The red carpet of the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards is notorious for its outrageous and over-the-top fashion presentations.
Every year, the MTV VMAs bring together artists from all genres for a celebration of music and unforgettable moments. But before the stars step into the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, they debut looks that will be talked about for years to come.
Who could forget the scandalous purple jumpsuit and unique seashell-shaped pastie that Lil’ Kim wore to the 1999 awards show, or Rose McGowan’s barely-there dress from the 1998 ceremony? We’d be remiss not to mention Lady Gaga’s controversial 2010 look, which was made entirely of raw beef.
Celebrities know the VMAs are the place to make a fashion statement. Here are some of the most unforgettable looks from the event.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift made an edgy entrance as she walked the black carpet. The “Fortnight” singer, who could make history tonight as the only artist to win Video of the Year three times in a row and five times overall, channeled her inner punk in a yellow checkered corset dress by Dior. Swift, who took to Instagram on Sept. 10 to promote Kamala Harris for president, completed the look with black leather gloves.
Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter exuded old Hollywood glamour in a vintage Bob Mackie dress that Madonna wore to the 1991 Oscars. The “Taste” singer, who is nominated for seven awards including Female Artist of the Year, sparkled in a figure-hugging, strapless dress with a sweetheart neckline.
Chappell Roan
First-time VMA nominee Chappell Roan literally wielded a sword and appeared in a sheer black dress with a plunging neckline, which she topped off with a sage green velvet cape.
Her fishnet gloves, silver-colored cuffs, cross pendant and metallic claw-like nails further enhance her gothic look.
Katy Perry
Katy Perry, winner of the 2024 Video Vanguard Award, appeared in an asymmetric top and low-waisted skirt from Who Decides War’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion, who serves as both host and performer, wore a glamorous black dress with a corset bodice and a voluminous, semi-sheer mermaid skirt.
Camila Cabello
Camila Cabello arrived at the VMAs in a gothic-inspired gown with delicate black beading by Tony Ward Couture. She paired the dramatic dress with a matching lace veil and cross pendants.
Halsey
Halsey appeared in a vintage Versace dress. During the pre-show on the red carpet, the “Lucky” singer revealed that the red and black leopard print dress was already worn by actress Elizabeth Hurley in 1996.
Addison Rae
Addison Rae looked like a Victoria’s Secret angel as she walked the black carpet. The “Diet Pepsi” singer wore white satin underwear and a tulle skirt.
Shawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes kept it classic with an all-black suit.
Benson Boone
Four-time VMA nominee Benson Boone wore a sheer black lace blouse with black pants. The “Beautiful Things” singer added some sparkle to his look with silver loafers.
Suki Waterhouse
Suki Waterhouse wore a black dress with cut-out details, which she combined with a feather scarf.
Halle Bailey
The Little Mermaid The actress appeared in a beaded red dress with a strapless, structured bodice.
Shaboozey
Nominated for Best New Artist and Song of the Summer, Shaboozey kept it casual. The singer wore a button-up shirt and dark jeans.
Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert wore an all-black pantsuit with a striking turquoise collar. There were also touches of turquoise on her necklace and nails.
Anita
Anitta, who is nominated for the “Best Latin” award, looked absolutely like a bride in a white mini dress with a corset and matching veil – with that special something.
Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper wore a black and white suit on the black carpet.
DJ Khaled
DJ Khaled opted for a matching pink button-down shirt and woven pants, with rose-tinted glasses completing the look.
Karol G
Nominee for the Best Latin American award, Karol G, delivered a fiery performance in a floor-length dress with a flame print.
LISA
Four-time VMA nominee LISA made a dramatic entrance in a reddish dress with a draped hood and a skin-colored corset bodice.
Lenny Kravitz
Lenny Kravitz, who performed at the awards ceremony, stayed true to his typical rocker style with an all-leather ensemble.
Insane clown farce
The members of the hip-hop duo Insane Clown Posse, Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope, wore suits with eye-catching prints.
Tayshia Adams
Former Bachelorette Tayshia Adams kept it simple and wore a black dress with a plunging neckline.
The warning
Alejandra, Daniela and Paulina Villarreal, members of the Mexican rock band The Warning, appeared in coordinated red looks.