Rihanna set the new standard for inclusive fashion shows last year, when her Savage X Fenty show was lauded for its casting of plus-size and transgender models, drag queens, and queer performers. Last night’s launch of her Savage X Fenty Vol. 2 special on Amazon Prime Video showed that this year was no different in terms of the brand’s commitment to showing that anyone — no matter what race, age, size, sexuality, or gender identity — is worthy of being confident on the runway.
The stunning and unconventional presentation featured performances from musicians like Bad Bunny and Rico Nasty, an extended dance sequence from Lizzo in an electric blue fishnet suit, elaborate sequences choreographed by dancer extraordinaire Parris Goebel, and Rihanna herself emerging from a giant flower blossom. But the wide array of the LGBTQ+ talent throughout the presentation really proved that there is no Savage X Fenty show without some queer hotties.
Drag stars Shea Couleé, Gigi Goode, and Jaida Essence Hall strutted as if they were on the main stage of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Nonbinary models like Memphis Murphy, Indya Moore, and Jazzelle Zahaughtti walked alongside bisexual supermodel Cara Delevingne. Gay performers like Jaxon Willard, Dexter Mayfield, and Darrion Gallegos wore heels to dance backup for Rosalía.
Elsewhere, queer makeup artist Raisa Flowers stunned in a strappy teddy and edgy mullet. And of course, since the event was a musical showcase as much as a fashion show, Rihanna recruited queer musicians like Willow, 070 Shake, and Chika, and some of them modeled items from Savage X Fenty’s new “men’s” line.
Interstitial interviews featuring Rihanna and the cast provided more in-depth exploration of the ideas behind the Savage X Fenty brand. In one section, Rih touched on how she’s influenced by drag artists. “It really is inspiring to me how you can use colors, paint, makeup, textures, just to embody whatever you want to,” she said. In another section about sexuality, which Rihanna called “something that has to be owned or earned,” Gigi Goode opened up about being a virgin. “I mean, I like fooling around, but it just hasn’t happened,” she said.
Check out the brilliant LGBTQ+ stars of Savage x Fenty Vol. 2 below.
