Miley Cyrus
Pop provocateur and former "Hannah Montana" sweetheart Miley Cyrus made jaws drop at the 2015 MTV VMAs in a custom Atelier Versace ensemble that barely counted as clothing. The futuristic silver harness, paired with metallic suspenders and a chandelier-style crystal skirt, left little room for imagination for everyone.
The "Human Resources" voice artist had sky-high silver boots and a ponytail so long it practically had its own zip code. Miley, known for hits like "Wrecking Ball" and her fearless reinvention, owned the carpet like it was her stage. Not simply a red carpet moment, "Smiley" hosted the entire show in 11 wild outfit changes.
Katy Perry
For the 2019 Met Gala, Katy Perry lit up the carpet, literally, in a chandelier dress designed by Jeremy Scott for Moschino. The pop superstar behind chart-toppers like "Firework," "Roar," and "Teenage Dream" embraced the event's "Camp: Notes on Fashion" theme with unmatched commitment. The crystal-encrusted corset held up two full tiers of working electric candles.
It was topped off by a chandelier headpiece that defied gravity. Walking in heels under all that weight, Katy moved like a glamorized candelabra on the verge of song. After photos exploded online, Jeremy confirmed the custom piece weighed over 40 pounds and required battery packs hidden in her corset.
Emily Ratajkowski
With crystallized wings on her head and barely-there fabric draped across her body, Emily Ratajkowski turned the 2019 Met Gala into her fantasy runway in a custom Peter Dundas design. The model and actress became famous with her roles in "Blurred Lines," "Gone Girl," and her best-selling memoir "My Body."
She wore a nude illusion gown embroidered in silver that left her torso almost exposed. The halter neck crisscrossed dramatically over her chest, flowing into a sheer skirt that shimmered like wet diamonds. Her look paid tribute to Cher's legendary Bob Mackie era. Designers revealed that the headpiece alone took over 400 hours to finish.
Irina Shayk
Irina Shayk was stunned at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in 2015 at a jaw-dropping Atelier Versace creation featuring sheer black mesh on one side and solid black fabric on the other. The Russian supermodel gained global fame gracing the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and walking for brands like Victoria's Secret and Givenchy.
The "Hercules" actress turned heads with every step. Her asymmetrical gown revealed her statuesque figure with daring precision while balancing elegance and edge. Irina paired it with classic black heels and soft waves. That night, she made headlines for arriving solo after her breakup with Cristiano Ronaldo had been confirmed weeks before.
Bella Hadid
It's not every day a dress outshines the runway, but Bella Hadid's Julien Macdonald gown at the 2018 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show after-party did that. The silver halter creation featured a plunging neckline and a thigh-high slit, embodying the model's bold fashion choices. She's known for her work with brands like Dior.
Also, with appearances in campaigns for Bulgari, Bella's daring ensemble turned heads and sparked conversations. The gown, part of Julien's Spring 2019 collection, was a testament to her fearless style. As reported by Teen Vogue, the dress was completely see-through, with no lining, making it one of her most daring red carpet looks.
Heidi Klum
When Heidi Klum hit the 2017 MTV VMAs in a dazzling, nearly-nude gold gown by Peter Dundas, all eyes locked onto her. The supermodel, television host, and entrepreneur became a household name through "Project Runway," "Germany's Next Topmodel," and Victoria's Secret. Her floor-length design was intricately beaded with sheer panels that highlighted her famous figure.
The plunging neckline of her dress turned the glam factor up to full throttle. She kept accessories minimal, letting the craftsmanship of the dress shine. Despite the event's reputation for edgy fashion, Heidi's look sparked headlines for how effortlessly it balanced glamour with risk. She was 44 at the time.
Jaimie Alexander
Believe it or not, Jaimie Alexander wore a black Azzaro Couture gown without undergarments to the "Thor: The Dark World" premiere, stunning the red carpet. The actress is best known for playing Lady Sif in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and leading NBC's hit series "Blindspot." Her dress featured expertly placed sheer panels down the front and back.
The illusion of bareness turned the premiere into a headline frenzy. With her hair styled in a retro updo and minimal jewelry, the "Last Seen Alive" star let the daring design speak for itself. The gown sparked debate and dominated fashion blogs for weeks after Marvel approved it for the premiere.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Imagine walking into a Marvel premiere with half a dress and full confidence—that's what Gwyneth Paltrow did at the 2013 "Iron Man 3" red carpet. Wearing a daring Antonio Berardi creation, the gown featured sheer black mesh panels slicing through stark white and deep green fabric, giving the illusion of two gowns stitched into one.
From "Shakespeare in Love" to "The Talented Mr. Ripley" to her turn as Pepper Potts in the "Iron Man" series, Gwyneth has always flirted with fashion risk. After the event, she admitted on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" that she had to remove her underwear to avoid visible lines.
Jennifer Lawrence
You could practically hear camera shutters gasping when Jennifer Lawrence stepped onto the black carpet at the UK premiere of "Mother!" in 2017. Wearing a silver Atelier Versace gown that clung like cobwebs and glittered like shattered glass, she balanced elegance with cinematic edge. It was befitting for the "Silver Linings Playbook" actress.
The famous "The Hunger Games" and "American Hustle" entertainer walked with the ease of someone who knew the power of silence and sparkle. It's open back and illusion fabric added drama without crossing into costume. Paparazzi caught her pulling the dress up between takes, revealing it had zero lining beneath the beaded panels.
Savannah Chrisley
Trust Savannah Chrisley to command attention at the 2017 Academy of Country Music Awards. She was in a figure-hugging Bao Tranchi gown made of bold velvet panels and sheer mesh that flirted with every angle. The influencer is best known from the reality series "Chrisley Knows Best" and spin-off "Growing Up Chrisley."
She arrived looking less Southern belle and more red carpet siren. The plunging neckline and strategic cutouts added drama without overkill, while her short platinum hair and dark manicure pulled the whole look into edgy territory. In an E! News interview, Savannah revealed that her dad had nearly "passed out" when he saw how revealing the dress was.
Rihanna
Did Rihanna steal the 2017 Met Gala? Absolutely. The "Umbrella" songstress arrived in a Comme des Garçons creation by Rei Kawakubo that resembled a walking sculpture. It was voluminous with petal-like layers of floral fabric spiraling around her frame. Known for hits like "Diamonds" and "Work," the composer embraced the avant-garde theme with fearless precision.
Her crimson Dsquared2 thigh-high sandals laced up her legs, adding a fierce contrast to the dress's softness. The look was so intricate that it took her time to get into the shoes alone. She told Vogue's André Leon Talley, "The shoes now took me an hour to get into."
Amber Rose
If there was ever a moment that defined red carpet confidence, it was Amber Rose at the 2017 MTV VMAs in a custom sheer black sequin gown by Yousef Aljasmi. The model, actress, and activist rose to fame through high-profile music video appearances, her relationship with Kanye West, and her candid memoir "How to Be a Bad B*tch."
The gown hugged every curve, with strategic sheer paneling that left little to the imagination while catching every flash of the paparazzi's lens. With deep waves, bold lips, and sky-high confidence, Amber turned heads instantly. Her daring look landed her on nearly every major best- and worst-dressed list.
Kaley Cuoco
A few red carpet moments combine edge and elegance, such as Kaley Cuoco's 2013 ACM Awards appearance. "The Big Bang Theory" star, celebrated for her role as Penny, stunned in a black BCBG Max Azria halter gown. It featured geometric nude paneling that hugged her frame and added architectural drama.
Her platinum-blonde pompadour and smoky eye makeup amplified the boldness, while Cresta Bledsoe earrings and a Smythson clutch completed the look with polished contrast. It was daring without trying too hard, and it worked. This fearless ensemble landed Kaley on multiple best-dressed lists, including E! Online's, which praised her bold fashion risk with that fierce 'do and silhouette-hugging gown.
Madonna
In 2016, Madonna pushed boundaries at the Met Gala in a black Givenchy bodysuit made of sheer lace, bondage straps, and silver chains. The music icon, who revolutionized pop with hits like "Like a Virgin," "Material Girl," and "Ray of Light," decided to embrace the event's theme, "Manus x Machina."
Her outfit blurred the lines between machine-inspired fashion and human rebellion. She accessorized with a jeweled headpiece, fingerless gloves, and layers of silver medallions draped across her body. The daring ensemble exposed her breasts and backside, sparking media uproar. Madonna addressed critics by calling the outrage during an Instagram post that gained over 100,000 likes.
Sofía Vergara
While most stars played it safe, Sofía Vergara dominated the 2017 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a custom metallic crocodile-textured gown by Michael Kors. The Colombian-American actress, beloved for her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on "Modern Family," brought high drama in a curve-hugging design that gleamed under every flash.
Long sleeves, a high neckline, and a second-skin silhouette added undeniable power to the heavily accented star's glitzy look. Hair sleek, makeup bronzed, confidence at an all-time high, Sofía owned that carpet like it was primetime. Hours after the party, fashion insiders claimed the dress had to be sewn onto her minutes before she stepped out.
Hailey Bieber
Before she added "Bieber" to her name, Hailey Baldwin made jaws drop at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival in a strapless Roberto Cavalli Couture gown. The custom piece was a glittering illusion—nude mesh drenched in crystal embroidery, clinging like a second skin and flirting with every flashbulb.
Walking in "Tommy Hilfiger," starring in "Drop the Mic," and modeling for brands like "Guess" and "Ralph Lauren," Hailey delivered runway poise with A-list precision. Her blush-toned topknot added unexpected softness to the sultry look. According to the Fashion Court, the strapless evening gown was fully embroidered with pink nude crystal fringes and glass beads.
Julianne Hough
Since Julianne Hough stepped onto the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards red carpet, her Randi Rahm gown has been etched into fashion history. The coral halter-neck dress, paired with the right lipstick, featured a daringly low back and flowing silhouette. It complemented the dancer-turned-actress known for "Dancing with the Stars," "Footloose," and "Safe Haven."
The gown's subtle floral pattern and sheer overlay added a touch of whimsy to the bold color choice, while her gold clutch and soft braid elevated the styling. Fashion editors at Wonderwall pointed out that the sideless, backless cut made it a red carpet risk with zero room for error.
Lana Del Rey
The sequins lit up the room when Lana Del Rey walked into the 2018 Academy of Country Music Awards wearing a dazzling Valentino gown. Famous for melancholic masterpieces like "Video Games," "Ride," and "West Coast," the Grammy-nominated singer stunned in gold with a thigh-high slit and plunging neckline that embraced full vintage glam.
With perfectly waved hair, eyes smoldering, and lips nude, she embodied an ethereal diva from a dreamier era. The dramatic slit revealed toned legs, while shimmering sequins sparkled under every flash. Despite not being a country artist, her surprise presence at a genre event led to wild speculation about a rumored unreleased collaboration with Kacey Musgraves.
Gigi Hadid
Nothing about Gigi Hadid's appearance at the 2015 Vanity Fair Oscar Party whispered subtlety. The model arrived in a black Atelier Versace gown from the Spring/Summer 2015 collection. It featured daring cutouts and illusion insets that traced her silhouette with architectural precision. Her sleek updo and minimal accessories allowed the dress to command full attention.
The TV personality known for her work with "Guess," "Maybelline," and runway appearances for Tommy Hilfiger effortlessly embodied the brand's bold aesthetic. The asymmetrical swirl detail gave the illusion of fabric melting into skin. Fashion commentator Nick Verreos noted the gown was entirely hand-sewn, exemplifying Atelier Versace's meticulous craftsmanship.
Amber Valletta
Who says fashion can't time travel? Amber Valletta hit the 2004 Met Gala red carpet like a rococo dream dipped in punk attitude. The model-actress, famed for campaigns with Versace and appearances in films like "Hitch" and "Transporter 2," turned heads in a dramatic John Galliano skirt, printed with tribal motifs.
She paired it with a gleaming Maggie Norris Couture gold corset. Hair coiffed like Marie Antoinette, Amber leaned into the "Dangerous Liaisons" theme with high drama and a wink to history. Vogue later ranked her in their list of "Most Daring Met Gala Looks of All Time," sealing this moment as a certified fashion history gem.
Lily Collins
Lily Collins floated out of the "Okja" premiere at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival in a Ralph & Russo gown that felt spun from moonlight. Indeed, "Rules Don't Apply." The dress featured a structured bodice with delicate pleating, a daring thigh-high slit, and a sweeping train that moved like vapor across the carpet.
Known for "Mirror Mirror," "To the Bone," and the hit series "Emily in Paris," Lily brought vintage glamor with a touch of modern edge. Her diamond necklace and pin-straight hair sealed the look's celestial drama. French outlets reported her gown was hand-stitched over 250 hours and shipped in a climate-controlled case.
Carrie Underwood
Before Carrie Underwood stepped onto the 2019 ACM Awards red carpet, she was already a winner. The singer, who rose to fame with "American Idol," dazzled in a Nicolas Jebran one-shoulder gown adorned with intricate beading and dual thigh-high slits. She's also celebrated for hits like "Before He Cheats" and "Cry Pretty."
Carrie complemented her look with Jimmy Choo's crystal-embellished Shiloh sandals, Hueb earrings, and rings by Dena Kemp and Djula. Her appearance marked her first major event since giving birth to her second child. The gown's shimmering details and bold design captured the evening's spotlight, reaffirming her status as a red carpet icon.
Taylor Swift
You could blink and still catch Taylor Swift gliding across the carpet like a lavender dream at the 2010 ACM Awards. The "Fearless" singer floated in a pleated Marchesa gown dripping in romantic lilac embroidery, framing her ethereal presence like a soft country ballad. She turned heads and left them spinning.
Taylor's updo, paired with diamond drop earrings and that signature red lip, whispered Old Hollywood with a modern melody. The floor-length gown cinched her waist perfectly, letting the delicate tulle flow like her lyrics in "Love Story." It's fitting that her look ranked No. 1 on PopSugar's ACM Awards best-dressed list that year.
Helen Lasichanh
With sculptural audacity, Helen Lasichanh arrived at the 2017 Met Gala in a Comme des Garçons creation by Rei Kawakubo. The red ensemble, devoid of armholes, enveloped her form in bold, bulbous curves, epitomizing the designer's avant-garde vision. A model and designer, Helen is recognized for her distinctive style and her partnership with musician Pharrell Williams.
The mother of four's choice resonated with the evening's theme, "Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between," embracing the designer's challenge to conventional fashion norms. The outfit's unconventional silhouette sparked widespread online discussion, with many likening it to a "Teletubby" costume, highlighting its memorable impact.
Scarlett Johansson
Few stars understood red carpet drama like Scarlett Johansson at the 2020 Oscars. She glided in a pewter-toned silk Oscar de la Renta gown that fused old-Hollywood glam with architectural precision. The singer-actress is celebrated for her roles in "Lost in Translation," "Marriage Story," and as Natasha Romanoff in Marvel's "Avengers" saga.
She wore a corseted bodice wrapped in silver threadwork that spilled into a flawless satin train. Hair swept back, diamonds sparkling, confidence absolute. The design hugged every contour and left fashion editors scrambling to include her on best-dressed lists. That night, Scarlett became one of only twelve performers ever double-nominated in acting categories.
Gisele Bündchen
There's no denying that Gisele Bündchen reigned supreme at the 2008 Met Gala. In a blush-toned, backless Versace gown that hugged every curve, she embodied the "Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy" theme. The Brazilian supermodel is celebrated for her work with Victoria's Secret, campaigns for Chanel, and appearances in "The Devil Wears Prada" as Serena.
She delivered a daring and elegant look. The gown's architectural design and silky finish highlighted her statuesque frame, making her one of the evening's most photographed attendees. According to TIME, the frock was lauded for its sophisticated allure, securing her spot among the event's most iconic fashion moments.
Maren Morris
Maren Morris lit up the 2019 Academy of Country Music Awards in a lilac Christian Siriano gown with a dramatic train and ruffled neckline. The singer-songwriter grabbed attention long before stepping inside, having already earned accolades for hits like "My Church," "The Bones," and "Girl." She has powerful vocals, too.
Maren often fuses country, pop, and soul into chart-topping magic. That night, her look delivered a mix of modern femininity and sleek glam. The statement dress may have stolen the carpet, but her four nominations sealed her star power. No wonder her gown was featured in E! News's 2019 ACM Awards Best Dressed list.
Donatella Versace
After losing her brother Gianni Versace in 1997, Donatella Versace stepped into the spotlight as a designer and a fashion icon. At the 1999 Met Gala, themed "Rock Style," she donned a sleeveless version of the now-iconic jungle-print silk chiffon dress. A daring design that would later gain worldwide fame.
The gown's tropical leaf and bamboo pattern, combined with its plunging neckline, made a bold statement. Instrumental in shaping the Versace brand, Donatella's been associated with numerous fashion milestones. Notably, this very dress was later worn by Jennifer Lopez at the 2000 Grammy Awards, an event so impactful that it led to the creation of Google Images.
Miranda Lambert
Just when Miranda Lambert had the country world buzzing, she arrived at the 2018 Academy of Country Music Awards in a Georges Chakra gown that turned heads. The sleeveless red dress featured a sequined bodice with striped cutouts and a flowing skirt that added drama to her entrance.
A powerhouse behind hits like "The House That Built Me," "Mama's Broken Heart," and "Vice," Miranda paired the look with a bold magenta clutch and loose waves. E! News noted that this was her first red carpet appearance following her split from Anderson East, making the look as headline-worthy as it was glamorous.
Adriana Lima
Adriana Lima turned heads at the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a Ralph & Russo blazer-style gown. The off-white silk crêpe and double satin dress featured a plunging neckline, structured shoulders, and a thigh-high slit adorned with jeweled crystal buttons. She's a former Victoria's Secret Angel and the face of brands like Maybelline and Chopard.
Her fashion choices, streamlined by these renowned engagements, often reflect her bold persona. This ensemble was no exception, exuding confidence and elegance. The standout detail was a diamond-encrusted garter by Chopard wrapped around her leg, subtly revealed through the slit. A daring accessory that added sparkle and intrigue to her look.
Kacey Musgraves
While many stars dazzled in gowns at the 2019 Academy of Country Music Awards, Kacey Musgraves turned heads in a pastel ombré two-piece suit from Christian Cowan's Powerpuff Girls collection. The ensemble featured a gradient of blue, pink, and green hues, complemented by pleated detailing on the sleeves and pants.
Known for her genre-fusing hits like "Rainbow" and "High Horse," Kacey added a modern twist by wearing the blazer without a shirt underneath, embracing the "no-shirt" trend. Her look was a nod to her album "Golden Hour" and a bold fashion statement. The suit made its runway debut in March 2019, a month before the awards.
Nicole Kidman
Who else could make embroidery feel like high drama? Nicole Kidman did that at the 2017 Academy of Country Music Awards in an Alexander McQueen gown. The floor-length, long-sleeved dress was adorned with intricate flora and fauna motifs, creating a fabric of elegance. Her résumé spans everything, given her expansive career.
From "Moulin Rouge!" and "The Hours" to the award-winning series "Big Little Lies," she's blended bold storytelling with poised red carpet moments. The gown's bohemian energy paired seamlessly with emerald drop earrings and sleek sandals. According to Vogue, the look was hailed as one of the evening's most refined interpretations of red carpet risk.
Jennifer Nettles
When Jennifer Nettles stepped onto the 2018 ACM Awards blue carpet in a burgundy J. Mendel velvet stunner, jaws didn't simply drop—they stayed dropped. The country powerhouse behind "Stay," "Stuck Like Glue," and "Something More" brought texture, drama, and vintage glamor to an otherwise sequined-heavy night.
Jennifer lit up the evening in long sleeves, a high neck, and an all-eyes-here silhouette that hugged her in all the right places. The burnished fabric shimmered under camera flashes, proving that minimal sparkle can still mean maximum impact. In an Instagram post shared during the awards ceremony, she described her gown as a "fire-filled offering."
Taylor Hill
Don't expect subtlety when Taylor Hill steps onto a red carpet. At the 2019 Met Gala, she wore a custom Ralph Lauren Collection gown in pearlescent pink hammered satin, paired with a dramatic feather coat. The strapless silhouette and glossy finish channeled old Hollywood glam, while the oversized boa added a theatrical flair.
A Victoria's Secret Angel and face of brands like Lancôme and Ralph Lauren, Taylor knows how to command attention. Her look was inspired by a vintage Ralph Lauren design, reimagined with added feathers to embrace the "Camp: Notes on Fashion" theme. The ensemble was featured on the corporation's official Instagram, highlighting its bespoke nature.
Anne Hathaway
After dyeing her hair platinum blonde for a role, Anne Hathaway stunned at the 2013 Met Gala. She wore a daring black sheer Valentino gown with feathered sleeves and a punk-infused attitude. The Oscar-winning actress is acclaimed for "Les Misérables," "The Devil Wears Prada," and "Rachel Getting Married."
She turned heads with her edgy transformation, which deviated from her usual romantic style. Anne embraced the event's "PUNK: Chaos to Couture" theme with her sharp styling, dramatic eye makeup, and unexpected fierceness. According to Valentino's official Instagram, she wore archival 1992 haute couture—a fashion history flex few others at the gala could claim.
Kelsea Ballerini
Since her debut single, "Love Me Like You Mean It," climbed the charts, Kelsea Ballerini has been a standout in country music. At the 2018 Academy of Country Music Awards, she turned heads in a white, flowing Kristian Aadnevik gown with intricate lace detailing and a daring thigh-high slit.
The dress's ethereal quality was complemented by her soft waves and minimal accessories, allowing her natural beauty to shine. Kelsea's performance of "I Hate Love Songs" that evening was met with acclaim, further solidifying her status in the industry. Notably, she and her ex-husband, Morgan Evans, made one of their first red carpet appearances as newlyweds here.
Miranda Lambert
Just when you think Miranda Lambert can't surprise you, she arrives at the 2019 ACM Awards in a neon green halter-style gown that turns every head. The country powerhouse, known for "The House That Built Me," "Mama's Broken Heart," and "Vice," exudes confidence and charisma. She paired it with a multicolored clutch, sleek hairstyle, and a megawatt smile.
It perfectly complemented her bold personality and daring style choices. Miranda's appearance at the event cemented her fashion icon status and reaffirmed her reigning spot in the country music elite. That night, the "Bluebird" hitmaker made headlines by debuting her new husband, Brendan McLoughlin, on the red carpet.
Eiza González
A vision in high-contrast couture, Eiza González made her Met Gala debut in 2018 wearing a custom black-and-white gown from the Atelier Prabal Gurung line. The dress featured a hand-embroidered cross motif column silhouette in onyx silk chiffon, paired with a cutout mako bandeau and an alabaster duchess satin cape.
The "Baby Driver," "Alita: Battle Angel," and "Ambulance" star embraced the "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" theme with a look that blended sensuality and symbolism. To complete the ensemble, Eiza accessorized with TASAKI jewelry and Giuseppe Zanotti heels. The gown was part of Prabal's debut Atelier collection, launched at the Met Gala.
Rebecca Romijn
There's no way to ignore Rebecca Romijn sweeping into the 2018 Academy of Country Music Awards in a jaw-dropping Uel Camilo gown. The design clung in all the right places, with sheer paneling and glimmering beaded geometric patterns that gave optical illusion realness. She accessorized with yellow gold earrings and a ring from L'Dezen's Roaq collection.
Rebecca first burst onto the scene in "X-Men" as Mystique and stunned again in "Ugly Betty" and "The Librarians." A red carpet veteran, she brought elegance and edge in equal measure, widely covered by fashion outlets. The structured silhouette and confident styling made it one of the night's most unforgettable moments.
Lindsey Vonn
If Cinderella ditched glass slippers for stilettos and hit the ACM Awards, she would look like Lindsey Vonn. The Olympic gold medalist swapped ski gear for full glam in a Christian Siriano canary yellow gown bursting with tulle in 2018. She dominated the slopes in events like the Winter Olympics and World Cup races.
The two-time World Championship gold medalist easily pivoted into pop culture in this frock. Her gown was as bold as her downhill finishes, and the high-neck, long-sleeve design balanced elegance with drama. Gliding across the blue carpet, she embraced the moment like a seasoned star. The gown landed her on multiple best-dressed lists.