We can always rely on the fashion of the MTV Video Music Awards to make us think.

It’s where Lady Gaga debuted the meat dress that would become pop culture lore, Lil’ Kim made the case for purple nipple pasties and where Britney Spears established herself as a chameleon who can pull off a black lace mini dress one minute and a Swarovski-crystal-embellished bodysuit the next.

The VMAs is one place where celebrities don’t pull any punches in the fashion stakes.

Here are the people who really proved their star power in style:

Troye Sivan is in a league of his own wearing Erdem spring/summer 2027.

Originally shown as a dress on the runway, the look features a tailored suit top, asymmetrical draped waist and feathered trim. Sivan paired it with black pants here, delivering a striking look with layered meaning.

To the naked eye, this might just be a flamboyant fashion choice from a pop star. However, the story behind the look reveals it as an inspired move that proves Sivan isn’t another surface-level singer.

Sparked by the 1920s American aerialist and drag performer Barbette, Erdem’s collection embraced the beauty and possibility within the charged space between feminine and masculine identities. Sivan plays on similar themes, with his music and art also interrogating ideas of gender, fashion and expression.

One of the biggest stars in the world right now, Thai singer and former member of girl group Blackpink, Lisa looks sensational in a custom Quine Li coat and The Attico dress, both a vibrant shade of blood-red.

Quine Li is a New York-based label that’s become a celebrity-favourite, thanks to their distinct sculptural pieces featuring abstract, futuristic silhouettes.

There are plenty of black ensembles at the VMAs this year, but none land quite as well as Charli xcx’s.

The British pop star and cultural phenomenon wore a custom black velvet Saint Laurent look by creative director Anthony Vaccarello.

Inspired by a dress from a 2017 collection, Charli’s version features a floor length skirt and crop top with sheer panelling and dramatic bow sleeves. Not to mention, abs you can’t argue with.

Her stage presence was once associated with the demure and slightly awkward persona of a girl not yet a woman.

But that person is far from mind as Pinkpantheress walked the VMAs carpet tonight looking gorgeous in a Nina Ricci gown from Peter Copping’s 2011 pre-fall collection.

Made from polka-dot chiffon fabric that falls in tiers to the floor, the dress fits like a glove and perfectly matched her femme energy with edge.

If you’re not familiar with the work of American musician Slayyyter, her VMAs debut should rectify that.

Wearing a nude tiered asymmetrical gown with an over-the-shoulder train and silver lace detailing, she is a clear style standout. Growing her dark roots out with soft waves, she looks every inch the modern pop star.

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