The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet is notorious for its outrageous and over-the-top displays of fashion.
Each year, the MTV VMAs bring together artists across genres in a celebration of music and must-see moments. But before stars enter the UBS Arena in Elmont, N.Y., they’re debuting looks that could be talked about for years to come.
Who could forget the scandalous lilac jumpsuit and singular 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 made entirely of raw beef.
Celebrities know the VMAs are the place to make a sartorial splash. Here are some of the most unforgettable looks from the event.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift put on an edgy display when she walked the black carpet. The “Fortnight” singer, who could make history tonight as the only artist to win the Video of the Year award three consecutive times and five times overall, channeled her inner punk with a yellow plaid corset dress by Dior. Swift, who endorsed Kamala Harris for president on Instagram Sept. 10, finished the look with black leather gloves.
Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter channeled Old Hollywood glamour in a vintage Bob Mackie gown worn by Madonna for the 1991 Oscars. The “Taste” singer, who is nominated for seven awards including Artist of the Year, sparkled in a body-hugging strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline.
Chappell Roan
Wielding a literal sword, first-time VMA nominee and performer Chappell Roan stepped out in a sheer black dress with a plunging neckline, which she topped off with a sage green velvet cape.
Her mesh gloves, silver-toned cuffs, cross pendant and metallic, clawlike nails further elevated her gothic look.
Katy Perry
Katy Perry, who is the recipient of the 2024 Video Vanguard Award, stepped out in an asymmetrical top and low-waisted skirt from Who Decides War’s spring/summer 2025 collection.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion, who is pulling double duty as both host and performer, wore a glamorous black gown featuring a corseted bodice with 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 frock with a coordinating lace veil and cross pendants.
Halsey
Halsey arrived in a vintage Versace gown. During the red carpet preshow, the “Lucky” singer revealed that the red-and-black leopard-printed frock was previously worn by actress Elizabeth Hurley in 1996.
Addison Rae
Addison Rae looked reminiscent of a Victoria’s Secret Angel when she walked the black carpet. The “Diet Pepsi” singer sported white satin lingerie with a tulle skirt.
Shawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes kept things classic in an all-black suit.
Benson Boone
Four-time VMA nominee Benson Boone sported 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 paired with a feathered shawl.
Halle Bailey
The Little Mermaid actress stepped out in a beaded red gown with a strapless, structured bodice.
Shaboozey
Best New Artist and Song of Summer nominee Shaboozey kept things casual. The singer sported a button up shirt and dark denim jeans.
Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert wore an all-black pantsuit with a statement turquoise collar. Turquoise pops of color were also seen in her necklace and nails.
Anitta
Anitta, who is nominated for Best Latin, looked every bit bridal — with a twist — in a white corseted minidress with a matching veil.
Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper wore a black-and-white suit on the black carpet.
DJ Khaled
DJ Khaled opted for a matching pink button-up and pants in a woven material. His rose-colored glasses complemented the look.
Karol G
Best Latin nominee Karol G put on a fiery display in a flame-printed floor-length gown.
LISA
Four-time VMA nominee LISA made a dramatic entrance in a blush-toned gown, complete with a draped hood and nude corseted bodice.
Lenny Kravitz
Lenny Kravitz, who is performing at the awards show, kept to his signature rocker style with an all-leather ensemble.
Insane Clown Posse
Hip-hop duo Insane Clown Posse members Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope wore bold printed suits.
Tayshia Adams
Former Bachelorette Tayshia Adams kept things simple in a black dress with a plunging neckline.
The Warning
Alejandra, Daniela and Paulina Villarreal, members of Mexican rock band the Warning, stepped out in coordinating red looks.
