The Best Looks From The 2023 VMAs, From Cardi B To Olivia Rodrigo

The MTV Video Music Awards has played host to its fair share of ensembles that went down in fashion history. They include, but are not limited to: Madonna’s “Like A Virgin” bridal ensemble in 1984, Lil Kim’s purple nipple pasty ’fit in 1997, and Miley Cyrus’ shimmery bodysuit in 2013 that bore the image of a teddy bear.

Tuesday night’s VMAs were just as memorable — and in fact, its (pink) carpet was arguably the spiciest it’s ever been. Thongs, nipples, and cut-outs (I’m looking at you, Doja Cat) were among the buzzy trends that dominated the music shindig.

Performers Megan Thee Stallion and Karol G both rocked the visible undies trend, flaunting their panties expertly underneath diaphanous gowns. Meanwhile, Doja Cat, who also took the stage, upped the spice level even more when she freed the nipple in an utterly see-through webbed dress.

Olivia Rodrigo went for high glamour and slipped into a sparkly number, while Demi Lovato leaned into the avant garde in a structured trench with pointy, oversized shoulders. The biggest surprise of the night, however, was a Taylor Swift appearance. She served major Reputation-era vibes in a Versace look that was equipped with the highest slit.

Behold, the best looks of the night.

Taylor Swift

With that thigh-high slit, Taylor Swift’s Versace LBD was all spice.

Cardi B

Really committing to her beauty look, Cardi B wore a silver gown covered entirely in hair clips.

Selena Gomez

If Selena Gomez’s gown looks familiar, it’s because she wore a similar dress for her birthday in July.

Sabrina Carpenter

Underwear as outerwear continued with this bustier-inspired gown, as seen on Sabrina Carpenter.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato brought out their edgier side in a trench with oversize pointed shoulders.

Doja Cat

Ever-the-spicy dresser, Doja Cat freed the nip and exposed her thong in a spider web-inspired number.

Megan Thee Stallion

Only Megan Thee Stallion can balance sleek and cheeky. See: her strapless bustier-style dress, merchandised with the glitziest of diamonds.

Olivia Rodrigo

In a shimmery floor-length number, Olivia Rodrigo’s Old Hollywood ensemble stood out on the carpet.

Anitta

Anitta’s ensemble had several statement details: mismatched shoulder dusters, a diaphanous skirt, and a massive keyhole cut-out that exposed her belly button. Spicy.

Bebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha took a page out of Julia Fox’s playbook and rocked a dress with butt cut-outs and a built-in tail.

Karol G

Karol G served another gauzy number on the carpet, complete with a matching coat.

Dove Cameron

Serving goth vibes (as always), Dove Cameron wore a shimmering black gown that perfectly coordinated with her raven strands.

Shakira

There’s one thing you know about Shakira: She’s going to bring the drama, and this chainmail dress is just the latest example.

Madelyn Cline

Madelyn Cline positively glowed in a silky (and gauzy) champagne dress.