For an awards show whose history boasts some of the boldest, most unforgettable fashion moments — one whose red carpet is just as entertaining as the show itself — the Grammys had a lot to live up to this year. And no, we're not talking about Beyoncé. With awards season becoming increasingly political, the outfits celebrities choose to wear have become more important than ever. Okay, now we're talking about Beyoncé.
From Queen Bey to the other B — Cardi, that is — music's biggest stars stepped out in the only way they knew how — more really is more. It's no small task for celebrities and their stylists, and it's a mindset that's basically a prerequisite for the big night (with some stars wearing several looks throughout the show). For those of us whose eyes are on the fashion and politics (via white roses and Time's Up pins, of course, which saw an added dose of colour to both movements), the most talented in music brought it — and then some. But hey, no surprise there considering the event was hosted in the fashion capital of New York City.
Ahead, you'll find our favourite looks from this year's Grammy awards. Some stars played it safe, some ventured out of their comfort zones and felt the music, so to speak, but — perhaps most importantly — they backed up their statement fashion with some pretty serious knowledge of what's going on in and out of their respective industries. And there's nothing more stylish than that.
Lana Del Rey
If you fancy yourself a Hollywood movie buff, you caught Lana Del Rey channelling Austrian actress Hedy Lamarr tonight. This dusty pink Gucci number was as ethereal as her dreamy tunes, with just enough glamour.
Lady Gaga
A skirt for days, a strong shoulder, a leg slit, a Time's Up pin, and a white rose — and in Armani, no less. We’ve come to expect nothing but major moments from Lady Gaga, but we have to admit, a small part of us does miss her steak and eggs days…
Emmylou Harris
To accept her Lifetime Achievement award, singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris wore a black dress with gold embroidery (and coordinating jacket). It was a look that stayed true to her country roots, and was an ideal choice for someone who's been the leading style icon for her category for, oh, 40 years.
Janelle Monae
Is that Janelle Monae? In...colour? Though it may be just a pop, she shut down the carpet (as usual) in a Dolce & Gabbana suit that may see her dipping her toes in a more vibrant palette from here on out. Black and white, rainbow — whatever — Monae upheld her fashion prowess tonight.
Cardi B
While the rap star’s engagement ring may have stolen the show during her red carpet interview, we couldn’t get over Cardi B’s epic Ashi gown. The Beirut-based couture house lucked out with the “Bodak Yellow” songstress and could soon be dominating award shows all over the world.
Kesha
Kesha made her “animals” proud tonight. When the West Coast pop star dropped the dollar sign and returned to centre stage, she brought with her a new lease on life — and a brand new look, too. This deep blue suit by Nudie was a calm, refreshing take on her rock 'n' roll roots.
Chrissy Teigen
When it comes to Chrissy Teigen, if you’re reading this, you’re already late. Okay, we’re just kidding, but if you missed her look on tonight’s red carpet, stop reading this and rewind your television sets right now. The newly expecting actress wore a glistening Yanina Couture gown that had enough sheen to be seen from space.
Rita Ora
Wearing Ralph & Russo, songbird Rita Ora kept things classic and streamlined tonight, despite the wavelike silhouette of her dress. We hope to see more of these Old Hollywood vibes from the “Proud” singer from here on out.
Eve
There were more than a few suits on the Grammys' red carpet tonight, but no one quite did it like Eve. In a dazzling pinstriped get-up by Naeem Khan, the rapper blew our minds (and yes, that was a pun).
SZA
For her first night as a Grammy nominee, singer SZA kept things fairytale-like in a Versace gown that turned heads. It’s a befitting choice for someone whose hard work and persistence has turned her career from dream to red carpet reality.
Andra Day
The category? Corporate Realness. Singer Andra Day slayed the carpet tonight in a Victoria Hayes suit-dress hybrid that may not be perfect for an actual boardroom (though Patsy Stone may fight you on that), but was a message well-received by those of us who see a future with more female CEOs and women in office.
Camila Cabello
Was it just us, or was Camila Cabello channelling Jessica Rabbit on tonight’s red carpet? Well, whether it was intentional or not, the “Havana” singer took the classic red dress move to the top of the fashion charts with a sweetheart neckline number from Vivienne Westwood that was a welcome dose of variety among a sea of crewneck numbers.
Miley Cyrus
It’s been a minute since we’ve seen a Jean-Paul Gaultier look off the catwalk, even at an event as larger-than-life as the Grammys, but Miley Cyrus brought the French couturier back and we loved every second of it. The clashing of militant details with the glamour of a classic, black dress made for a powerful red carpet moment.
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