The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards was full of unforgettable Black fashion moments

In an evening celebrating music, 50 years of hip hop, and the unpredictable, Black stars slayed at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet

Stepping into the VMAs, where anything can happen — and this year, Black celebs reminded fans we can rock anything. The 2023 VMAs got underway on Tuesday night, and as fans enjoyed highly anticipated performances and appearances by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion, Lil Wayne, Diddy, Doja Cat, Nicki Minaj, and more, here at theGrio, we are still reflecting on some of the style choices from the Video Music Award’s pink carpet. 

Cardi B

2023 VMA Red Carpet, VMA Red carpet fashion, best looks from 2023 VMAs, 2023 Video Music Awards theGrio.com
Cardi B attends the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

Ahead of her energy-packed “Bongos” performance alongside Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B showcased her creative eye on the red carpet. In a custom Dilara Findikoglu gown, covered in metal duck clips — a coveted tool in Black hair salons — Cardi B subconsciously honored her place as most women’s natural hair goals and fashion inspiration. 

“I’m a creative,” said Cardi B during the VMA pre-show interview. “I have to be creative with everything, my clothes, my pictures. I’m just a creative person, so my visions just have to come to life.”

Megan Thee Stallion 

2023 VMA Red Carpet, VMA Red carpet fashion, best looks from 2023 VMAs, 2023 Video Music Awards theGrio.com
US rapper Megan Thee Stallion arrives for the MTV Video Music Awards (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

“Body-ody-ody-ody-ody-ody-ody-ody”. As the Houston Hottie eases her way back into the music scene, the rapper served sheer bawdy and glamour in an all-black custom Brandon Blackwood gown and Jacob & Co. jewelry.

Nicki Minaj

2023 VMA Red Carpet, VMA Red carpet fashion, best looks from 2023 VMAs, 2023 Video Music Awards theGrio.com
US rapper and singer Nicki Minaj arrives for the MTV Video Music Awards (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

As the evening’s host, Nicki Minaj, “Muva to the Barbz,” stepped out in her version of bridal Barbiecore in Dolce and Gabbana.

Doja Cat

2023 VMA Red Carpet, VMA Red carpet fashion, best looks from 2023 VMAs, 2023 Video Music Awards theGrio.com
Doja Cat attends the 2023 MTV Music Video Awards(Photo by John Nacion/WireImage)

It’s only September, but Doja Cat appeared to already be in the Halloween spirit as the rapper walked the carpet in a spidery look by Ap0cene with Monse accessorized with jewelry by Maria Tash and Nicole Rose.

Explore more Black fashion moments from the evening below:

2023 MTV Video Music Awards – Prince Derek Doll

Prince Derek Doll attends the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)


Haniyah Philogene is a multimedia storyteller and Lifestyle reporter covering all things culture. With a passion for digital media, she goes above and beyond to find new ways to tell and share stories.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. TheGrio’s Black Podcast Network is free too. Download theGrio mobile apps today! Listen to ‘Writing Black‘ with Maiysha Kai.

Mentioned in this article:

More About: