The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet transformed into a runway of enchanting and mystical styles, with numerous celebrities embracing a "witchy" aesthetic to commemorate the arrival of the autumn season. Despite Los Angeles still basking in summery warmth, attendees, including musical artist Charli XCX and television personality Ella Bright, artfully channeled the spirit of the equinox through their attire. The event underscored a growing trend where dramatic flair and a hint of the supernatural seamlessly blend with high fashion, demonstrating that a touch of "practical magic" can significantly elevate a fall wardrobe. This convergence of celebrity glamour and thematic dressing made for a visually captivating spectacle, reflecting an imaginative approach to red-carpet dressing.

Artists and performers presented distinct interpretations of this bewitching trend. Charli XCX, for instance, chose a striking black velvet ensemble by Saint Laurent, featuring a design from Anthony Vaccarello's fall 2017 collection. Her outfit, characterized by an exceptionally low-cut skirt and a voluminous-sleeved top with a sheer insert, was complemented by a sleek black hairstyle, smoky eye makeup, and a dark manicure, collectively exuding a sophisticated yet edgy vibe. Similarly, Ella Bright embraced a vampiric allure, debuting a new dark hairstyle and donning a black satin corset dress accessorized with a pearl choker and modern slim sunglasses. Teyana Taylor opted for a more opulent expression of the theme in Zuhair Murad couture, distinguishing herself early in the evening with a transparent black lace gown that boasted a deep neckline, a high slit, and lavish ostrich feather detailing. Adam Lambert also contributed to the mystical mood, arriving in a dramatic black satin cape adorned with bell sleeves and a flowing train, topped with a custom headpiece by famed milliner Philip Treacy that subtly referenced Jonathan Anderson’s Dior resort 2027 collection. These diverse fashion choices collectively solidified the idea that the 2026 MTV VMAs were an ode to evocative and fantastical dressing.

Celebrity Embrace of Mystical Aesthetics

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards witnessed a fascinating fashion movement, as prominent figures adopted a “witchy” theme for their red-carpet appearances. This trend, perfectly timed with the autumn equinox, saw stars like Charli XCX and Ella Bright showcasing dark, ethereal, and dramatically styled outfits. The collective interpretation of this mystical aesthetic highlighted a creative departure from conventional glamour, allowing celebrities to express individuality through rich fabrics, bold silhouettes, and intricate details. The infusion of enchantment into their ensembles not only captured widespread attention but also set a unique fashion tone for the event, demonstrating how thematic dressing can add depth and intrigue to public appearances.

Charli XCX made a notable entrance in a black velvet Saint Laurent creation, an ensemble that featured a remarkably low-rise column skirt paired with a balloon-sleeved crop top that revealed a mesh window, emphasizing a daring aesthetic. Her entire presentation, from her smooth dark hair to her smoky eye makeup and deep red manicure, impeccably reinforced the witchy motif. Ella Bright also leaned into a vampiric sensibility, unveiling a new dark hair color and sporting a black satin corset dress, elegantly accessorized with a pearl choker and contemporary slim black sunglasses. This sophisticated yet edgy look further exemplified the diverse ways celebrities interpreted the night’s informal theme, blending classic elements with modern touches for a truly captivating presence.

Dramatic Interpretations and High Fashion Allure

The 2026 MTV VMAs were characterized by a series of dramatic and high-fashion statements that redefined red-carpet elegance. Teyana Taylor stood out with her maximalist take on the witchy trend, gracing the event in a breathtaking Zuhair Murad couture gown. This sheer black lace masterpiece featured a plunging neckline, a daring thigh-high slit, and an abundance of luxurious ostrich feather embellishments, cementing her status as an early standout. Her choice epitomized a blend of theatricality and refined craftsmanship, demonstrating how elaborate designs can convey a powerful and enchanting narrative on the red carpet.

Adam Lambert further amplified the event’s dramatic atmosphere with his theatrical black satin cape, complete with striking bell sleeves and a sweeping silhouette. His look was perfected with an "ADAM" headpiece, a custom creation by the celebrated milliner Philip Treacy, which brought to mind the sophisticated designs seen in Jonathan Anderson's Dior resort 2027 collection. This collaboration between Lambert and Treacy underscored the importance of intricate detailing and bespoke accessories in creating a truly memorable and impactful fashion statement. Whether through opulent gowns or elaborate capes, the celebrities at the 2026 MTV VMAs proved that embracing bold, imaginative fashion can result in an unforgettable display of glamour and style.