MTV Video Music Awards 2025 Best Moments in 30+ Photos

From statement gowns to eyebrow-raising moments, the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet delivered unforgettable looks and major pop culture buzz. Dive into photos of the best moments from the night.

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards brought out a parade of unforgettable red carpet looks, viral-worthy outfit changes, and fashion choices that had social media in a frenzy. Here's a visual rundown of the night's best-dressed, biggest risks, and most talked-about appearances.

Ariana Grande

On the red carpet, Grande turned heads in a structured black gown dotted with white polka dots and topped off with a playful, tiered peplum skirt. The look was retro-inspired yet sharply modern — a dramatic opening to her night.

Later, she brought pure old-Hollywood elegance to the stage in a sparkling black gown with exaggerated tulle shoulder details. Intricate beading and a soft shimmer added just enough drama for her turn as a presenter.

But it was her third look — a white halter-neck tulle mini dress — that truly stole the show. Accepting her Moon Person award, Grande looked every inch the pop princess.

Paris Hilton

Sabrina Carpenter

Carpenter stunned in a sheer red lace gown with intricate beading and a dramatic lavender feather stole. The form-fitting silhouette, high neckline, and bold styling screamed star power.

Social media erupted with praise, with one fan calling it "Jessica Rabbit Core," another declaring, "Baby Dolly Parton vibes," and a third raving, "Best hair in a long time… ❤️" — and honestly? No notes.

Inside, Carpenter switched it up with a second outfit — a sparkling corset dress bursting with multicolored sequins, floral appliqués, and a plunging neckline. A fringe hemline and sharp tailoring gave the look just enough edge to keep it playful but powerful.

Mariah Carey

Tate McRae

McRae made jaws drop in a daring sheer white gown with a flowing chiffon train and dramatic cutouts. The twisted bralette top and visible undergarments beneath the transparent skirt made for a high-risk, high-reward moment.

However, the internet was quick to weigh in with unfiltered takes. One netizen wrote, "I'm bored and it's giving DIY last minute," while another quipped, "girl she wore a bra and panties and a bed sheet and called it a night [sic]."

A third slammed the construction, "I hate the look of the sheer netting right over her wearing underwear and no pants."

Megan Moroney

Taylor Momsen

Momsen roared back onto the VMAs red carpet in a look that was pure rock 'n' roll revival. Wearing a black leather skirt with front slits and a matching bralette, Momsen went full throttle on signature edge.

Layered silver chains, smoky eyes, and towering platform boots drove the look home. It was a reminder that Momsen doesn't just dress for the cameras — she dresses for the stage.

Ricky Martin

Martin brought effortless swagger to the VMAs in a look that blended laid-back cool with red carpet polish. His open mint silk shirt revealed a flash of chest tattoos and layered necklaces, sparking instant internet chatter.

One fan gasped, "Ohhhhkay cleavage," while another joked, "Why is he wearing my mom's blouse?" Either way, Martin had the timeline talking — and that's the point.

Later, he changed into a structured black sleeveless top while posing with his Moon Person trophy. Sleek, confident, and sharp — a winning look to end the night.

Yungblud

Lenny Kravitz

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga reminded everyone why she's a red carpet masterclass. She made a jaw-dropping entrance in a sculptural black and violet gown layered in oversized ruffles from neck to floor.

She topped the look with black lace gloves and a crimson flower crown, giving the entire ensemble a dark, theatrical edge that only the musical icon could pull off.

Jessica Simpson

Jessica Simpson made a powerful appearance in a bold black gown that played with illusion and structure. The sheer mesh, sculpted panels, and crisscross bodice gave the dress an architectural feel, while tulle off-the-shoulder sleeves added just enough drama.

With a high ponytail, sparkling drop earrings, and stacked silver rings, she struck the perfect balance between glamour and attitude. It was a daring choice, and Simpson wore it like a pro.

Doja Cat

Doja Cat did what she always does — steal the show. Her first red carpet look was a pastel harlequin-patterned mini dress decked out in pink embellishments and a deep neckline.

Add towering yellow platforms, voluminous curls, and a mic-shaped clutch, and it was clear — the party had arrived.

Inside, she transformed again — this time into a black sculptural mini dress with a neckline that jutted out from both chest and hips.

Paired with sheer tights, pointed heels, and a razor-sharp blonde bob, she looked like a high-fashion villain in the best way possible. Two looks, two moods — and one unforgettable fashion flex.

Steven Tyler

Frankie Grande

From couture chaos to viral moments, this year's VMAs red carpet delivered exactly what fans came for — fashion worth talking about.