The VMAs have given us countless iconic red-carpet moments over the years. There’s a unique quality to this award ceremony, hosted by MTV, that encourages celebrities to drop their inhibitions and simply have a blast. It stands in stark contrast to events like the Oscars or Cannes, where you’d rarely witness someone like Saweetie boldly rocking a look straight off the runway, complete with oversized, Flintstones-inspired bones. As she candidly expressed on the red carpet, “Go all out, darling, damn.”
Gone are the days when Madonna flaunted a white lace bustier dress with a “Boy Toy” belt, Sofia Coppola donned a sheer nightgown layered over tiny black panties, or Rose McGowan left jaws dropping in a naked dress that put all others to shame. Despite the ongoing discussions about personal style, the red-carpet ensembles at the 2023 VMAs have taken on a more contemporary and trend-conscious vibe, yet there were still remarkable custom runway looks from fashion icons such as Taylor Swift and Cardi B.
Taylor Swift in Versace
Taylor Swift caused a social media frenzy, not on Twitter, oh I mean on X, thanks to her enthusiastic fangirling during the VMAs. Her joy was palpable, especially during the *NSYNC reunion, which almost moved her to tears. What truly stood out was how effortlessly she carried her look that night, particularly in that elegant Versace gown with its daring leg-baring slit. Yet, even in this bold attire, Swift’s signature style shone through, and her self-assured demeanour was evident in every viral GIF shared.
Cardi B Wears a Custom Dilara Findikoglu Ensemble
What many may not fully grasp about Cardi B is that she’s not just an ordinary person; she’s a true fashion aficionado. Her outfit for the evening was a specially crafted creation by Dilara Findikoglu, with a few subtle modifications from the mini version previously showcased on the London Fashion Week runway back in February. It’s like wearing a stunning suit of armor, as if someone had meticulously tailored the Iron Throne itself.
Selena Gomez adorned in Oscar de la Renta
While floral patterns on the red carpet occasionally exude a casual vibe, Selena Gomez’s Oscar de la Renta ensemble exudes a sense of elegance reminiscent of red vines gracefully winding around her.
Olivia Rodrigo in Custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin
Shines in a Bespoke Ludovic de Saint Sernin Creation Adorned with an impressive 150,000 Swarovski crystals, Olivia Rodrigo dazzled in her custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin gown. The singer, who recently released her second album, “Guts,” pays homage to the ’90s and early ’00s through her fashion choices. Her understated yet glamorous red carpet appearances effortlessly capture the laid-back essence of that era, exuding authenticity unlike some of her contemporaries’ more ostentatious approaches.
Stephen Sanchez In Balenciaga
Emerging singer-songwriter Stephen Sanchez was stylishly attired in a sleek black suit adorned with an oversized baby-blue bow tie. Completing his ensemble, he carried a chic black Gucci bamboo handle Diana tote bag and sported polished black leather boots.
Demi Lovato In an Edgy Look
Demi Lovato exuded an edgy vibe as they donned a generously proportioned, geometric black coat paired with a mesh and leather mini dress by the emerging Chinese fashion label, Buerlangma.
Shakira in Atelier Versace
The recipient of this year’s Video Vanguard Award appeared stunning in an exquisite, backless chainmail ensemble crafted by Atelier Versace, which gracefully accentuated her every contour.
Sabrina Carpenter in custom Vera Wang look
The singer of “Nonsense” made a stylish entrance at the VMAs, donning a white tulle dress that flowed gracefully over a sparkling bustier bodysuit.