VMAs 2024 Red Carpet Fashion: Must-See Outfits and Looks!

BY DANÉ PRINSLOO
Sep 12, 2024
7 min read

The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) have long been synonymous with unforgettable fashion moments, and the 2024 edition was no exception. Held at Long Island’s UBS Arena, this year’s VMAs saw the biggest stars in music, film, and social media gather to celebrate the most creative moments in music. Although this event is all about music, the attendees are always dressed to impress (or to make a statement). From daring ensembles to timeless chic styles, the red carpet was awash with every type of look imaginable, making it a night to remember for fashion lovers everywhere. The VMAs have a rich history of unforgettable fashion moments, from Gwyneth Paltrow’s iconic red velvet Gucci suit by Tom Ford in 1996 to Pamela Anderson’s oversized pink furry hat in 1999. Who could forget Lil' Kim’s legendary pasty in 1999? In more recent memory, Lady Gaga’s infamous meat dress made waves and remains one of the most talked-about VMA outfits of all time and Olivia Rodrigo’s rhinestoned, body-conscious Ludovic de Saint Sernin.

After last year’s ceremony in Newark, New Jersey, the VMAs returned to the heart of New York at the UBS Arena, kicking off with a star-studded red carpet. The event, hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, promised an evening of high fashion and electrifying performances. With Taylor Swift leading the nominations with 12 nods, followed closely by Post Malone with 11 and Eminem with eight, the competition was fierce. The night also celebrated the achievements of artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Megan Thee Stallion, and Ariana Grande, each with seven nominations. Katy Perry was honoured with the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, solidifying her status as a music icon.

As the stars made their way down the red carpet, it became clear that this year’s VMAs would deliver on its reputation for bold fashion choices. Some trends for the night were cutouts, 90’s pop references, veiling, goth look and lots of black and white. Here’s a look at 20 of the most talked-about outfits from the night:

1. Halsey in vintage Versace

Halsey dazzled on the red carpet in a piece of fashion history. The singer revealed she was wearing a coveted archival Versace gown, originally designed by Gianni Versace for Elizabeth Hurley in 1996—making Halsey only the second person to don this iconic dress. The striking red leopard maxi exuded that quintessential Versace jungle vibe, enhanced by Swarovski crystals that added a touch of texture. Halsey styled the look with an ombré wig that mirrored the dress’s bold black-and-red pattern, and kept the glam understated with a ‘90s mauve lip, paying a nod to Versace's golden era.

2. Tate McRae in Roberto Cavalli

Tate McRae turned heads in a sheer Roberto Cavalli gown, channelling a "model-off-duty" vibe with effortlessly tousled hair and radiant skin. Her look was a chic nod to Britney Spears' 2001 iconic lace mini dress, paying homage to the pop princess with a modern twist. McRae's custom piece, crafted by Fausto Puglisi, mirrored Spears' memorable style, showcasing black lace over matching Fleur du Mal briefs and bra. McRae’s reinterpretation of this legendary outfit captured both nostalgia and contemporary flair on the red carpet.

3. Megan Thee Stallion in Nicole + Felicid Couture

Megan Thee Stallion was a brilliant host and had multiple outfit changes. While all of them were gorgeous in their own way, her red carpet look stood out. Megan wore a black bodysuit with a skin tight mesh skirt and a separate black skirt tied around her legs. The composition was interesting and looked like it was two separate outfits put together.

4. Camila Cabello in Tony Ward Couture

Camilla Cabello showed off her newly dark hair with an all-black outfit. She told a reporter that she felt like she wanted to “let go” of many things and therefore she is dressing as if she were going to a very extravagant funeral. She accessorised her couture black dress with a stunning black lace veil and stacked cross necklaces.

5. Addison Rae in Miss Claire Sullvian

The TikTok star Addison Rae is clearly tired of people calling her “the girl next door”. She is stepping out of her plain Jane era and starting a singing career along with changing her style. At the VMA’s she certainly gave us an unexpected, bold red carpet look. Addison’s feathered bra and half tutu was a playful and sexy combination. This outfit was also a reference to Madonna’s 1984 performance of “Like a Virgin”.

6. Katy Perry and husband in Who Decides War and Orlando Bloom

Katy Perry went for a wet look in a distressed threaded two piece set showing off some skin. She got this look straight off the runway from the Who Decides War Spring 2025 collection. Orlando Bloom was by her side in an all black smart-casual look, making her stand out even more.

7. Sabrina Carpenter in archival Bob Mackie and De Beers

Sabrina Carpenter recreated Madonna’s glamorous old Hollywood aesthetic by wearing the exact dress Madonna wore to the Oscars in 1991. Sabrina keeps referencing 20th century fashion and she’s great at it! For this look, she has the same bright blond hair as Madonna, but added softer curls to make it more modern.

8. Teddy Swims

Teddy Swims wore a white shirt with long off-white pants and paired it with a large off-white and black patterned trench coat. It’s all about the details in this look. Teddy is wearing multiple chains covered in diamonds around his neck and wrists. His tattoos also make the outfit and we can see some on his neck and hands. Lastly, his bright red nails were on everyone’s lips. Teddy had his nails bedazzled and even made his pinky finger a super long stiletto shape.

9. Halle Bailey in Sophie Couture

Halle Bailey was dazzling in her cherry red ensemble. Her custom Sophie Couture dress had modest cutout details and the sparkles reminded us of a night of partying.

10. Jazzelle Zanaughtti

If Jazzelle Zanaughtti wasn’t on your radar before, she certainly is now with this bold, gothic statement. The model, who fronted Rihanna’s Fenty Skin campaign in 2020, in a daring sheer outfit, complete with a skirt of silver chains and a dramatic ruffled mermaid hem, leaving fans in awe.

11. Chappell Roan in Y/Project & Rabanne

Chappell Roan stunned at the 2024 MTV VMAs with a unique, mediaeval-inspired look that paid homage to Joan of Arc. While many opted for traditional glam, she chose a bold Y/Project Fall 2024 gown in burgundy and white tulle. The standout accessories—a sword, armoured manicure, mediaeval cuffs, mesh gloves, and a crucifix—completed the warrior-like aesthetic, showcasing a fierce and captivating style that made a lasting impression.

12. Anitta in Dolce & Gabbana

Anitta stole the spotlight at the 2024 MTV VMAs, winning Best Latin for "Mil Veces" and turning heads in a custom Dolce & Gabbana lingerie-inspired white ensemble. With a sheer veil and lace-up dress, she gave the look a bold, bridal twist, complemented by silver heels and diamond jewellery. Known for pushing boundaries, Anitta's daring outfit was a standout, possibly nodding to iconic VMAs moments like Madonna’s 'Like a Virgin' or the Britney-Madonna kiss.

13. Shawn Mendes in Dolce & Gabbana

Shawn Mendes stood out in a classic Dolce & Gabbana suit. His double-breasted jacket, with its '80s boxy fit and textured embroidery, added a modern twist to a timeless Italian design. Mendes opted for a daring chest-baring look, skipping the tie in favour of a trendier style. His relaxed black trousers, flaring over western-style boots, embraced the current cowboy chic trend, making a stylish statement.

14. Coco Jones in Lever Couture

Coco Jones made a stunning debut at the MTV VMAs 2024 in a striking silver ribbon dress by Lever Couture. Her ethereal gown, highlighted by $240,000 in diamonds from Jared, featured a sculptural, asymmetrical design with a dramatic train. The shimmering fabric and intricate metallic ribbons created a futuristic and fluid look that captivated on the red carpet.

15. Suki Waterhouse in Dolce & Gabbana

Suki Waterhouse wore a form-fitting Dolce & Gabbana dress. The form-fitting silhouette featured a high-waisted skirt, with delicate cutouts on the bodice and sides, linked by a slender strap. She elevated the look with a chic black feathered crop jacket and finished it off with matching black heels

16. Margaret Qualley in Chanel with husband Jack Antonoff

At the VMAs, Margaret stood out with a timeless, refined look inspired by Chanel's Fall 1995 Haute Couture. Her dress, with delicate feathers and flowing chiffon, paid homage to her ballet background and dance work, adding a touch of ethereal grace to the red carpet.

17. Doechii in Thom Browne

Doechii turned heads in a daring Thom Browne ensemble, featuring a patchwork blazer and a patterned tie that played to her preppy aesthetic. Complementing her bold look, her braided updo by Malcolm Marcquez, added the perfect finishing touch.

18. Paris Hilton in Celia Kritharioti

Paris Hilton wore a striking distressed Celia Kritharioti dress, adorned with shimmering chainmail. Hilton’s custom creation was complemented by a coordinating box clutch and matching pumps, while layered jewelled chokers added a touch of opulence. Her blonde locks were styled in a sleek, “wet” look, and her makeup featured sparkling eyeshadow paired with a glossy nude lip, embodying a perfect blend of modern glamour and classic elegance.

19. Lisa from Blackpink in Mugler

Lisa turned heads in a bespoke Mugler gown that masterfully blended structure and fluidity. The design featured a corseted bodice with semi-exposed boning, dramatic fabric draping and a sleek veil. Shimmering details accentuated the bodice, while the pointed sculptural neckline and flowing hood added a touch of high fashion allure. To finish her look, Lisa added a touch of opulence with a gold Bulgari Serpenti necklace, enhancing her striking red carpet presence.

20. Tinashe in Rick Owens

Tinashe opted for a grunge-glam look at the VMA’s. She wore a black leather dress that was roughly cutout at the top, while beautifully tailored and draped from the waist down. She accessorised it with a big silver pendant necklace, a matching bracelet and long, more subtle earrings.