The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards were a spectacle of fashion, with celebrities showcasing daring and glamorous ensembles that captivated audiences worldwide. From sheer gowns to vintage corsets, the red carpet was alive with creativity and bold choices. Here’s a curated list of the top 15 looks that stole the spotlight.
1. Doja Cat – ’80s Glam Meets Pop Art
Doja Cat made a striking entrance in a pastel Balmain mini dress adorned with 85 carats of Chopard diamonds. Her ensemble, reminiscent of ’80s glam, was complemented by platform heels and a crystal lipstick-shaped clutch by Judith Leiber, which she playfully used during her performance.
- Why it works: The fusion of retro elements with modern accessories created a unique and eye-catching look.
- Shop the Look: Pastel mini dresses | Statement jewelry
2. Sabrina Carpenter – Valentino Elegance
Sabrina Carpenter turned heads in a sheer red Valentino lace gown paired with a lavender feather boa, exuding Hollywood glamour. The combination of delicate lace and bold feathers made for a memorable fashion statement.
- Why it works: The unexpected colour contrast and luxurious textures made a memorable statement.
- Shop the Look: Red lace gowns | Feather accessories
3. Ariana Grande – Vintage Fendi
Ariana Grande embraced retro vibes in a polka-dot Fendi strapless peplum gown, accessorised with a matching scarf in her iconic ponytail. The ensemble was both playful and sophisticated, showcasing her timeless style.
- Why it works: The playful polka dots and vintage silhouette offered a fresh take on classic glamour.
- Shop the Look: Polka dot dresses | Vintage-inspired accessories
4. Tate McRae – Sheer Sophistication
Tate McRae led the sheer dress trend in a custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin gown, blending red carpet elegance with a touch of bachelorette party fun. Her beauty look embraced a ‘90s sun-kissed supermodel vibe, with soft brows, glowing skin, and tousled hair.
- Why it works: The nautical theme and bold footwear added a unique flair to his ensemble.
- Shop the Look: Nautical-inspired outfits | Platform heels
5. Conan Gray – Sailor Chic
Conan Gray sported a sailor-themed Erik Charlotte look with sky-high boots, showcasing a playful yet polished aesthetic. The ensemble was a nod to nautical fashion, with a modern twist.
- Why it works: The nautical theme and bold footwear added a unique flair to his ensemble.
- Shop the Look: Puffy sleeve tops | Platform boots
6. Ciara – Bomber Jacket Twist
Ciara turned heads in a red minidress-bomber jacket hybrid by Schiaparelli, paired with PVC Gianvito Rossi heels, merging street style with high fashion. The combination of casual and couture elements created a dynamic look.
- Why it works: The fusion of casual and couture elements created a dynamic look.
- Shop the Look: Bomber jackets | PVC heels
7. Tyla – Vintage Chanel
Tyla opted for a vintage Chanel corset, accessorised with bold Pandora pieces, embracing a timeless yet edgy style. The corset’s intricate design and the statement jewellery added depth to her ensemble.
- Why it works: The classic corset silhouette paired with modern accessories offered a balanced aesthetic.
- Shop the Look: Vintage corsets | Bold jewelry
8. Sombr – Embroidered Elegance
Sombr donned an intricately embroidered black Valentino suit, showcasing craftsmanship and attention to detail. The detailed embroidery added depth and richness to the classic black suit.
- Why it works: The detailed embroidery added depth and richness to the classic black suit.
- Shop the Look: Embroidered suits | Tailored blazers
9. Katseye – Dolce & Gabbana Coordination
Rising girl group Katseye coordinated in Dolce & Gabbana, presenting a cohesive and stylish group look. The coordinated outfits highlighted their unity and fashion-forward approach.
- Why it works: The coordinated outfits highlighted their unity and fashion-forward approach.
- Shop the Look: Coordinated sets | Luxury accessories
10. Lady Gaga – Gothic Glamour
Lady Gaga closed the night in a hauntingly theatrical Marc Jacobs gothic gown after winning “Artist of the Year.” The dramatic silhouette and dark tones made a bold fashion statement.
- Why it works: The dramatic silhouette and dark tones made a bold fashion statement.
- Shop the Look: Gothic gowns | Statement accessories
11. Lenny Kravitz – Saint Laurent Simplicity
Lenny Kravitz rocked a Saint Laurent suit sans shirt, embracing a minimalist yet edgy look. The simplicity of the outfit highlighted his confident style.
- Why it works: The simplicity of the outfit highlighted his confident style.
- Shop the Look: Checkered blazers | Minimalist accessories
12. Jessica Simpson – Sheer Siriano
Jessica Simpson made a return in a black sheer Christian Siriano dress featuring visible corsetry, showcasing bold fashion choices. The sheer fabric and corset details added a touch of drama.
- Why it works: The sheer fabric and corset details added a touch of drama.
- Shop the Look: Sheer dresses | Corset details
13. Yungblud – Leather Statement
Yungblud shocked with ultra-low leather pants and no shirt, embracing a rebellious fashion statement. The daring outfit captured attention and showcased his bold personality.
- Why it works: The daring outfit captured attention and showcased his bold personality.
- Shop the Look: Leather pants
14. FKA twigs – Burgundy Bandeau
FKA twigs turned heads in a burgundy bandeau and low-rise pants, combining elegance with edge. The rich colour and unique silhouette made a memorable impression.
- Why it works: The rich colour and unique silhouette made a memorable impression.
- Shop the Look: Bandeau tops | Low-rise pants
15. Zara Larsson – Floral Sheer
Zara Larsson opted for a summery sheer minidress with 3D florals, adding a playful touch to the red carpet. The floral details and sheer fabric created a light and airy look.
- Why it works: The floral details and sheer fabric created a light and airy look.
- Shop the Look: Floral dresses | Sheer fabrics
Fashion Trends to Watch from the 2025 VMAs
The 2025 VMAs proved that red carpet fashion continues to be a playground for bold choices, creativity, and unforgettable style. Here are the key trends that emerged:
- Sheer Fabrics: Artists like Tate McRae and Nikki Glaser embraced sheer dresses, blending elegance with a touch of daring allure. These looks are perfect for making a statement while staying sophisticated.
- Bold Accessories: From Doja Cat’s sparkling Chopard diamonds to Tyla’s curated Pandora pieces, statement jewellery proved that the right accessory can elevate any outfit.
- Vintage Revival: Ariana Grande and other stars brought nostalgia to the forefront, incorporating vintage-inspired silhouettes and retro detailing. This trend shows how classic pieces can feel modern again.
- Colour Pop & Metallics: Neon hues, metallic fabrics, and reflective materials dominated the night, ensuring that every step on the red carpet was a showstopper.
- Tailored Suits & Androgynous Styles: Power suits and gender-fluid tailoring made a strong statement on the red carpet, combining confidence with high fashion and offering a fresh take on classic suiting.
Final Thoughts:
The 2025 VMAs weren’t just about the music; they were a masterclass in style. From daring sheer gowns to head-turning accessories and vintage revivals, these trends offer inspiration for anyone looking to infuse boldness and creativity into their wardrobe. Whether you’re planning a night out, a special event, or just love keeping up with red carpet fashion, these looks give you a blueprint for standing out.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you. The outfits and accessories featured are inspired by the celebrities’ 2025 VMA looks and may include a mix of affordable alternatives and higher-end items. They are not exact replicas.