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The Express Gazette
Monday, September 28, 2026

Stars Shine in Black at the 2026 MTV VMAs

Taylor Swift, Teyana Taylor, and Charli XCX lead the best-dressed list with bold, dark ensembles.

Culture & Entertainment • 2 hours ago
Stars Shine in Black at the 2026 MTV VMAs

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet saw a strong trend towards witchy black ensembles, with several stars embracing the dramatic aesthetic.

Teyana Taylor stood out in a feather-trimmed, floor-sweeping gown by Zuhair Murad Couture. Charli XCX opted for a vampiric look with a velvet crop top and matching sheer skirt from Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.

Corsetry also made a significant impact. Taylor Swift commanded attention in a sparkling, semi-sheer gown from Tamara Ralph Couture, complete with intricate lacing. "Love Island USA" alum Olandria wore a corseted leather mermaid dress, while "Summer House" star Ciara Miller sported a leather bra top and low-rise pants.

Pearls emerged as another favored embellishment. Ella Bright paired her waist-cinching vintage Roberto Cavalli dress with a multi-strand pearl choker. Raye graced the carpet in a glamorous Georges Hobeika Couture gown adorned with delicate pearl drops.

Other notable attendees included PinkPantheress, who wore Nina Ricci, and Ella Bright, who showcased an archival Roberto Cavalli design.

Teyana Taylor in a black feathered and sheer gown at the MTV Video Music Awards.

Charli XCX in a black velvet crop top with sheer midriff and matching long skirt at the MTV Video Music Awards.

Raye wearing a sheer, silver and pearl-beaded gown with a draped neckline on the red carpet.

Ella Bright attends the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).

PinkPantheress attends the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).

Olandria Carthen attending the MTV Video Music Awards.

Ciara Miller at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards.


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