The Best, Coolest, and Most Unexpected Looks From the 2026 VMAs Red Carpet

A Complete Slay Image Credit: LISA O'CONNOR/AFP/Getty Images The Wor$t Girl in America is here and she looks drop-dead gorgeous. Though Slayyyter is often decked out in flannels and trucker hats, she arrived at the VMAs in a glitzy boho-chic gown that complemented her honeyed hair. Tonight, she’s nominated for her first two Moon Persons – Best Dance (for “Dance …”) and Song of the Summer (“Brand New Chanel$”). Keep It Bella Image Credit: Michael Buckner/Penske Media Bella Poarch arrived at the VMAs in a deconstructed ensemble featuring lace, ribbons, and an avant-garde bustle, and topped the look off with an otherworldly updo. The Filipina-American TikTok-sensation-turned-pop-star released her debut album, Picnic At The Cemetery, earlier this month. Queen Chloe Image Credit: LISA O'CONNOR/AFP/Getty Images Chloe Bailey won’t have mercy on us with this jaw-dropping look. The singer and Beyoncé protege’s looked like an Etré Art Deco drawing, modernized by exposing her midriff (and bleaching her brows). Silver Stella Image Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Stella Lefty has been through the internet ringer lately. But for the country-pop artist’s first VMA Awards, where she’s nominated for two Moon People, Lefty decided to keep things pretty elegant. With her hair up in a promlike updo, Lefty chose a silver and white silk dress with a detailed, dripping back that was giving “Love Story” era Taylor Swift. All Eyes on JoJo Image Credit: Monica Schipper/WireImage Beach on top, chic on the bottom. JoJo’s look continued the VMA tradition of showing some skin, with a black studded bra and crystal adorned skirt that dusted the tops of her sky-high platforms. Fresh off the New York Fashion Week circuit, JoJo topped the ensemble with sleek ombré hair. Classic Sienna Image Credit: Michael Buckner/Billboard Sienna Spiro touched down at the 2026 VMAs looking like an Old Hollywood movie star. Given her penchant for classic pop and jazz music, the 20-year-old singer’s vintage aesthetic paired well with her penchant for the past. Outlaw Chic Image Credit: JC Olivera/Variety Orville Peck, who released his new album Mule last week, decided to keep things sleek and country for his turquoise carpet walk. Complete with his signature mask, Peck chose a black cowboy hat and fringed leather jacket for an appropriately outlaw look – but centered it all with a little heart by layering a Keith Haring t-shirt underneath. Raye of Light Image Credit: Michael Buckner/Billboard Vocal powerhouse Raye went for a classic and crowd-pleasing look at the 2026 VMAs. The singer wore a crystallized, scoop neck gown and topped it off with a crimson red lip to match her bob. Later tonight, she’ll lead a George Michael tribute performance alongside Sombr and Teddy Swims.