Chloe Bailey Dazzles at MTV VMAs in Sheer Ensemble

Chloe Bailey captured attention at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards with a daring, ultra-sheer dress that offered a glimpse of her back and cleavage. The 28-year-old artist, known for her work as part of Chloe x Halle, presented a memorable fashion moment at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

The backless gown featured strategically placed mirror work over its translucent fabric. Cutouts at the sides accentuated her midriff, while a higher cut showcased her cleavage. Bailey complemented the look with glittering rings and a sophisticated updo reminiscent of 1960s style.

Beyond the fashion, the evening's programming highlighted significant achievements. Taylor Swift was slated to receive the inaugural Artist Director Honors, a new award celebrating artists who have demonstrated a sustained directorial vision in their music videos. This accolade was expected to mark Swift's break from Beyoncé for the record of most VMA wins, as both artists entered the ceremony tied with 30 awards each. Beyoncé did not have nominations for this year's awards.

The Artist Director Honors recognizes artists who have pushed creative boundaries and developed a distinct directorial voice. Swift has directed numerous music videos, including those for "The Fate of Ophelia," "Opalite," "The Man," "cardigan," "willow," "All Too Well: The Short Film," "Anti-Hero," "Bejeweled," "Fortnight (feat. Post Malone)," "I Can See You (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)," "Karma (feat. Ice Spice)," and "Lavender Haze."

Meanwhile, Madonna led the nominations with 11 potential wins, closely followed by Swift with nine. Both artists were nominated for the coveted Video of the Year award, with Swift's "The Fate of Ophelia" competing against Madonna's "Confessions II (The Film)."

Maddona's "Confessions II (The Film)" was also nominated in several other categories, including best direction, cinematography, visual effects, editing, choreography, art direction, and dance video of the year. The artist, who performed at the first VMAs in 1984, has accumulated 19 VMA wins over her career. To tie Swift and Beyoncé's record, she would need to win in every category for which she was nominated this year.

Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter were tied for third place with seven nominations each. Other artists with multiple nominations included Bruno Mars, PinkPantheress, and Zara Larsson. The Artist of the Year category featured Madonna, Swift, Grande, Carpenter, Bruno Mars, and Morgan Wallen.

Madonna and Carpenter also received a joint nomination for Song of the Year for their collaboration "Bring Your Love." Other nominees in that category included Ella Langley, BTS, Raye, Olivia Dean, and HUNTR/X.

Maddona's recent critical acclaim for her album "Confessions II" has contributed to the buzz surrounding her VMA performance. The album, a sequel to her 2005 hit "Confessions on a Dance Floor," was released on July 3.