Silver sequins, capes, and bright colors stood out on the 2026 VMAs red carpet.
Snoop Dogg hosted the September 27 ceremony at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater, with Madonna and Taylor Swift among the night’s headline names. Before we get to the outfits, a quick catch-up on the awards and performances that got everyone talking.
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See the full winners list here.
Madonna opened the show and led the winners
Madonna returned for her first VMAs performance since 2003, opening a ceremony she has helped make memorable across decades. It was a fitting way to begin a night that would see her collect more awards than anyone else.
She finished with seven wins, including Artist of the Year and Best Album for Confessions II. “Bring Your Love,” her collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter, also earned a trophy.
BTS took Song of the Year for “Swim,” along with Best K-Pop and Best Group. Sienna Spiro won Best New Artist, while Nirvana received the Video Vanguard Award. Lisa had plenty to celebrate at the 2026 VMAs too. The Blackpink member won Best Pop for “Dream,” taking the award in a category that included Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Olivia Rodrigo, and Tate McRae.
Taylor Swift’s big win came with a thank you to Dolly
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Taylor Swift won Video of the Year for “The Fate of Ophelia” and Best Direction for “Opalite.” She also received the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Honors, adding recognition for her work behind the camera.
Her Video of the Year speech brought the focus to Dolly Parton. Swift dedicated the award to the country legend, calling her “the ultimate showgirl.”
It was a touching acknowledgment of influence on a night devoted to music and its visual storytelling. Between the trophies and the spectacle, there was still space to thank the artists who helped others imagine what they could become.
The tribute performances deserve a replay
Kacey Musgraves honored Parton with a performance of “I Will Always Love You,” giving the evening another moment to celebrate her songwriting. It was a song choice that needed little explanation.
George Michael’s music also received a tribute, with Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims, and Adam Lambert taking part. The lineup brought different voices together around a catalog that continues to reach younger performers.
And then there were the clothes.
The VMAs give artists room to loosen up, get theatrical, and wear something that deserves a second look. These are the outfits we’re saving.
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