The Worst MTV VMAs Looks Of All Time

The MTV Video Music Awards are known as an event where music's biggest stars come together to celebrate their achievements in the industry and, of course, showcase their unique sense of style. Over the years, we've witnessed some truly unforgettable fashion moments on the VMA red carpet. From glamorous gowns to edgy ensembles, the event has been known for looks which became a major part of pop culture. However, not all red carpet moments at the VMAs are equal. For every show-stopping outfit that graces the event, there's bound to be a fashion faux pas lurking in the shadows.

Together, let's take a stroll down memory lane to revisit some of the most cringe-worthy, shocking, and downright disastrous fashion choices ever made by music's biggest stars at the VMAs. And while we won't hold back, let's just remember that fashion is subjective, and sometimes even the most glamorous stars make regrettable outfit choices. Now, from maximalist mishaps to DIY disasters, these celebrity looks are a reminder that even the biggest names in the music industry can sometimes have a bad fashion day (and sometimes that day just so happens to be at the VMAs).

The early 2000s was certainly a time of questionable fashion choices, and Christina Aguilera's 2002 VMAs look is no exception. In the midst of her "Dirrty" phase, she was clearly on a mission to shock, and shock she did. Aguilera sported an ultra-mini denim skirt (a Y2K staple we'd rather forget), which she paired with what can only be described as a DIY creation. Her top? Well, it seemed like she'd grabbed a scarf, wrapped it around her neck, and called it fashion. While it's undoubtedly on our worst-dressed list, we can't help but also love the fact that she went this route.

Miley Cyrus is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of fashion, and her 2015 MTV VMAs look is a great example. Hosting that year's event, the former Disney Channel star graced the red carpet in a jaw-dropping futuristic silver ensemble that left little to the imagination. The metallic madness of her outfit seemed more like a costume from a sci-fi movie than a red carpet look, but hey, if there's somebody who dares to rock this to an awards ceremony, it's Miley Cyrus.

Fergie's look for the 2006 VMAs red carpet was definitely not everyone's cup of tea since it appeared as if her entire outfit, including her mini tie, had shrunk in the wash. While Fergie is known for her bold and sometimes avant-garde fashion choices, this particular look missed the mark. The ultra-tiny fit will forever be remembered as a questionable choice. While beauty might be in the eye of the beholder, even the most die-hard fashionistas have a hard time loving this look.

Pamela Anderson made quite an entrance at the 1999 VMAs with a look that is engraved in our memories. Her choice of a giant, feathery pink hat was definitely a bold one, and it has stood the test of time, as fans often recreate it as a Halloween costume. Anderson's daring choice for the unconventional has solidified this look as an iconic moment in MTV VMAs history. While it may not have been a fashion slam dunk, it's certainly left a lasting impression on pop culture.

There's no doubt that Jennifer Lopez is a fashion icon, but even the best can have a bad day. J.Lo's outfit for the 2004 VMAs was an overload of fashion elements, featuring a wide-brimmed hat, oversized dangly earrings, and an embellished dress. It seemed like she was trying to incorporate every trend into a single ensemble, and the result was a bit too chaotic, even for the bold mid-2000s fashion scene.

Britney Spears was the reigning pop sensation of the early 2000s, and back then, her looks were generally always on point. However, her 2002 VMAs outfit was an exception to that rule, as it felt forced and overdone. While we applaud her attempt to explore an edgy dominatrix vibe (like Amber Rose above), between the lace-up heels, fingerless over-the-elbow gloves, and biker hat, there were simply too many bold accessories.

Jessie J's determination to attend the 2011 VMAs despite having a broken foot is certainly admirable. However, her fashion choice for the occasion left something to be desired. She opted for a blinged-out cast and crutches to match her bodysuit, and while we love that she didn't let the injury keep her away, the overall look was a disappointment.

Lil' Kim has a reputation for her daring and bold fashion choices, and the 2000 VMAs were no exception. She rocked a plasticky skin-baring orange look that definitely made a statement. However, it was the matching coat she chose to wear over this already audacious outfit that left much to be desired.

In 2005, Jessica Simpson showed up to the VMAs in an outfit that seemed to draw inspiration from the classic French maid costume. Today, we use this look as a reminder that sometimes, certain styles are best reserved for specific settings — i.e., costume parties.

In 2010, Lady Gaga made headlines at the VMAs with an outfit that, while iconic and memorable, had to be mentioned on this list. Gaga's intention was to use the meat dress as a protest against the military's Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. The dress, designed by Franc Fernandez and styled by Nicola Formichetti, remains one of the most shocking and unusual choices ever seen on a red carpet.