If you’re not aware of how powerful branding can work for you, maybe’s Rihanna’s achievement can show you the possibilities. By building an attractive image and powerful brand, she is now able to command money for appearances that many might deem as unnecessary. According to Black Voices, the popular singer is now able to command over $100,000 for her appearance at Fashion Week. This occurs more often than you think, especially with celebrities, athletes, and influential people. However, you’re not able to do this without the right reputation at hand.

Once you’ve attained a loyal following, the “going gets good” as they say. After you’re actually able to afford things, you shouldn’t really have to as ironic as it sounds. Free designer clothing is an example of a perk. Another example is paid appearances. That’s why if you’re an influential person, you should figure out how to capitalize off your branding.  It’s not wise to continue spending money for clothing, not consider paid appearances, and ignore corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations for event hosting. So, once you’ve made significant strides in your wealth journey, it will be time to live off your brand and not your personal money.

While Rihanna does rake in the largest amount of money for her appearance in Fashion Week, the following list indicates that she is not alone. As a matter of fact, she’s in good company with some other powerful industry names. Check out the list of paid celebrities below for inspiration:

A-List
Rihanna ($100,000 or more)
Beyonce ($80,000-$100,000)
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen ($80,000 each)
Julianne Moore ($60,000)
Maggie Gyllanhal ($60,000)
Chloe Sevigny ($60,000 or more)
Jennifer Lopez (circa 2005: $80,000; circa 2010: $30,000)
Lindsay Lohan (circa 2006: $60,000; circa 2010: UNINVITED)
Colin Firth (pre-A Single Man: $5,000; post-A Single Man: $15,000)

B-List
Blake Lively ($50,000)
Leighton Meester ($40,000)
Hillary Duff ($40,000)
Other Gossip Girl cast members ($25,000 a piece)
Jared Leto ($25,000)
Cliven Owen ($10,000)
Kristen Bell (unpaid, but airfare, makeup and clothing are taken care of)

C-List
Kim Kardashian ($35,000-$50,000)
Amanda Bynes ($25,000-$30,000)
Eliza Dushku (unpaid, but airfare, makeup and clothing are taken care of)

D-List
Paris Hilton (free or UNINVITED)
Jersey Shore cast (UNINVITED)
America’s Next Top Model Winners (free)

*Image courtesy of Fashion Feen.