The 10 Most Iconic MTV VMAs Looks We Never Stopped Thinking About

The useful part

While other awards shows tend to favor polished gowns and predictable glamor, the VMAs have always been the place where celebrities get to have a little fun. Back in the day, it's where Jennifer Lopez would show up in white jeans and a matching bandana, and where Lady Gaga would gag us with an ensemble more shocking than the last. The performances may be legendary, but the fashion moments are often just as unforgettable.

How it works

• Year after year, the VMAs have delivered the kind of red-carpet looks that spark headlines, inspire Halloween costumes, and become permanently etched into pop-culture history.
• From daring silhouettes to downright unexpected styling choices, these are the outfits that helped define the spirit of the VMAs.
• Over the years, the red carpet has given us barely-there looks, questionable accessories, major fashion risks, and outfits so memorable they practically became pop-culture landmarks.

Details worth keeping

Awards have never exactly been known for playing it safe. Sunday (Sept 27) and we can't wait to see what the stars have in store. Throughout history, there are the looks that need no introduction, like Destiny's Child bringing coordinated girl-group glamor to the ceremony, creating a visual time capsule of late-'90s and early-2000s style that feels instantly nostalgic and still relevant today.