Believe It or Not: Rihanna Can Go Modest, Too

When you hear the name Rihanna, a few words may automatically pop into your mind. Sexy. Talented. Outrageous. Risqué. But modest? Never. That’s why I — like many of you, I’m sure — was positively shocked to see the provocative pop star landing the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s Modesty Issue, of all things. I mean, this is the woman who just wore a completely sheer, nipple-baring gown to the 2014 CFDA Fashion Awards — a woman who was kicked off of Instagram for her stream of racy photos and whose Twitter account warns you that every single one of her pictures “may contain sensitive material” (even when said picture is of a really adorable dog).

But on second thought, considering that Rihanna is always one to push the envelope and go completely against the grain (primarily by wearing barely-there clothes at every turn), it shouldn’t be too surprising that she’s choosing to shock us all this time around by doing the opposite of what everyone expects: covering up. And what’s more, her cover and fashion spread for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia — which are stunning, as you probably assumed — aren’t the first occasions on which Rihanna has looked absolutely amazing without showing an overload of skin.

In fact, I can think of nine times in particular that the Barbados beauty has looked just as sexy all covered up as she has in even her most revealing ensembles. Check them out:

1. At the Dior Cruise 2015 Show

The singer was the definition of "pretty in pink" in this tame and flirty number.

2. At the Lanvin Fall 2014 Show

Just in case the baggy pants and wool sweater weren't enough to cover up, she threw on a fur stole, too.

3. At the 2013 Grammy Awards

The slightly sheer overlay on her super-graceful Azzedine Alaia gown wasn't enough to even be considered sensational.

4. At a 2012 Event in London

Rihanna took a cue from the boys in her Acne suit and Raf Simons coat to create one ultra-chic ensemble.

5. At the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards

Simplicity is sexy — a fact the superstar proved once and for all in her minimalist, modest Adam Selman gown.

6. At the 2012 Met Gala

A body-hugging fit and sexy snakeskin print often combine to create an over-the-top look, but Rihanna kept it simple and sophisticated in this Tom Ford number.

7. At the Battleship Japan Premiere

From the baggy fit to the pajama silhouette, there's nothing revealing about this Emilio Pucci ensemble.

8. At a Perfume Launch in London

Looking like a perfect lady in her feathered, two-piece Antonio Berardi outfit, Rihanna showed that she can do bright hues and bold embellishments while staying all covered up.

9. At the 2010 Grammy Awards

With a dress this haute couture, an overload of skin is the last thing you need to throw into the mix.

Image: @rihanna/Twitter