Music icon, entrepreneur, cultural pioneer and philanthropist Rihanna shares two covers of 72 Magazine Summer 2026 [IG] issue. Titled “La Reine", the 18 page story honors a highly-influential woman who continues to shape the vanguard of global style and culture. The talented photographer Szilveszter Makó [IG] shot Rihanna shot for the first time, with Enninful styling the story. Looks worthy of Rihanna’s queenly beehive come from Bottega Veneta, Chanel, Dior, Maison Alaia, Maison Valentino, Schiaparelli and more.

Edward and Rihanna

The collaborative, creative partnership between Rihanna and Edward Enninful began 15 years ago. Since then, their careers have been intrinsically linked, producing imagery some consider to be the most influential imagery in modern media history.

Among their most spectacular fashion collaborations was a W Magazine September 2016 story lensed by Steven Klein.

Edward continues, discussing their work process:

“Rihanna and I share a deep, instinctive creative shorthand, honed for over fifteen years.

Every single time we collaborate, it is about challenging what a ‘fashion editorial’ can and should actually achieve, and meeting creativity where it is today.

Rihanna doesn't follow trends; she defines the culture we live in and for our latest story, we wanted to draw on her profound understanding of fashion and art to channel something entirely majestic.

We started, like we always do, with an exchange of ideas; this time we wanted to focus on African royal portraiture through the decades. Watching her collaborate with Szilveszter for the first time is a moment I’ll never forget. I am so proud of what we delivered together.”

Edward Enninful, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of EE72

More Szilveszter Mako

For an artistic photographer like Szilveszter Mako, this fashion shoot can create a huge and sometimes life-changing experience. The Hungarian-born photographer came to Milan, Italy because of his passion for Renaissance style art. Szilveszter prioritizes sustainability; using recycled material and natural light sources.

The photographer grew up close to forests, craft traditions, and an unconventional education steeped in languages like Ancient Greek and Latin. Arts and crafts were not extracurricular hobbies; they were foundational blocks of his education. Most people viewing his photography understand immediately that Makó edits his photos as if he is creating a painting.

In his own words, the photographer describes his experience:

“ An unexpected all-nighter in Paris, wrapped gently by the first light of sunrise. A little delirium, and so much gratitude. I’m deeply honoured to witness Rihanna’s beauty in person — especially those unforgettable beautiful eyes, luminous and almost impossible to describe, but a privilege to capture. A long night, a strange little blessing, and a memory I’ll keep with a smile.”