Biggest Fashion & Music Moments from the 2025 MTV VMAs

Here are some of the standout fashion moments from the 2025 MTV VMAs red carpet:

1. Doja Cat’s Theatrical 80’s Frenzy

The night kicked off with Doja Cat with an 80s-themed spectacle on the red carpet and the stage. She showcased campy glam with theatrical flair from her Balmain dress, platform heels, and gypsy-chic hair. A surreal dreamscape covered the stage that included a cameo from Kenny G, and featured a sculptural Jeremy Scott mini dress with Louboutin heels. It was described as a blend of elegance and punk, as described by her stylist, Brett Alan Nelson, tuned to her persona.

2.  Sabrina Carpenter’s Glam-Pop Power Play

The night’s most memorable fashion statements were delivered by Sabrina, who first arrived in a sheer red lace Valentino gown with a purple feather boa, then transforming onstage in a Britney Spears-inspired, bedazzled fringe halter-bra and sequin hot pants, complete with a rain-soaked finale and drag ensemble nodding to Spears; iconic performances. She also wore gemstone-studded nails that are already becoming a fall trend. She walked away with major awards, which include Best Pop Artist, Best Album, and Best Visual Effects.

3.  Mariah Carey’s Diamond Diva Return

Mariah Carey, returning to MTV after a long time, received the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, wearing over 270 carats of diamonds valued at $10 million. Her look was a combination of LEVUMA Rosee Eternelle diamond necklace, chandelier earrings, and glamourous performance attire marked by a gold rhinestone romper and knee-high boots. She switched to a leather minidress and bomber jacket at the afterparty.

4.  Lady Gaga’s Gothic Ballroom ‘Mayhem’

The glittering night was dominated by Gaga, who took home four awards, including Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration. She performed a pre-recorded, theatrical sequence from MSG, having joined from her ongoing Mayhem Ball tour that shifted from “Abracadabra” to “The Dead Dance.” She delivered a gothic ballroom performance having dressed in a Victorian-inspired white grown and doll-like makeup that critics dubbed haunting and hypnotic-one of the most unforgettable moments of the night.

5.  Ricky Martin’s Nostalgic Comeback

Ricky Martin is making a comeback after twenty years since his last appearance, returned with electrifying energy and received the Latin Icon Award. He performed “Livin’ la Vida Loca” in true energetic style, leaving his sequin-studded icy suit for casual stagewear and ending with a stylish red-carpet look: a gray flowy shirt, charm necklaces, and pure charisma.

6.  Yungblud’s Ozzy Tribute and Cultural Shout-Outs

Yungblud delivered a heartfelt tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, rocking the stage with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry. The late MTV VJ Ananda Lewis was honoured by Busta Rhymes while accepting the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, celebrating her cultural impact and legacy.

7.  Rose’s Emotional Win

Rose, the K-pop artist, scored the Song of the Year award for her track “APT,” delivering a heartfelt speech and growth narrative reflecting both personal evolution and global resonance.