The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) red carpet was not just a display of contemporary fashion but also a nostalgic celebration of iconic style moments from the past. This year, celebrities took the opportunity to pay homage to some of the most memorable looks in music and pop culture history, infusing the red carpet with a blend of tribute and throwback. Here’s a look at some of the standout style tributes and throwbacks that made the 2024 VMAs red carpet truly unforgettable.
1. Taylor Swift Channels the ‘Fearless’ Era
Taylor Swift, known for her ever-evolving style, took a trip down memory lane by channeling her ‘Fearless’ era. She appeared in a glamorous gold mini dress reminiscent of her early career. Swift’s choice paid homage to her roots and the iconic looks that defined her early years in the spotlight. Her hairstyle, with soft curls and a high ponytail, was a perfect nod to the 2000s pop fashion that characterized her earlier music videos.
2. Doja Cat’s Vintage Glam
Doja Cat turned heads with her homage to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her red carpet ensemble featured a stunning, floor-length gown with intricate beadwork and a dramatic train, reminiscent of classic Hollywood starlets. Doja Cat’s bold makeup and vintage hairstyle, complete with finger waves, completed the look, making it clear that she was paying tribute to an era that defined elegance and sophistication.
3. Halsey’s Tribute to ‘90s Rave Culture
Halsey made a statement with a vibrant, neon-colored outfit inspired by the ‘90s rave scene. The outfit featured a mix of bright, fluorescent colors and bold patterns that were a direct nod to the rave fashion of that era. Her accessories, including chunky neon jewelry and a pair of platform boots, were perfectly in sync with the throwback theme, celebrating a time when rave culture was at its peak.
4. Kylie Jenner’s Retro Glamour
Kylie Jenner embraced retro glamour with a look inspired by the fashion of the 1950s. She wore a classic A-line dress with a full skirt and fitted bodice, adorned with floral prints. Her hairstyle, a voluminous updo with soft curls, and her vintage-inspired makeup added to the nostalgic feel of her appearance. Jenner’s choice highlighted the timeless appeal of 1950s fashion and demonstrated how classic styles can be reinterpreted for modern red carpets.
5. Billie Eilish Honors Punk Rock Legends
Billie Eilish paid tribute to the punk rock era with her edgy, rebellious look. Her outfit featured a leather jacket with bold graphics, paired with ripped jeans and combat boots, channeling the punk rock style of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Eilish’s makeup and hairstyle, with her trademark green highlights and smudged eyeliner, completed the look and honored the punk rock legends who paved the way for her own unique style.
6. Camila Cabello’s ‘2000s Pop Star’ Revival
Camila Cabello brought back the pop star style of the early 2000s with a look that echoed the fashion of that era. Her ensemble featured a glittery, crop top paired with low-rise jeans and a chunky belt, reminiscent of the outfits worn by pop icons of the early 2000s. Cabello’s hairstyle, with its playful waves and butterfly clips, was a perfect nod to the trends that once defined the pop music scene.
7. Lil Nas X’s Tribute to Classic Hip-Hop
Lil Nas X turned the red carpet into a homage to classic hip-hop fashion with his bold, oversized outfit. His look, featuring a brightly colored tracksuit and flashy accessories, paid tribute to the vibrant and expressive style of hip-hop icons from the ‘80s and ‘90s. His playful attitude and confident demeanor highlighted the enduring influence of classic hip-hop fashion on today’s style.
8. Rihanna’s Retro Chic
Rihanna’s appearance was a nod to the chic, high-fashion looks of the ‘70s. She dazzled in a sleek, satin jumpsuit with a high collar and wide-legged trousers. Her hairstyle, a retro blowout with voluminous curls, and her elegant accessories completed the look, showcasing how classic styles can be reimagined with a modern twist.
9. Janelle Monáe Channels Disco Fever
Janelle Monáe embraced the disco fever of the ‘70s with her sparkling, sequined outfit that captured the essence of the disco era. Her look, complete with a shimmering jumpsuit and platform heels, was a vibrant tribute to the disco fashion that dominated the dance floors of the past. Monáe’s retro hairstyle and bold makeup enhanced the nostalgic feel of her ensemble.
10. Zendaya’s ‘Classic Hollywood’ Elegance
Zendaya dazzled with an elegant gown that paid tribute to the classic Hollywood glamour of the 1950s. The dress featured a sophisticated silhouette with a modern twist, showcasing Zendaya’s ability to merge classic style with contemporary fashion. Her timeless makeup and vintage-inspired hairstyle completed the look, making her a standout on the red carpet.