The VMAs kicked off on the evening of September 7 at New York’s UBS Arena, showcasing a dazzling array of fashion that captivated audiences worldwide. From Doja Cat in Balmain to Ariana Grande in Fendi, the red carpet was a spectacle of creativity and boldness, reminding us why the VMAs are a highlight in the fashion calendar.
### A Night of Exaggeration and Spectacle
The VMAs have long distinguished themselves as pop culture’s most unruly runway. Unlike the Oscars or Grammys, where elegance reigns supreme, the VMAs invite a more provocative approach to fashion. This year, stars like Doja Cat, Sabrina Carpenter, and Lady Gaga embraced a “more-is-more” theme, turning the red carpet into a canvas for exaggeration. Dramatic silhouettes and revealing designs dominated the scene, ensuring that the evening was filled with eye-catching moments that sparked conversations across social media.
### Doja Cat in Balmain and Chopard
Kicking off the night was Doja Cat, who dazzled in a Balmain mini dress adorned with a pastel blue and yellow harlequin pattern. The dress featured intricate pink embroidery along the neckline, perfectly complementing her over-the-top aesthetic. Accessorized with over 85 carats of diamond jewelry from Chopard, Doja’s look channeled the decadent fashions of the ’80s, setting the tone for the evening.
### Tate McRae in Custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin
Tate McRae made a bold statement with her custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin gown, which featured a sheer skirt that left little to the imagination. The icy-white bra top, complete with a plunging sweetheart neckline and twisted spaghetti straps, transitioned into a completely see-through trailing skirt. The daring design was accentuated by cheeky white underwear, making it one of the most talked-about outfits of the night.
### Ariana Grande in Fendi and Swarovski
Ariana Grande made her grand return to the VMAs, stepping away from her Wicked promo tour to showcase a stunning custom black-and-white polka dot gown by Fendi. Styled by the talented Law Roach, the strapless sweetheart gown featured a voluminous blush-pink peplum waist, drawing inspiration from a dress worn by Silvia Venturini in the 1980s. Grande’s look was a perfect blend of nostalgia and modernity, capturing the essence of the evening.
### Sabrina Carpenter in Custom Valentino and Tiffany & Co.
Sabrina Carpenter opted for a dramatic floor-length gown designed by Valentino, departing from her usual minidress style. The fitted gown, made of see-through red tulle embroidered with sequined lace, was complemented by diamond jewelry from Tiffany & Co. Carpenter added a playful touch with a pink maribu-feathered boa, embodying the glamour and whimsy that the VMAs are known for.
### Conan Gray in Erik Charlotte
Emerging star Conan Gray turned heads in a nautical-inspired look from Erik Charlotte. His navy denim ruffled dress, paired with a white lace underskirt, was topped off with a sailor’s hat and sky-high platform boots. Gray’s ensemble showcased his unique style and solidified his status as a fashion-forward artist to watch.
### Ciara in Schiaparelli
Ciara brought the heat in a striking Schiaparelli minidress that cleverly merged elements of a bomber jacket with a chic dress. The design featured voluminous sleeves and heavy-duty zippers, which she paired with invisible PVC pumps and silver jewelry. The combination of soft lines and edgy details made Ciara one of the standout fashionistas of the night.
### Tyla in Vintage Chanel and Pandora
Tyla kept her look cute and classic in a vintage Chanel cream-colored boucle mini dress from the brand’s 1993 spring collection. The black trim at the neckline and pockets added a touch of sophistication, while her accessories from Pandora’s latest Talisman collection brought a modern twist to her vintage ensemble.
### Lenny Kravitz in Saint Laurent
Rock legend Lenny Kravitz opted for a brown wool check suit from Saint Laurent, adding a daring twist by going shirtless. His chiseled abs were on full display, proving that sometimes less is more when it comes to making a statement on the red carpet.
### Katseye in Dolce & Gabbana
The pop sensation group Katseye made their VMA red carpet debut in coordinating looks from Dolce & Gabbana. Nominated for “MTV Push Performance of the Year” and “Best Group,” the girl group showcased a mix of shiny silks and sheer tulle, perfectly polished for their moment in the spotlight.
### Sombr in Valentino
Rounding out the evening was Sombr, a “Best New Artist” nominee, who made a striking appearance in a black Valentino suit. The ensemble featured a silk scarf wrap at the waist and intricate floral embroidery on the lapels and sleeve cuffs, showcasing the artist’s flair for fashion and individuality.
The VMAs continue to be a platform for artists to express their creativity and push the boundaries of fashion. This year’s event was no exception, with each celebrity bringing their unique style to the forefront, ensuring that the night would be remembered for its bold and breathtaking fashion choices.
