Following a shoot with the photographer Jean-Baptiste Mondino, Rihanna dishes about her first collaboration with the house of Dior, providing an opportunity to find out about the design process for the singer’s new sunglasses.
DiorMag: Is it the first time you work with Jean-Baptiste Mondino ?
Rihanna: Yes, but he has been on the bucket list for a while.
DM: What do you like the most about his way of taking photographs?
R: He’s fast, and gives incredibly precise direction.
DM: What is the atmosphere on set?
R: He plays the BEST music on set, tons of old school R&B. Not once did I have to change the music.
DM: Could you share an anecdote about this shooting?
R: This shoot was done under unique circumstances. I came straight from a show, spent a lot of time getting my weave taken out, but once we got to set no time was wasted. He knows exactly what he wants, and does not hold back his personality….which was delightful.
WATCH THE VIDEO FROM THE SET
DM: What is your personal relationship with the House’s creations?
R: It doesn’t get more personal than designing for this house. It’s an honor, and I STILL can’t believe that I’ve been given this opportunity.
DM: Could you describe your news sunglasses?
R: They’re futuristic, yet sporty at the same time.
DM: Can you tell us about your inspiration?
R: Believe it or not, La Forge from “Star Trek” back in the day! I’ve always been obsessed with his eyewear, and when I got to Dior and saw all the materials I could play with, it all just came together.
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DM: What was the creation process with the Dior teams?
R: The process was pretty seamless. I spent a day at Dior with their eyewear design team. Started by looking through all the archives to see what they’ve done in the past, then got acquainted with all the new materials! I literally sat there drew, and drew until I was happy with the design, and the team illustrated it for me right then and there. We picked materials and colors that same day, and after that it was a matter of weeks before I saw the first prototype.
DM: According to you, what is the best occasion to wear them?
R: All Summer Long, but definitely whenever you want.
DM: What could you hide behind your sunglasses?
R: What you’re thinking!… before it comes out of your mouth. Ha!