Last night, our eyes were glued to our TVs as the MTV VMAs handed out awards for the best of the best in music videos from the past year. We watched as our favorites were awarded and artists performed, all while taking bold fashion risks—because since 1984, the Video Music Awards have presented the opportunity to showcase out-of-the-box fashion moments.
This year, we noticed some consistencies on the runway and were left with some key takeaways: western inspirations are about to dominate fall trends, our romantic goth fall is in full swing, bedroom dressing is going nowhere, and bra tops are dominating both runways and red carpets.
From Ciara Miller serving western realness to Bella Poarch approaching bedroom dressing through a Victorian lens to Teyana Taylor and Charli XCX embracing their inner goth, these are the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet looks that we've deemed the best.
Teyana Taylor
Photo: ShutterstockTeyana Taylor embraced the romantic goth fall in a black sheer Zuhair Murad dress with embellished lace detailing and feathered trim.
PinkPantheress
Photo: ShutterstockPinkPantheress wore a deep red tiered dress with polka dots by Nina Ricci.
Tyla
Photo: ShutterstockTyla brought the bra top trend to the VMA's in a blue snakeskin set by Mowalola.
Charli XCX
Photo: ShutterstockCharli XCX wore a gothic-inspired velvet two-piece set by Saint Laurent. The cropped top featured dramatic puffy sleeves, and the skirt was simple and sleek.
Lisa
Photo: ShutterstockLisa wore a sheer red corseted dress by The Attico and a matching fur coat by Quine Li.
Bella Poarch
Photo: ShutterstockBella Poarch wore Victorian and lingerie-inspired look by Dreaming Eli.
Olandria
Photo: ShutterstockOlandria wore the ManManSkins Crimson Thorn ceremonial corset bodysuit and mermaid skirt.
Ciara Miller
Photo: ShutterstockCiara Miller wore a western-inspired two piece set: brown leather paints with corseted lace-up details and a matching bra tops.
Madisin Rian
Photo: ShutterstockMadisin Rian wore a western-inspired cowhide mini dress with a side train.
Raye
Photo: ShutterstockRaye wore a sheer, shimmery, and embellished gown by Georges Hobeika.
Slayyyter
Photo: ShutterstockSlayyyter wore a beige distressed gown with an asymmetric silhouette and dramatic train detail.
Taylor Swift
Photo: ShutterstockTaylor Swift wore a Tamara Ralph Haute Couture gown consisting of a black bodice and shimmery silver skirt.