Last Sunday night, some of the world’s biggest names in entertainment stormed into Newark for an epic night of show stopping performances and record breaking wins, but the jaw dropping fashion is what we came to see!
When it comes to red carpets, the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) is in a league of its own and saying that it has spawned some of the most iconic fashion moments is an understatement. Over the course of its 39-year history, the fashion gods have blessed us to witness everything from Marie Antoinette cosplay by Madonna to editorial nipple pasties by Lil Kim. Just when we thought we had seen it all, the avant garde bar reached its peak in 2010 when Lady Gaga pumped through in a now iconic dress made of raw meat. Yes, raw meat! Though conservative fashion critics may swoon over the elegance of old Hollywood glamour, the expectation for contemporary formal wear at this event is somewhat non-existent as the night is designed to celebrate the power of creative visual arts.
This year the organizers chose a black carpet theme that was sure to once again bring out a new round of innovative, memorable, and/or shocking looks.
Here’s our top ten favorite looks of the night:
- Lil Nas X was the moment in this black peacock skirt and hat set by Harris Reed, which seemed to be the dark alter ego of the ensemble worn by supermodel Iman at the 2022 Met Gala.
- Lizzo looked both confident and comfortable in this voluminous satin gown by Jean Paul Gaultier. The slicked do and black lip added finishing touches.
- Chlöe Bailey was simply stunning in this silver sequin, off-the-shoulder asymmetrical gown by Zigman. The look was complemented by Jimmy Choo heels.
- Shenseea is striking in this charmed, pillow-padden light denim look by Marc Jacobs. The bold look was rounded out by 6-inch platform heels and leather opera gloves.
- Justina Valentine is a rockstar lover girl in this fully stoned bodysuit and glove set by Amekana Boutique,
- Taylor Swift is dripping in this nude, crystal-embellished flapper dress by Oscar de la Renta.
- Anitta made a powerful statement in this blazing red deconstructed Schiaparelli gown. What waist?
- Latto hit the jackpot with this strappy neon green blazer mini-dress.
- Saucy Santana served us lavish material gworl realness in a white floor-length feathered gown with peek-a-boo link lining and pearl sandal heels.
- Conan Gray was a whimsical sight in the white lace embellished blazer-duster by Harris Reed. The look was elevated by towering 8-inch platform boots.
Other notable fashion moments came from groups like Maneskin and BLACKPINK who both showed up in all black looks.
From custom painted leather pieces to green ghoul masks, there is no doubt that a cultural reset is on the horizon in the world of fashion and the VMAs black carpet was just an appetizer. We cannot wait to see what next year’s festivities bring.