The 2015 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) were chockfull of fierce fashion. From show stopping looks to downright outrageous outfits, this year’s style was just as captivating as the many performances.
Taylor Swift, who was one of the event’s most nominated artists, did not disappoint. She not only debuted her “Wildest Dreams” music video (which has over 38 million views in just over one week) but also dressed to impress with her entire girl squad in tow.
Taking a departure from her usual girly-glam, the starlet rocked a sequined houndstooth crop top and matching high-waisted pants by Ashish. Dramatic and dark winged eyeliner and metallic shadow paired with side swept bangs in a low ponytail completed her edgy ensemble.
TSwift BFF, and infamous Bieber ex, Selena Gomez was also in attendance at last week’s award show. The “Good for You” singer opted for edgy as well, donning a black metallic knit long sleeve dress (that fit like a glove) from the Fall 2015 Calvin Klein Collection and chunky black platforms.
In keeping with the best-dressed Disney alumna appearances, Vanessa Hudgens wowed in a rosy ethereal look that can only be described as total boho chic princess. Her light pink organza gown with a deep-V neckline and allover crystal floral appliqué by Naeem Khan was simply stunning.
Hudgens told ET (who described the star’s style as Coachella couture), “I was like music, what do I love about music? I love going to festivals! How would I dress if I could go to a festival and be the ultra-glam version of myself? So it’s bohemian.”
Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus’ barely-there looks had audiences questioning what happened to Hannah Montana. Her first red carpet outfit was a shocking silver-strapped chandelier-inspired “dress” and silver spiked stiletto thigh-high boots by Atelier Versace. According to ET, “the 22-year-old host stuck to her guns as a psychedelic exhibitionist.” Right. Check out all eleven of her “can’t stop, won’t stop” outfits on Elle.com.
Since glitter, neon and a lot of flesh seemed to rule the night, take a look back at this year’s biggest hits and misses at their first VMA appearances and remember tamer times.
Taylor Swift
Then: In a cutesy strapless lavender dress by Kaufman Franco (2008)
Now: In an edgy sequined houndstooth crop top and high-waisted pants by Ashish (2015)
Selena Gomez
Then: In a floor-sweeping silver gown with floral detailing by Reem Acra and Baccarat jewelry (2010)
Now: In a black metallic knit long sleeve dress by Calvin Klein Collection (2015)
Vanessa Hudgens
Then: In a patterned lace inset dress by Matthew Williamson and Jimmy Choo heels (2008)
Now: In a light pink organza gown with a deep-V neckline and allover crystal floral appliqué by Naeem Khan (2015)
Miley Cyrus
Then: In a sparkly mini dress by Zac Posen (2008)
Now: In a shocking silver-strapped chandelier-inspired “dress” and silver spiked stiletto thigh-high boots by Atelier Versace (2015)
Kim Kardashian
Then: In a plaid skirt, yellow top and red heels (2008)
Now: In a custom made long sleeve, lace up, satin, safari-esque dark gold dress by Balmain (2015)
Nicki Minaj
Then: In a demure light pink silk vest and trousers by Lura Starr with Versace pumps, Basile & Pape jewelry and her then signature blunt-banged wig in cotton candy pink (2010)
Now: In a sheer gold dress by Labourjoisie and Zoe Chicco jewelry (2015)
Britney Spears
Then: In a “risqué” sheer fur-lined coat and long black skirt (1999)
Now: In a skimpy gold and silver cutout dress by Labourjoisei (2015)
Demi Lovato
Then: In a gray ombré bandage dress by Herve Leger (2008)
Now: In a body-hugging light pink dress with plunging neckline by Nicolas Jebran and Suzanne Kalan jewelry (2015)
And don’t worry! If this year’s jaw dropping (and not necessarily in a good way) ensembles and performances kept you distracted from the night’s actual winners, here is a recap of all the artists who walked away with a moonman at the 2015 VMAs.
Video of the Year: Taylor Swift ft. Kendrick Lamar, “Bad Blood”
Best Male Video: Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars, “Uptown Funk”
Best Female Video: Taylor Swift, “Blank Space”
Best Hip Hop Video: Nicki Minaj, “Anaconda”
Best Pop Video: Taylor Swift, “Blank Space”
Best Rock Video: Fall Out Boy, “Uma Thurman”
Artist to Watch: Fetty Wap, “Trap Queen”
Video with a Social Message: Big Sean ft. Kanye West & John Legend, “One Man Can Change the World”
Video Vanguard Award: Kanye West*
*Yes, the self-proclaimed fashion designer (and potential 2020 presidential candidate) accepted his Lifetime Achievement Award in a khaki-colored sweat suit. Tsk.