Rihanna to launch a make-up collection for MAC

The beauty giant has snapped up the pop singer as its latest star collaborator

MAC has a long history of star collaborators, but its latest could be its biggest yet: pop superstar Rihanna.

In an unprecedented deal, the cosmetics giant announced today that it will join forces with the Barbados-born singer to create a series of make-up collections that will roll out later this year – the first time that the beauty firm has teamed up with a celebrity for more than just a one-off project.

The first product to hit beauty counters will be a lipstick, called RiRi Woo, inspired by the songstress' favourite MAC red lippie, the Ruby Woo. The release will coincide with Rihanna's Diamonds tour concerts in New York on 4th and 5th May, where a pop-up shop will sell the range.

A total of four collections will be released throughout 2013, collectively known as RiRi [Hearts] Mac, which will all feature the signature RiRi Woo lipstick. The summer line will include a further two lippies, a highlighter and a powder blush duo. For autumn, think four lipsticks, an eyeshadow palette and false lashes, and just in time for Christmas, you'll be able to snap up a 10-piece collection featuring nail varnishes, a cosmetics bag and additional lipsticks.

PICS: RIHANNA FOR RIVER ISLAND S/S 2013

'When you think of make-up, the brand that pops into your mind – for something legit – is MAC,' Rihanna told WWD. 'Whatever colour you want, it’s like ‘Let’s go to MAC.’ I’ve been using MAC on tour for such a long time it was a natural fit for me. I have always loved make-up, and I always said that if I do it, I want to do it with a credible brand.'

It's understood that Rihanna has already shot the campaign ads to accompany the autumn and Christmas collections with hot photography duo, Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, and even roped in her girlfriends to help brainstorm ideas on everything from colours and textures to packaging.

She added: 'I never thought I’d be able to create make-up with such a big brand so quickly at such a young age. It’s kind of sick to even say aloud when I think about it.'

The Rihanna for Mac collection will launch MAC stores and online later this year.

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