The fashion industry’s worst-kept secret is now official: LVMH has at last confirmed it is extending its partnership with singer and celebrity Rihanna into fashion.

“Everybody knows Rihanna as a wonderful singer, but through our partnership at Fenty Beauty, I discovered a true entrepreneur, a real CEO and a terrific leader,” said LVMH chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault.

As a result, LVMH and Robyn Rihanna Fenty will launch a new luxury Maison headquartered in Paris called Fenty. LVMH says it will be centred on Rihanna, developed by her, and will be shaped by her vision in ready to wear, shoes and accessories. It will launch in the Northern Hemisphere Spring of this year.

“Designing a line like this with LVMH is an incredibly special moment for us,” said Rihanna. “Mr Arnault has given me a unique opportunity to develop a fashion house in the luxury sector, with no artistic limits. I couldn’t imagine a better partner both creatively and business-wise, and I’m ready for the world to see what we have built together.”

Arnault added: [Rihanna] naturally finds her full place within LVMH. To support Rihanna to start up the Fenty Maison, we have built a talented and multicultural team supported by the group resources. I am proud that LVMH is leading this venture and wish it will be a great success.”

News of the new venture first broke in January when online portal WWD and the New York Times cited multiple unnamed sources confirming plans.

The new Maison has launched a website: www.fenty.com