2023 VMAs Red Carpet Recap
2023 VMAs Red Carpet Recap
By: Brooklyn Hoffmann
The first MTV Video Music Awards premiered in 1984 and has since been the venue for many iconic pop culture moments, including some of the most well-known fashion cameos in history. The 2023 VMAs were held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on September 12 and hosted by Nicki Minaj for the second consecutive year. With performances by Demi Lovato, Olivia Rodrigo, Lil Wayne, Doja Cat, and many more, this year’s VMAs were highly anticipated. While the awards show is all about the artists’ music and videos, the red carpet is focused on fashion.
Taylor Swift, lovingly referred to as the music industry personified, took a break from the colorful array of sequins she has been donning on the Eras Tour to slip into something a little more daring. Wearing a black halter-neck Versace gown, Swift took home 9 of the 11 awards she was nominated for. The dress featured a thigh-high slit and gold buttons down the front. Swift paired the gown with a layering of necklaces, finishing off the look in true Reputation style. Donatella Versace shared various Instagram photos of the singer in her design, writing “I couldn’t have been prouder to design this dress for your gorgeous entrance to the VMAs tonight…You’re already winning big tonight!” Swift indeed won big as she was awarded artist of the year and album of the year, leaving her with the second highest number of VMAs in history.
Selena Gomez went all out, wearing a romantic Oscar de la Renta floral thread work look styled by Erin Walsh. The red dress had an asymmetrical hemline with a thigh-high slit. The look was paired with strappy red Jimmy Choo sandals and Pasquale Bruni jewelry.
Colombian superstar Shakira joined Taylor Swift in wearing Versace. Arriving in a chainmail gown with a bare back, Shakira later changed into a more revealing look featuring cutouts, a high slit, and bright metallic safety pins – one of the brand’s iconic signatures.
Some of the biggest names in the music industry paired with some of the most well-known designers to give us an impromptu fashion show at this year’s VMAs, adding to the entertainment on one of music’s most important nights.
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