inclusivity, and empowerment. The philosophy extends across various body types, sexual orientations, and abilities.

   
   

2. Hands-On Approach: Unlike many celebrities, Rihanna actively participates in every project detail. Her involvement spans from Super Bowl performances to makeup products and lingerie lines. This hands-on approach ensures her vision is embedded in every aspect.

   
   

3. Diversification of Ventures: Rihanna's wealth extends beyond music and touring. The strategic acquisition of her music masters, appearances in movies, and successful business launches like Fenty Beauty, Savage X Fenty, and Fenty Skin contribute to her billion-dollar status.

   
   

4. Strategic Collaborations: While recognised as a self-made billionaire, Rihanna acknowledges the power of collaboration. Partnerships with LVMH for Fenty Beauty, early investments in streaming service Tidal, and ongoing collaborations for Savage X Fenty demonstrate the value of working with others.

   
   

5. Delivering Remarkable Experiences: Rihanna prioritises memorable experiences, from pre-Super Bowl pop-up shops to halftime product placements and televised fashion shows. Engaging authentically with fans through social media, influencers, and interactive campaigns contributes to the success of her brands.

   
   

These principles, gleaned from Rihanna's journey, offer universal insights for women aspiring to build their own successful businesses and brands.