Sabrina Carpenter didn’t just attend the VMAs—she rewrote the rules of archival glam, channeling Cher’s disco legacy with a fringe-heavy Mackie moment that glittered like rebellion.
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards may have crowned multiple winners, but only one name echoed through the UBS Arena with the force of a fashion earthquake: Sabrina Carpenter. Fresh off a viral rain-soaked performance and a Valentino red carpet entrance, Carpenter closed the night with a triple win—and a triple-threat wardrobe that paid homage to pop royalty and disco decadence.
Her final look of the evening, captured post-ceremony while clutching three Moon Person trophies, was a direct pull from Bob Mackie’s Spring 1986 collection. And it wasn’t just vintage—it was visceral. The dress, a beaded dance number originally designed for stage movement, shimmered with multi-color sequins arranged in floral bursts across the bodice. Below, a side-swept skirt of black beaded fringe cascaded like liquid rhythm, catching every flash of light and camera click. It was Mackie at his most kinetic, and Carpenter wore it like armor.
The silhouette was classic Mackie: fitted through the torso, with a dramatic fringe hem that flirted with asymmetry. The sequins—dense, iridescent, and floral—evoked a kind of psychedelic garden party, while the fringe added motion and mischief. The color palette danced between jewel tones and noir, a visual echo of Cher’s own stagewear from the mid-’80s. No accessories competed with the dress’s maximalism; instead, Carpenter let the garment speak in full sentences.
Hair was swept into soft, voluminous waves—a nod to Studio 54’s heyday—while makeup leaned into a peachy glow with a subtle smoky eye. Her pose, statuesque yet playful, suggested someone who knows she’s not just wearing fashion history—she’s rewriting it. The mood? Disco revival meets Gen Z precision. And the lighting, courtesy of the VMAs’ high-gloss setup, turned every mirror appliqué into a spotlight.
This wasn’t Carpenter’s first Mackie moment. At the 2024 VMAs, she wore a vintage sequin dress once donned by Madonna. But this year’s choice—Cher’s actual performance piece—felt more intimate, more daring. It wasn’t just a nod to the past; it was a reclamation. In an era where celebrity style often leans into algorithmic sameness, Carpenter’s look was a reminder that fashion history still has teeth.
Ariana Grande stole the spotlight at the 2025 MTV VMAs in a custom Fendi polka-dot peplum gown, channeling ’80s glamour with a modern twist. Discover the styling secrets, beauty details, and why this red carpet look is a fashion masterpiece. Get inspired by her Jimmy Choo platforms, Swarovski accessories, and iconic ponytail—plus, see all four of her VMAs outfits!
Outfit Focus: The Fendi Gown’s Design and Details
Gown Custom Fendi strapless column gown in black-and-white polka dots, inspired by a 1980s Silvia Venturini Fendi design. The sweetheart neckline and blush peplum waist added a feminine contrast to the bold pattern.
Shoes Jimmy Choo Max Platform Sandals in black satin, elongating her silhouette and adding a modern edge.
Accessories Swarovski stud earrings and a matching polka-dot hair bow, tying the look together with subtle sparkle.
Hair Signature sleek ponytail, worn lower than usual, with a playful polka-dot bow for a whimsical touch.
Makeup Soft, pink-toned aesthetic with winged eyeliner, rosy cheeks, and glossy lips—classic Ariana with a romantic twist.
The gown’s silhouette was a nod to the ’80s, but the execution was pure 2025. The polka dots, a recurring motif in Grande’s recent style, felt fresh and bold, while the peplum waist added a sculptural element that elevated the dress from retro to revolutionary. Law Roach’s decision to pair the gown with Jimmy Choo platforms and minimal jewelry let the dress—and Grande’s star power—shine.
Styling Cohesion: How the Look Came Together
Ariana Grande’s VMAs look was more than just a dress; it was a carefully curated ensemble that told a story. The polka dots, a pattern often associated with youthful playfulness, were given a sophisticated update through the gown’s structured silhouette and luxurious fabric. The blush peplum waist, a detail inspired by Silvia Venturini’s original design, softened the boldness of the black-and-white print, creating a harmonious balance between drama and elegance.
The matching hair bow was a stroke of genius, tying Grande’s signature ponytail into the overall aesthetic. It was a small detail, but one that reinforced the look’s cohesion and playful spirit. Meanwhile, the Jimmy Choo platforms added height and a modern edge, ensuring the outfit felt current rather than costume-like.
As for the beauty look, Grande’s soft pink makeup and glossy lips complemented the gown’s romantic vibe, while her winged eyeliner added a touch of her iconic drama. The result was a look that felt both nostalgic and fresh—a perfect reflection of Grande’s own evolution as an artist.
The Cultural Impact: Why This Look Matters
Ariana Grande’s VMAs gown wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a celebration of heritage and innovation. By reimagining a vintage Fendi design, Grande and Roach paid homage to the brand’s rich history while making it their own. The polka dots, a pattern that has seen a resurgence in recent seasons, felt particularly relevant, echoing the playful yet polished aesthetic that defines Grande’s current era.
The look also underscored Grande’s ability to command attention without relying on overt sexuality—a refreshing shift in an industry often dominated by skin-baring trends. Instead, she let the craftsmanship of the gown and the precision of the styling speak for itself, proving that true star power lies in confidence and creativity.
Get the Look: How to Channel Ariana’s VMAs Glamour
Want to bring a touch of Ariana’s VMAs magic into your own wardrobe? Here’s how:
- Embrace the Polka Dot : Look for a black-and-white polka-dot dress with a structured silhouette. A peplum waist or sweetheart neckline will add a feminine touch.
- Play with Proportions : Pair your dress with platform sandals to elongate your legs and add a modern edge.
- Add a Playful Accessory : A matching hair bow or statement earrings will tie the look together.
- Keep Makeup Soft : Opt for rosy cheeks, winged eyeliner, and glossy lips to channel Grande’s romantic glamour.
For more celebrity style inspiration, explore the latest trends on celebrity style .
Sabrina Carpenter stunned at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards in a bold Valentino Fall 2025 gown—featuring red sequin-embellished lace and a dramatic lilac marabou boa—proving she’s evolved from “pop flash” to fashion fixture. Her unapologetic red carpet moment, complete with Tiffany & Co. diamonds, redefined celebrity style for the season.
The first time I heard Sabrina Carpenter declare, “Deal with me, bitches,” at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, I knew we were witnessing more than just a red carpet moment—we were seeing a pop star rewrite her narrative. After a summer of headlines questioning her “sexytime” image-making and the provocative cover of Man’s Best Friend , Carpenter could’ve played it safe. Instead, she stepped onto the UBS Arena carpet in a Valentino Fall 2025 gown that fused Old Hollywood glamour with unapologetic edge—a masterclass in how to turn controversy into couture.
Carpenter’s look was a study in contrasts, starting with the gown itself: a semi-sheer, floor-length dress adorned with intricate red sequin embroidery that hugged her frame like a second skin. The fabric, a blend of tulle and lace, had the ethereal quality of Parisian couture—think the delicate handiwork of a atelier where every stitch tells a story. The high neckline and long sleeves added a touch of modesty, but the sheer panels (strategically placed to avoid vulgarity) kept it modern, echoing the risk-taking spirit of Italian design houses like Versace in the ’90s.
What elevated the look from “stunning” to “unforgettable” was the lilac marabou boa draped over her shoulders and cascading down her arms. Marabou, that fluffy, retro fabric beloved by divas from Marilyn Monroe to Cher, injected a dose of campy glamour—but here, it wasn’t just a accessory. It was a statement: Carpenter wasn’t hiding from the “controversy” around her; she was leaning into it, turning a potential liability into a bold fashion choice. The boa’s soft lavender hue clashed (in the best way) with the gown’s fiery red, creating a visual tension that demanded attention—much like her music and public persona these days.
Accessories? Minimal but mighty. Tiffany & Co. platinum diamond earrings and ring added a touch of timeless elegance, grounding the look without overshadowing the gown. Her nails, painted in a gradient of OPI shades ( Malaga Wine and Bare My Soul ), and makeup (a smoky eye paired with a nude lip) completed the ensemble—proof that even in maximalist fashion, balance is key.
Styling Cohesion: Where Drama Meets Discipline
Stylist Jared Ellner deserves credit for walking a fine line. The gown alone is a work of art—Valentino’s Fall 2025 collection, which drew inspiration from 19th-century opera and surrealist art, was all about blending tradition with rebellion. Adding the boa could’ve veered into costume territory, but Ellner’s choice to drape it strategically (not just slung over one shoulder, but wrapped around both arms) gave it intentionality. It wasn’t a gimmick—it was a conversation starter.
That said, I’ll admit I agree with the source’s quibble: the neckline and sheer panels did call for an updo. Carpenter’s loose waves, while romantic, got lost against the gown’s intricate details. A sleek chignon or braided crown would’ve highlighted the dress’s architecture, making the look feel even more cohesive. As for the boa? Love the drama, but maybe next time, pair it with a simpler silhouette—let the feathers breathe.
Cultural Impact: From “Pop Flash” to “Here to Stay”
Carpenter’s choice of Valentino is no accident. The Italian house, helmed by Pierpaolo Piccioli, has long been a favorite of stars seeking to merge heritage with edge—think Lady Gaga’s 2019 Met Gala look or Billie Eilish’s recent couture turns. For Carpenter, wearing Valentino signals two things: first, that she’s graduated from “pop flash” to “fashion fixture”; second, that she understands the power of aligning with a brand that values craftsmanship as much as controversy.
Her statement at the VMAs—“Deal with me, bitches”—wasn’t just a clapback to critics. It was a fashion manifesto. In an era where pop stars are often reduced to their image, Carpenter used her outfit to say: I’m not defined by my past, and I’m not afraid to evolve. The red sequins? They’re bold, but not brash. The boa? Campy, but not cheap. Together, they tell a story of growth—one that resonates beyond the red carpet.
The Verdict: Is It Chic? Yes. Is It Unforgettable? Absolutely.
Sabrina Carpenter’s 2025 VMA look isn’t just a dress—it’s a declaration. She took risks (the sheer panels, the boa) and reaped rewards (headlines that talked about her style, not just her controversies). Could it have been tweaked? Sure. But that’s the beauty of fashion: it’s not about perfection, it’s about personality. And Carpenter’s personality? It shines brighter than any sequin.
As we head into awards season, one thing’s clear: Carpenter is here to stay. And if this look is any indication, she’s going to keep giving us reasons to talk—whether it’s about her music, her style, or her unapologetic spirit.
3 Takeaways from Sabrina’s VMA Look
- Risk = Reward : Carpenter proved that leaning into controversy (with style) can turn critics into fans.
- Boas Aren’t Just for Divas : The lilac marabou added drama, but balance is key—next time, pair it with a simpler silhouette.
- Valentino = Legacy : Wearing a heritage brand signals growth—Carpenter’s not just a pop star, she’s a fashion force.
