The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards delivered another year of show-stopping ensembles, solidifying its reputation for daring fashion. Dubbed a night of ‘Unruly’ Red Carpet’ looks, the VMAs, held at the UBS Arena in New York on September 7, 2025, saw artists like Doja Cat and Sabrina Carpenter leading the charge with bold and theatrical statements, as reported by InStyle. Celebrities embraced a “more-is-more” philosophy, aiming for viral “main character moments” that would dominate social media and influence upcoming trends, according to ELLE Australia.
Top Looks of the Night
The VMAs have become a unique platform where artists can showcase their individuality, often diverging from the more traditional elegance seen at other awards shows. The event consistently pushes sartorial boundaries, and the red carpet choices often influence fashion trends, boost celebrity branding, and generate significant media coverage, as noted by Hypebae.
Doja Cat’s Harlequin Moment
Doja Cat made a striking appearance in a Balmain mini-dress featuring a pastel blue and yellow harlequin print, accentuated with pink embroidery. According to The Daily Front Row, the ensemble was further elevated with Chopard diamond jewelry and towering platform heels. However, it was her lipstick-shaped clutch and the memorable act of applying and biting into actual lipstick on the red carpet that truly captured the night’s attention. This performance art-meets-fashion moment instantly went viral, underscoring the VMAs’ role as a cultural touchstone.
Sabrina Carpenter’s Sheer Glamour
Sabrina Carpenter, celebrated for her “Short n’ Sweet” persona, chose a custom Valentino floor-length gown crafted from sheer red tulle. Hindustan Times reports that the gown was intricately embroidered with a sequined lace motif. Carpenter complemented her look with Tiffany & Co. diamonds and a contrasting lavender maribou-feathered boa, creating a blend of Old Hollywood glamour and contemporary pop-princess eccentricity. Her ensemble perfectly embodied the VMAs’ spirit of bold self-expression.
The Night’s Notable Mentions
Beyond Doja Cat and Sabrina Carpenter, several other attendees contributed to the night’s fashion spectacle. Lady Gaga, known for her avant-garde style, made a statement, while Tate McRae stunned in a custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin gown. Ariana Grande opted for Fendi, and Conan Gray chose Erik Charlotte. Tyla graced the event in vintage Chanel, while Ice Spice represented in Ralph Lauren. Lenny Kravitz rounded out the group in Saint Laurent, each contributing to the event’s reputation for “unruly” and “provocative” style.
The Impact of ‘Unruly’ Red Carpet’ Choices
The fashion choices made at the VMAs extend far beyond the event itself. They play a significant role in shaping upcoming fashion trends and solidifying celebrity brands. The widespread media coverage and public conversation generated by these red carpet moments are invaluable for both the artists and the designers involved. Doja Cat’s viral lipstick moment, for example, served as a powerful illustration of how fashion and performance art can intertwine to create lasting cultural impact.
Conclusion
The 2025 MTV VMAs once again proved to be a pivotal platform for bold fashion statements and memorable moments. From Doja Cat’s theatrical lipstick application to Sabrina Carpenter’s blend of classic glamour and modern pop, the red carpet showcased a diverse range of styles that pushed boundaries and sparked conversation. The event solidified its place as a cultural touchstone where fashion, music, and performance art converge, influencing trends and shaping the landscape of celebrity branding.
