This month’s editorial theme of Nature x Nature is an exploration of the ties that bind—from the connection to self found in communing with nature—to the act of mothering.

Our May cover star Halle Bailey's rise continues as she makes waves with her starring role as Ariel in the live-action remake of Disney's The Little Mermaid. Elevating her stardom to new levels, the ingenue is primed for her big screen debut hitting theaters on May 26th.

The EBONY team traveled to West Hollywood, where we met up with the star on the heels of a whirlwind schedule of press appearances and photoshoots. Photographed at a sleek home in Malibu and nearby Zuma Beach, Bailey rocks a series of dreamy looks in aquatic tones. In her EBONY cover story, the multihyphenate also opens up about embracing individuality, releasing self-doubt, her special bond with sister Chloe, and how everything has led to her groundbreaking portrayal of Ariel—on her own terms.

This month we’re also taking a look at unique journeys to parenthood and transformative summer getaways. Plus, thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts and a celebration of fellowship through food with our inaugural Food & Wine Honors.