Celebrity Style
Who could possibly forget 2017’s bubblegum pink latex jumpsuit?
Since Nicki Minaj made her debut at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2010, one thing is for sure: There’s simply nobody doing it quite like her. Seldom one for subtlety, the rap star’s style is anything but understated. She’s all about loud colors, even louder prints, and eye-catching embellishments. At the 2022 VMAs, she donned two different hot pink ensembles: a floor-dusting gown, and also a miniskirt.
Minaj, who served as co-host this year and performed a medley of hits, has been serving the Barbiecore aesthetic for years — see her 2017 VMAs ’fit — way before Valentino's fall ’22 collection and stills from Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie movie leaked. The 39-year-old has consistently rocked the color, and has even referred to herself by the doll’s name.
Even when she goes for a more muted palette, like black or navy, you can invariably count on her look to be equipped with strategic cut-outs and/or covered in sequins or glitter.
Below, reminisce on Minaj's best VMAs outfits through the years, from red-carpet rhinestones to on-stage umpiring.
Full-On Barbie, 2022
When Minaj hit the stage to receive Best Hip-Hop Artist at the 2022 awards, she went full-on Barbie in a dramatic hot pink satin Dolce & Gabbana gown, featuring an embellished bodice, and accessorized with matching hair, nails, shoes, and plenty of bling, naturally.
Sweet In Watermelon Pink, 2022
The same evening, she dazzled in another pink look during her Vanguard Award acceptance speech. She paired a holographic diamond cut-out top with a flouncy pink ombre miniskirt, adorned with pearls. She completed the ensemble with a baby pink latex bow and pink-laced black combat boots.
A Sheer Swimsuit Gown, 2018
She chose a neutral-toned number with a sheer tulle skirt for the 2018 VMAs. The Off-White creation, which she styled with clear PVC sandals, looked like something of a hybrid swimsuit gown. It’s the knee-length pigtails for me, though.
Bubblegum Latex, 2017
Who could possibly forget her bubblegum pink latex jumpsuit back in 2017? An assortment of shiny jewelry and tricolor platform booties featuring a cut-out vamp design pulled the look together.
An Uber-Chic Umpire, 2017
Later that night, the rapper performed in a glossy referee-inspired ’fit, designed with a bold plunging front, a pleated micro miniskirt, and thigh-high boots. Love the whistle as an added touch, personally.
Regal In Royal Blue, 2016
In 2016, she opted for a semi-sheer navy blue gown with sultry cut-out detailing. Please note her clutching the backdrop as she poses. She, and this dress, are everything.
Going For Gold, 2015
Minaj’s golden gown at the 2015 awards was particularly glamorous. The metallic sequin-covered dress was, again, quite sheer, with a plunging neckline and intricate embroidery.
All Things Anaconda, 2014
During her Anaconda era (courtesy of her 2014 album, The Pinkprint), Minaj hit the MTV red carpet in a silver-and-gold, animal-print sequinned dress, paired with off-white platform pumps.
A New Take On The LBD, 2014
After the show, Minaj posed for photos in this black velvet number, which she styled with glittery black and white peep-toe stiletto booties. It's giving “Feeling Myself.”
A Rhinestoned Catsuit, 2012
At the 2012 VMAs, Minaj rocked a black lace catsuit featuring a red rhinestone design, which mimicked the appearance of a corset and ran the length of her legs. She finished the look with fishnets, embellished platforms, a highlighter-yellow wig, and a BDSM-inspired top hat.
Kaleidoscopic Can-Do, 2011
For the 2011 awards, she arrived in this Harajuku-inspired look, complete with a pre-pan face mask and ice cream cone necklace. One-of-a-kind vibes, ya know?
