On September 11, some of the music industry’s biggest stars came together for MTV’s Video Music Awards at UBS Arena in Elmont Park to commemorate the best in music, entertainment and fashion. Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, several pop-stars including Chappell Roan, Taylor Swift, Lisa, Katy Perry, and Sabrina Carpenter gave memorable performances and racked up awards.
One of the most notable duos at this year’s VMAs was Taylor Swift and Post Malone, whose hit collaboration song “Fortnight” won many awards, including Video of the Year, Best Collaboration, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Song of the Summer. Other award winners included Benson Boone for his alternative song “Beautiful Things” and Katy Perry for her iconic performance of “Roar.”
The VMAs also saw a variety of live performances. Artists such as Halsey, GloRilla, Shawn Mendes and Camilla Cabello sang and danced to some of their hit songs, while attendees clapped and danced along in their seats. Sabrina Carpenter’s rendition of her new song “Taste” garnered attention for her use of aliens as background dancers, as well as her on-stage outfit change, where she ripped the fringed collar off of her crystal bodysuit. She can be seen in the performance pretending to kiss the aliens in a fictional love triangle.
Carpenter wasn’t the only pop star to debut a new, inventive fashion look. Historically, the VMAs have been an occasion for bold fashion choices full of personality, as demonstrated by Lady Gaga’s infamous “meat dress” at the 2010 awards. A noteworthy outfit that had many fans divided this year was Addison Rae’s all-white ensemble, which featured a dramatically poofy skirt and top. Critics said the shape was odd, and others even questioned why she was invited to the event, as Rae is still predominantly known as an influencer. Taylor Swift’s yellow and black gingham bodice and skirt were also the subject of scrutiny on social media, with fans commenting on its underwhelming simplicity compared to outfits of her past, while others rallied behind the star’s choice of outfit.
This year’s fan favorites included Chappell Roan’s medieval style dress complete with glittering chainmail, as well as Tyla’s bright yellow ripped dress. The k-pop star Lisa’s corset-like dress complete with a sleek hood also received much praise from viewers around the world.
