The Grammy Awards red carpet has long been a showcase of extravagant and boundary-pushing fashion, evolving significantly starting in the 90s. In the mid-’90s, the fashion scene was marked by a blend of grunge and glam. Artists like Whitney Houston and Toni Braxton embraced sophisticated gowns, often with high slits and sequin embellishments.
As the 2000s unfolded, the red carpet became a platform for artists to express their individuality. Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga emerged as trendsetters, introducing avant-garde designs and pushing the boundaries of traditional eveningwear. Rihanna, in particular, became renowned for her fearless fashion choices, epitomizing modern, edgy elegance.
The 2010s brought a further shift toward diverse and inclusive styles. Black artists, such as Cardi B and Lizzo, embraced their heritage on the red carpet, incorporating elements of African and African-American culture into their looks. This decade also witnessed a resurgence of classic Hollywood glamour, with stars like Adele and Taylor Swift opting for timeless and sophisticated ensembles.
In recent years, the red carpet has been a canvas for sustainability and activism. Celebrities like Billie Eilish have used their fashion choices to advocate for environmental awareness and social justice. Gender fluidity in fashion has also taken center stage, with artists like Harry Styles challenging traditional norms by donning gender-blurring outfits.
From the glamorous gowns of the ’90s to the avant-garde and socially conscious styles of the 2020s, the Grammy Awards red carpet has continuously reflected the ever-changing landscape of the music industry and society at large. It remains a dynamic and influential stage where artists not only showcase their musical prowess but also make powerful statements through their sartorial choices.
Lil’ Kim. Image: LUCY NICHOLSON/AFP for Getty Images.
Andre 3000 and Big Boi. Image: Jan Jarecki/Donato Sardella/WWD/Penske Media for Getty Images.
Rapper Soulja Boy. Image: Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Getty Images.
Erykah Badu. Image: Jan Jarecki/Donato Sardella/WWD/Penske Media for Getty Images.
Brandy Norwood and Monica Arnold. Image: Jan Jarecki/Donato Sardella/WWD/Penske Media for Getty Images
Rihanna. Image: Dan MacMedan/WireImage for Getty Images.
Toni Braxton. Image: Vinnie Zuffante for Getty Images.
Boyz II Men. Image: Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection for Getty Images
Ludacris. Image: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc for Getty Images.
Pharrell Williams. Image: Larry Busacca/WireImage for Getty Images.
Eve. Image: Frank Trapper/Corbis for Getty Images.
Grammy winner Macy Gray at the 43rd Annual Grammy Awards. (Photo by Frank Trapper/Corbis via Getty Images)
Kelis. Image: Frank Trapper/Corbis for Getty Images.
Salt N Pepa and DJ Spinderella. Image: Ken Hively/Los Angeles Times for Getty Images.
Destiny’s Child. Image: VINCE BUCCI/AFP for Getty Images.
Whitney Houston. Image: Robin Platzer/IMAGES for Getty Images.
Eva Pigford. Image: Frank Trapper/Corbis for Getty Images.
Jada Pinkett-Smith. Image: Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Getty Images.
Pattie Labelle. Image: Dave Hogan for Getty Images.
Toccara. Image: Dan MacMedan/WireImage for Getty Images.
Nicki Minaj. Image: Jeff Vespa for Getty Images.
Mary J. Blige. Image: Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times for Getty Images.
Fantasia. Image: Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Getty Images.
Willow Smith. Image: Kevin Mazur for Getty Images.
Janelle Monae. Image: Jeff Vespa for Getty Images.
Ciara. Image: Jeff Vespa for Getty Images
Kelly Rowland. Image: Larry Busacca/WireImage for Getty Images.
Solange Knowles. Image: Larry Busacca/WireImage for Getty Images.
Amerie. Image: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc for Getty Images.
John Legend. Image: Frank Trapper/Corbis for Getty Images
