Rihanna’s London Fashion Week Debut Will Face Tough Critics

Rihanna’s first collection for River Island will debut next month at London Fashion Week, the brand announced today (Jan. 22). It’s the pop singer’s first foray into fashion with her own line and she’ll face some tough critics.

After the debut, the close will go on sale Mar. 5 in River Island stores and online at riverisland.com.

In the United States, the clothes will go on sale exclusively at Opening Ceremony stores.

The line will hit the runways on Sat., Feb. 16. London Fashion Week draws intense scrutiny from the city’s tabloid press.

The family-owned British brand has been actively promoting its clothes using pop stars.

Perrie Edwards from Little Mix has been spotted wearing a grey cross print jersey midi dress and a cropped version of the popular Mon Cheri print t-shirt.

One Direction star Zayn Malik stepping out in a River Island waxed hooded jacket. From the Holloway Road line, the jacket features heritage influences that have been a key trend this season, the company said.

But Rihanna, 24, is the first pop star to craft her own line for River Island. “Launching at London Fashion Week is a dream come true for me, the singer said in a statement.

“I have wanted to design my own collection for a long time and to present my collection for River Island alongside all of the other great design talent at LFW is a real privilege,” she added.

“I can’t wait to see the reaction from my fans and the fashion press!”