Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress and More: The Riskiest Looks at the MTV VMAs

Hello there, I’m Jordan Collins, and I’ll be your guide through the most daring fashion moments at the MTV VMAs. I suppose it’s time to fill you in on the details, so let’s get started.
The MTV Video Music Awards have always been a platform for celebrities to push the boundaries of fashion and make a statement. One of the most iconic moments in VMA history is Lady Gaga’s infamous meat dress, which she wore to the 2010 ceremony. The dress, made from actual meat, was a bold statement that sparked a lot of conversation. Styled with black fishnet tights, a white and turquoise colored wig, and shoes and a hat made from meat, it was a look that certainly turned heads.
But Lady Gaga wasn’t the only one to take fashion risks at the VMAs. Doja Cat, for instance, wore a web-inspired gown by Monse to the 2023 ceremony, which left very little to the imagination. The “Woman” singer’s bold look was certainly a head-turner, and it’s clear that she’s not afraid to take fashion risks.
The VMAs’ tradition of out-there fashion goes back beyond the 21st century. In 1984, Madonna donned a lacy, white bustier dress with a tulle skirt covered in white hearts, elbow-length lace gloves, dramatic star earrings, and a plethora of necklaces. The then-26-year-old finished off her look with a belt reading the words, “Boy Toy.” It’s a look that’s still iconic today and one that has been emulated by many.
Over the years, the VMAs have seen many other daring fashion moments. In 2002, Britney Spears shocked the crowd with an edgy halter dress, lace-up heels, gloves, and a captain hat. The “Stronger” singer was known for her frilly, girly, and glitzy gowns at the time, so this look was a departure from her usual style.
In 2011, Lady Gaga arrived at the show in a larger-than-life ensemble, with the remnants of stuffed animals lined up her legs. The look was certainly fierce and one that will be remembered for years to come.
Other celebrities who have taken fashion risks at the VMAs include Jennifer Lopez, who bared her body in a nearly-naked look at the 2021 ceremony, and Lil’ Kim, who gave new meaning to color coordination in 1998 with her lilac wig, jumpsuit, pasties, and lipstick.
More recently, Harry Styles made a statement at the 2022 ceremony with a massive feathered skirt and matching headpiece by Harris Reed. The look was certainly a bold one, and it’s clear that Styles is not afraid to take fashion risks.
The Disney Channel alum Miley Cyrus came in like a wrecking ball in 2015, letting it all hang out in a bedazzled chrome number. And in 2018, the model Kendall Jenner accessorized her bondage-inspired, red latex bodysuit with a cat mask and whip.
In 2002, Christina Aguilera’s Y2K uniform consisted of barely-there mini skirts, scarves as tops, and page boy-esque hats. And in 2019, the DJ Diplo surprised fans and viewers with his wildly colorful get-up, complete with a patterned suit, matching cowboy hat, and flashy belt buckle.
The No Doubt frontwoman Gwen Stefani’s iconic 1998 style will forever be remembered, and it’s clear that she’s a fashion icon who isn’t afraid to take risks.
As we look forward to this year’s VMAs, it’s clear that the celebrities attending will be taking fashion risks. With nominees like Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Kendrick Lamar, and Rosé, and performers like Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, and J Balvin, it’s sure to be an exciting ceremony.
And now that you’ve been filled in on the details, I hope you’re ready to join the conversation about the riskiest looks at the MTV VMAs.
Glad I could clear that up for you.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! Online
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed