Celebrity Style
The biggest and the baddest.
So far, the 2022 MTV VMAs black carpet (the annual Video Music Awards’ alternative to a traditional red carpet) has been star-studded with an array of trends and brimming with hints of what’s to come throughout the show. From Lizzo’s high-fashion goth ensemble to Dove Cameron’s glitzy cutout dress, the night served up a visual buffet of incredible looks.
The awards show is also known for its risky — and risqué — fashion moments, and this year was no different: Lil Nas X showed up shirtless, Taylor Swift arrived dripping in crystals, and plenty of styles were seemingly inspired by looks of VMAs past, like Lil’ Kim’s pasty moment and a nod to past Video Vanguard Award winner Missy Elliot. VMAs newcomers got in on the action, too (see: Saucy Santana’s BDSM inspired look during a pre-show performance).
As a kickoff to Fashion Month, the VMAs definitely brought it in terms of Twitter-worthy style moments, with aesthetics ranging from Barbiecore and punk to goth and over-the-top glitz. With performances from Lizzo, Jack Harlow, Dove Cameron, and 2022 Video Vanguard award winner Nicki Minaj, the night was packed with delicious fashion looks. Ahead, a bunch of the best.
Lizzo
Intentional or not, Lizzo’s outfit definitely reminded me of Missy Elliot’s blow-up trash bag look from her “Supa Dupa Fly” music video.
Taylor Swift
Oscar de la Renta went full “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” for Taylor Swift.
Lil Nas X
Lil Nas X went for a look reminiscent of Iman’s Met Gala outfit from Camp: Notes on Fashion.
Lili Reinhart
Reinhart’s sheer, flowy gown is everything. The long sleeves, keyhole cutout, the sheer overlay, and head-to-toe lace combined punk and high glam.
Chlöe Bailey
Chlöe Bailey’s futuristic silver glitter gown included a structured bodice and thigh-high slit.
Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter wore a floral Moschino gown with waist cutouts and a large keyhole in the bodice.
Jack Harlow
In head-to-toe chocolate leather, Jack Harlow brought a Matrix-esque look to the black carpet.
Dixie D'Amelio
The TikTok star wore a classic, floor-length shimmery gown with a mock turtleneck.
Sofia Carson
Actress and singer Sofia Carson brought glam to the red carpet with a hooded sweetheart gown.
Avril Lavigne
Avril brought back her traditional punk look, complete with low-rise, baggy pants and a belt chain.
Dylan O'Brien
Can we start a petition to get more suits like this on red carpets?
Dove Cameron
Singer Dove Cameron went for a ’90s punk/goth look with bondage style accents on a full-length floral dress.
Shenseea
Paco Rabanne meets Rick Owens, and I’m living for it.
Becky G
The cut outs here — my jaw actually dropped to the floor.
Latto
Latto’s mini blazer dress with waist ties was basically the neon green version of Barbiecore.
Monet X Change
Monet X Change opted for a flower power moment that was a modern take on the ’70s flower child trend.
Anitta
Anitta’s fiery red gown combined Lil’ Kim’s infamous pasty moment and a Bridgerton-inspired corset.
Conan Grey
The platforms, the sheer duster, the lace edge work, the flared pants — so much to see in just one look.
Saucy Santana
If Old Hollywood icon Mae West was a “Material Girl,” this is what she would wear.
Chloe Fineman
Actress and comedian Chloe Fineman went futuristic, wearing a silver quilted gown reminiscent of a pillowy sleeping bag. The dress was “Cart Couture” by threeASFOUR from Instacart’s “The World Is Your Cart” campaign.
Doechii
The power shoulders here are sharp enough to cut somebody — and, tbh, it’s just the way I like it.
Samy Hawk
New artist Samy Hawk wore a custom leather jacket and wide brim hat. BRB, going to go full Basquiat on my leather jacket ASAP.
Lauren Spencer-Smith
Singer Lauren Spencer-Smith was feeling lucky in an oversize, bright green streetwear-meets-workwear look.
Cyn Santana
Reality star Cyn Santana wore an orange leather trench coat with a surrealist exposed nipple dress.
