Taylor Swift Leads Glamorous Fashion Parade at 2026 MTV VMAs
Swift, nominated for nine awards, dazzled in a shimmering gown while Paris Hilton and JoJo also turned heads on the red carpet.
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards saw music's brightest stars descend upon the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with the red carpet serving as a showcase for daring fashion. Taylor Swift, a frontrunner with nine nominations, captured attention in a striking Tamara Ralph Couture ensemble. The figure-hugging design featured a halter-neck black top with a sheer back, complemented by a sparkling silver skirt. Swift arrived without NFL star husband Travis Kelce, who had a game earlier that day.
Swift is also slated to receive the inaugural Artist Director Honors during the ceremony, recognizing artists who have pushed creative boundaries. Her appearance follows the recent release of the deluxe edition of her 12th studio album, "The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore."
Other notable attendees made bold fashion statements. Paris Hilton shimmered in a silver mini dress, accompanied by her sister Nicky Hilton. JoJo embraced a daring look, showcasing her midriff in a tiny bra top and a long skirt, accessorized with chunky silver jewelry.
Chloe Bailey, Teyana Taylor, and Normani also impressed with their red carpet attire. Bailey donned a bedazzled silver gown, while Oscar nominee Taylor opted for a sultry black lace gown by Zuhair Murad Couture. Normani presented a striking figure in a dark metallic gown with intricate floral embellishments.
Charli XCX displayed her abs in a black crop top and matching skirt. Model Haley Kalil wore a shimmering silver Marc Bouwer gown, and British singer-songwriter Raye sparkled in a plunging Georges Hobeika Couture gown. Bebe Rexha stepped out in a daring black lace mini dress, and "Love Island USA" personality Olandria sported a lace-up brown leather gown.
Madonna, who secured a leading 11 nominations, narrowly beat out Swift for the most nods. The two are set to compete for Video of the Year, with Swift nominated for "The Fate of Ophelia" and Madonna for "Confessions II (The Film)." Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter followed with seven nominations each.
Madonna's nominations span categories such as best direction, cinematography, and visual effects for "Confessions II (The Film)." She has a strong VMA history, having won 19 awards throughout her career.
Swift has the opportunity to break her tie with Beyoncé for the most VMA wins ever, currently at 30 awards each.
Other performers and attendees included Dave Grohl, who made a rare appearance with his wife Jordyn Blum, and Keltie Knight, who sported a cheetah print mini dress. Rock royalty from Nirvana also reunited on the red carpet.
