From jaw-dropping couture to internet-sparking risks, the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet gave fans everything they craved — statement outfits, viral transformations, and plenty of pop culture buzz. Here’s a look back at the most unforgettable fashion moments of the night.
Ariana Grande
Grande opened the evening with a retro-meets-modern black gown covered in playful white polka dots and finished with a dramatic tiered peplum skirt. Later, she switched to full Hollywood glamour, stepping on stage in a shimmering black gown with oversized tulle shoulders and intricate beadwork. But it was her final change — a dreamy white halter-neck tulle mini dress — that stole the spotlight as she accepted her Moon Person award.
Sabrina Carpenter
Carpenter lit up the carpet in a sheer, beaded red lace gown paired with a lavender feather stole. The bold, body-skimming silhouette drew instant comparisons online, with fans calling it everything from “Jessica Rabbit vibes” to “modern Dolly Parton glam.” Inside the show, she stunned again in a sequin corset dress bursting with color, florals, and a daring neckline — playful yet powerful.
Tate McRae
McRae’s daring sheer white gown with dramatic cutouts and a flowing chiffon train sparked plenty of chatter. With its twisted bralette top and visible underlayers, it was a high-risk, high-reward look. While some applauded the boldness, critics online were quick with jabs, comparing it to a “DIY bedsheet moment.”
Taylor Momsen
Momsen leaned fully into her rocker roots with a black leather skirt-and-bralette combo, layered silver chains, smudgy eyeliner, and towering platforms. It was gritty, unapologetic, and pure Taylor — reminding everyone she dresses for the stage as much as the red carpet.
Ricky Martin
Martin brought casual cool to the carpet in a mint silk shirt left open to reveal tattoos and layered jewelry. Social media immediately lit up with comments — some swooning, others joking about his blouse choice. Later, he polished things up in a sleek sleeveless black top as he proudly posed with his Moon Person.
Lady Gaga
Gaga proved once again why she’s a red carpet legend. She stunned in a sculptural black-and-violet gown overflowing with ruffles from neck to toe, paired with lace gloves and a crimson flower crown. It was dramatic, dark, and unmistakably Gaga.
Jessica Simpson
Simpson commanded attention in a structured black gown featuring sheer panels, sculptural lines, and tulle off-the-shoulder sleeves. With her high ponytail and sparkling accessories, she struck the perfect blend of power and elegance.
Doja Cat
Doja brought the fun as always, first rocking a pastel harlequin mini dress covered in pink embellishments, paired with bold yellow platforms and a mic-shaped clutch. Later, she turned into a high-fashion anti-hero in a sculptural black mini with razor-sharp edges, sheer tights, and a platinum bob. Two completely different looks — and both unforgettable.
From couture drama to internet-breaking risks, the 2025 VMAs red carpet delivered everything fans love: bold fashion, viral moments, and stars reminding us why this night is one of the year’s biggest style stages.