Rihanna. Yes.

Not gonna lie, I'm marginally obsessed with Rihanna. I love that she rocks red hair, knows how to wear elaborate hats, and stays classy while sporting midriff-baring bandeau dresses and singing a song about bondage. Girl knows how to work it but isn't too self-aware, which is rare in someone of her pop-culture caliber. When rumors began to circulate a few months back that she was to cover American Vogue I was pleasantly surprised, and now that the photos have surfaced I'm downright ecstatic. The cover itself is gorgeous (the flaming locks! the transparent dress!) and the Annie Leibovitz-shot spread does not disappoint. It's typically pretty, as is the Vogue way, but her raw sensual power shines through; I love the lone shot of her wine-colored lipstick snarl. To be honest, she probably would have been a better feature for their Power issue, but Shape works well anyway, especially when she's twisted into a pretzel in a banded Leger suit. Way to go, Vogue, for finally stepping outside your Blake Lively box

all photos: Vogue.com

also, can the costume designer for this video get some type of award? So many plastic dresses. So many jewels and candies. and the colors! I could go on....