The MTV VMAs are known for bold fashion statements, especially when it comes to menswear. From classic tuxedos to adventurous styling choices, this year’s red carpet did not disappoint. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable looks from the night, where every man brought his unique sense of style to the forefront.
Vintage Codes, Modern Cool
Damiano David of Måneskin never fails to bring a sense of drama to the red carpet, and his Etro brown double-breasted jacquard suit was no exception. With its 1930s aura, it evoked a time when men dressed with sharp attention to codes of conduct and etiquette. The rich texture and vintage cut exuded sophistication, and the striped tie added an extra touch of old-world charm.
A Jean Schlumberger Bird on a Rock brooch completed his vintage-inspired look which managed to merge retro style with a touch of eccentricity. This was a total win.
Sleek Return
Shawn Mendes made a triumphant return to the VMAs red carpet in a Dolce & Gabbana wool tuxedo that showcased his knack for sleek, understated style. The trim details and western-inspired buttons added subtle but unique touches that you might miss at first glance. Unfortunately, the finer points of the tuxedo got a little lost in the photography, which is a shame because they were what set this look apart.
This was Shawn’s way of saying he’s back—still polished, still effortless. While this wasn’t the flashiest ensemble of the night, it was a reminder of his quiet confidence and timeless appeal.
Styled by Tiffany Briseno.
Sharp but Not Too Formal
Black-on-black was a major trend at this year’s VMAs, and Rauw Alejandro was right in line, wearing a sharp Saint Laurent suit by Anthony Vaccarello. Despite the presence of a tie, the overall look didn’t feel too formal, and that’s likely because the tie was nearly invisible. This was an intentional choice, playing with the line between dressed-up and laid-back.
This is how you do red carpet style without going overboard—a subtle yet effective masterclass in modern menswear. Cartier jewels completed his look.
Rocker Chic, But Maybe Too Much?
Lenny Kravitz is the king of rocker style, but this time around, his look teetered on the edge of costume territory. The leather tie with no shirt underneath? It’s a statement, sure, but it didn’t quite land. As much as I love a good Lenny moment, this ensemble felt more like a caricature of his signature style rather than the effortlessly cool looks we’ve come to expect from him.
This outfit would have been far stronger without the leather tie. Sometimes, less is more, even for rock stars.
Sheer Style Victory
Benson Boone, who snagged the ‘Best Alternative’ award, looked every bit the stylish risk-taker in his Dolce & Gabbana ensemble. Taking notes from Pelayo Díaz’s playbook, Benson embraced the sheer lace trend with a black shirt paired with silk wide-leg pants.
What really caught my eye, though, were the Dolce & Gabbana rhinestone boots, which added a rock glam touch that took the look to the next level. Boone is proving he’s not afraid to experiment with high fashion, and it’s working.
Styled by Monty Jackson.
Jumpsuit Perfection
Big Sean showed us how to do a “one-and-done” moment right, rocking an Antos jumpsuit that stood out for being unique on this red carpet. The addition of a Prada shirt elevated the look, keeping it from falling into typical rapper style tropes. This outfit was a refreshing change—sleek, minimal, and effortlessly cool.
Moonman Moto Magic
Leave it to Lil Nas X to take things to the next level—this time, channelling his inner Moonman with a moto-inspired pink and white leather outfit. The pièce de résistance? A funnel-accented helmet that sold the entire futuristic vision. This is exactly what we expect from Lil Nas X: bold, playful, and fearless.
Credit: Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images / Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images / Jamie McCarthy/WireImage
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