Rihanna in Elle

The topic of Rihanna and her life always tends to bring much controversy. Some love her, others don't. While I am no judge of one's character or how they live their life, I do respect Rihanna for not being afraid to be herself and ignore what others have to say. I think many people tend to forget that she's still young and she doesn't have the pleasure of being able to make mistakes behind closed doors. Unfortunately hers is in the spotlight 24/7. After reading her story in Elle July 2010 issue, I saw a young girl living in a crazy chaotic world. She's human like the rest of us... vulnerable, wants to be in love... yet her career calls for her to be iconic and bigger than what she actually is. One quote I walked away with from her interview was on being a strong woman: “I wanted pictures that represented strength and fearlessness but still femininity—a strong woman who can be vulnerable. Every woman is made up of vulnerability and strength; no matter what race you are, no matter what you’ve been through in your life. Every woman has that strength that is undeniable, but we also have really big hearts. It’s just us.”

Check out more on Rihanna, Matt Kemp and her career at Elle.com

Rihanna in Georgette dress, Roberto Cavalli, $2,042. Cocktail hat, Noel Stewart Millinery, $500. Diamond earrings, Anita Ko, $4,600. Tube link necklace, Mawl, $670. Stockings, Falke, $34. Her own Neil Lane Rings

Draped silk dress, $4,993, head scarf, $645, both, Lanvin. Diamond earrings, Anita Ko, $4,600.

Yellow gold necklace, Cartier.

Printed trench coat, Lanvin, $3,990. Silk-blend briefs, 3.1 Phillip Lim, $75. Gazar veil, Noel Stewart Millinery. Diamond earrings, Anita Ko, $4,600. Her own Neil Lane rings

(All photos and quotes courtesy of Elle.com)