Best BRIT Awards outfits: The most daring, iconic and bonkers ensembles that have graced the red carpet

The BRIT Awards return this weekend and is one of the most glamorous events in the music industry.

The red carpet at UK events is always known for its bold and surprising fashion choices from celebrities.

Since 1977, stars have worn some amazing looks at the yearly awards show.

They’ve become fashion icons, whether through controversial choices or truly inspired style, and are now recognized as some of the best-dressed people around.

While some looks have stood the test of time, others are best left in the past.

Oh my gosh, the Daily Mail just had to dissect everyone’s outfits, didn’t they? They’re going through all the looks, pointing out the absolute best and, ugh, the worst fashion choices. I’m already bracing myself for the critiques – it’s going to be amazing… and probably a little brutal!

Maura Higgins – 2025

Maura Higgins ensured all eyes were on her as she donned one of her raciest looks yet.

The Love Island star turned heads on the red carpet in a daring, see-through black dress. The gown highlighted her figure and featured black detailing that emphasized her curves.

Maura chose to go braless under her tight-fitting dress, covering up with carefully positioned, detailed embroidered flowers.

While posing for photos on the red carpet, the TV star accidentally revealed a bit of her black lace thong.

She added height with black high heels and kept her jewelry minimal, letting her stunning outfit be the focus.

Geri Halliwell-Horner – 1997

I’ll never forget when Geri Halliwell stepped onto the stage at the 1997 BRIT Awards. That dress – a Union Flag practically skimming the floor – instantly cemented her as a true pop icon, and a fashion legend in my eyes. It was a moment everyone talks about even now!

I’ll never forget seeing that dress! It wasn’t some elaborate designer creation to begin with, you know. It was actually a simple black Gucci dress, but Geri thought it needed something extra. So, she asked her sister to sew a tea towel with the Union Flag right onto the front – it was such a brilliant, bold move and totally made the look!

The dress—so famous it even has a Wikipedia page—helped launch the Spice Girls to stardom and later sold for £41,320 at auction.

Sam Smith – 2023

Sam is known for his bold fashion choices, but he really surprised people in 2023 when he arrived at the event wearing a bright, inflatable latex suit.

The outfit had a high neckline, puffy balloon sleeves, and unusually wide, inflated-looking legs. It closed up the front with a zipper over the chest.

Sam, who identifies as non-binary and prefers they/them pronouns, completed their outfit with platform latex boots and a single statement earring.

Destiny’s Child – 2001

After their hit song “Survivor” became popular, Destiny’s Child celebrated its music video by wearing stylish, matching green outfits to the BRIT Awards.

Beyoncé, Kelly, and Michelle looked amazing together in coordinating outfits made from the same material, but each with a unique style.

Oh my gosh, they weren’t just stunning on the red carpet, they absolutely killed it on stage! The energy was insane, and the crowd went wild – it was everything I ever dreamed of and more! I was completely mesmerized!

Martine McCutcheon – 1999

BRIT Award attendees didn’t know where to look when Martine opted for a very cheeky ensemble.

The actress, known for her role in Love Actually, turned heads in a striking black dress. The gown featured lace detailing and highlighted her figure.

Martine looked like a stylish, up-and-coming pop star at the event, just before her song, “Perfect Moment,” reached the top of the UK music charts.

Lizzo – 2020

Lizzo turned heads in a stunning dress that resembled a giant Hershey’s milk chocolate bar.

The sleeveless top was dark brown and displayed the classic Hershey’s logo, a barcode, and the chocolate’s ingredient list down the side.

Lizzo stunned on the red carpet, completing her outfit with a unique clutch bag featuring a ‘100%’ design. She playfully pretended to bite the bag for photos, adding a fun touch to her look.

Jessie J – 2014

The BRIT Awards are usually held in winter, and the celebrities attending often have to brave the cold on the red carpet.

Yet Jessie J looked near hypothermic when she stepped out with ice blue lipstick.

The singer looked stunning in a tight, low-cut gold outfit, but everyone was focused on her full lips as she posed for photos.

Lady Gaga – 2010

Gaga treated her fans to two stunning looks when she attended the 2010 BRIT Awards.

The singer made a striking appearance on the red carpet, wearing a white, layered dress by Francesco Scognamiglio and a dramatically tall, white pompadour hairstyle.

As soon as I got inside, I quickly changed out of the formal gown. I slipped into this amazing, daring catsuit – it only covered one leg, but had delicate lace details to keep things covered up just enough. It was perfect!

Prince – 1985

Prince was known for his bold and unique style, and he definitely made a statement at the 1985 BRIT Awards.

Prince, known for his song “Purple Rain,” stood out from the crowd in a sparkling sequinned suit. He completed the look with a ruffled shirt and a vibrant pink scarf.

He added to the look with satin white gloves and his hair styled in his trademark curly bouffant.

Denise van Outen – 2000

The early 2000s weren’t exactly a high point for fashion, but Denise’s outfit at the 2000 BRIT Awards looked like something straight from a costume party.

The presenter’s outfit – a lilac and aqua satin combination with red hair – strongly resembled the style of Daphne from Scooby Doo.

Despite everything, she looked fantastic and radiated confidence and joy while having a great time at the event.

Kelly Brook – 1999

Kelly, a glamour model, resembled a character from Moulin Rouge with her striking outfit: a red corset and a short black skirt.

The model, known for her appearances on Page 3, showed off her figure in a revealing outfit, which she wore with a long black fur coat.

Staying true to 1990s fashion, the woman completed her outfit with a choker necklace and delicate, embellished heels.

Ellie Goulding – 2024

For the 2024 show, Ellie Goulding surprised everyone with a bold fashion choice, wearing a large, snow-inspired puffer gown from Moncler Genius – a departure from her typical style.

The eye-catching garment flowed to the floor for her moment in the spotlight.

The singer paired a white dress with a striking coat created through a collaboration between the brand and designer Lulu Li. She completed the look with classic white court shoes and large hoop earrings.

DJ Semtex – 2021

Most celebrities use the BRIT Awards as an opportunity to really showcase their style, but DJ Semtex didn’t seem to follow that trend.

The presenter, dressed casually in a hoodie and jeans, looked like he’d just stepped in from a normal day of errands.

Oh my gosh, even surrounded by all that flash, he was still just…himself. It was amazing! He didn’t try to be anyone else, and honestly, he looked so much more relaxed and genuinely comfortable in what he was wearing than anyone else there. It was perfect, truly perfect!

Carol Vorderman – 2001

Although Carol often wears revealing outfits, she chose a more modest look at the 2001 BRIT Awards.

To stay warm both indoors and outdoors, the Countdown presenter chose a brown satin coat dress and completed her look with a practical, large handbag.

She still added a touch of sex appeal, however, as she slipped into a pair of racy, fishnet tights.

Rita Ora – 2018

Rita looked ready to walk down the aisle at the 2018 BRITs.

The singer, known for her hit song ‘Poison,’ looked radiant in a large, white dress decorated with beautiful feathers arranged in layers.

Rita’s dress was a major hit at the event, proving that you don’t need to be revealing to make a lasting impression.

Rita Ora – 2024

Rita wasn’t just memorable at the 2018 BRITs; she also stood out at the 2024 awards.

The singer made an appearance on the red carpet wearing a grey suit that blurred traditional gender lines, paired with a striped shirt and a pink tie.

The singer accessorized with multiple rings and bracelets featuring a steampunk design, and her blonde hair was styled into a playful, voluminous quiff.

Rita told reporters her outfit is inspired by punk music, and the late David Bowie.

Harry Styles – 2021

At the 2021 BRIT Awards, Harry Styles wore a striking Gucci suit featuring a bold, geometric pattern inspired by 1970s fashion.

Harry wasn’t afraid to make a fashion statement, and he certainly turned heads on the red carpet with his cream-colored shoes and a handbag.

He’s scheduled to perform at the event this year, and fans are excited to see what unique style he showcases.

Whitney Houston – 1999

Most people would struggle to pull of head-to-toe leather, but not the iconic Whitney.

The singer, who passed away recently, performed “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay” at the 1999 BRIT Awards, recreating the look she had in the song’s music video.

Clad in a leather gown with a fitted bodice, Whitney looked sensational as she tore up the stage.

Rihanna – 2024

Rihanna turned heads at the 2024 awards show, making a grand entrance on the red carpet with A$AP Rocky.

Rihanna turned heads in a pale blue, fluffy coat worn over a black dress with a lace train.

The star smiled brightly as she posed with the rapper, completing her outfit with a large, fluffy blue hat and black leather gloves by Paula Rowan.

Bros – 1989

Long before Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake popularized matching outfits as a couple, brothers Luke and Matt Goss of the band Bros were already known for their coordinated style.

Oh my god, you guys, when the brothers showed up at the 1989 BRITs… I nearly fainted! They just commanded the whole room, you know? It was all about the leather jackets and those perfectly ripped jeans. Seriously, they knew exactly how to make an entrance, and it worked. Everyone was staring! It was iconic, I tell you, iconic.

Even their accessories were paired, with the brothers donning matching belts and leather gloves.

Girls Aloud – 2005

Girls Aloud made a stylish entrance at the 2005 BRIT Awards, celebrating their first-ever nomination.

Nicola Roberts, Nadine Coyle, Kimberley Walsh, Sarah Harding, and Cheryl – hoping to win Best Pop Act – arrived on the red carpet wearing matching gold and white outfits.

They may not have won the award but earned themselves a place in red carpet history.

Kate Moss – 2014

I was absolutely floored when Kate walked onto the stage! She completely transformed, looking every bit the rock legend in that incredible Ziggy Stardust jumpsuit – it was like David Bowie himself had come back to life. She just owned the moment!

The model attended the awards ceremony in place of David, who remained in New York. He chose to stay home instead of traveling to accept his award for Best British Male.

Kate had arrived secretly, avoiding the red carpet, to surprise guests at the event.

Billie Piper – 1999

Billie seemed to be channeling the style of 1970s group ABBA with her flared satin jumpsuit.

The striking swimsuit had cut-outs that highlighted her flat stomach, and she completed the look with platform boots to add height.

Though she’s now known for her blonde hair, the Doctor Who actress had a stunning brunette look back in the nineties.

Grace Chatto – 2014

Guests aren’t allowed to bring pets to the event, but Grace from Clean Bandit managed to bring hers anyway.

The musician made a surprising fashion statement at the ceremony, bringing a goldfish in a fishbowl instead of a purse.

She wore a simple white dress to the red carpet event, but made sure everyone noticed her with a unique and eye-catching accessory.

Cher – 1999

Cher, always a glamorous performer, turned heads at the 1999 BRIT Awards with a dazzling silver mini dress.

She added to the look with a bejewelled headpiece worn upon a platinum blonde wig.

To keep warm, Cher completed her outfit with a black cardigan and soft velour trousers.

Daniel Lismore -2019

There was no missing Daniel when he attended the ceremony in one of his ‘wearable art’ outfits.

The British designer wowed everyone with a unique, full-skirted dress made with layers of flowing tulle and surprisingly, even some armour.

Yet it was his headpiece that truly caught the eye – a large perspex bowl balanced upon his skill.

Anastacia – 2002

With the boho trend in full swing, Anastacia went all out at the 2002 BRITs.

The singer, known for her song ‘Sick and Tired,’ showed off a bit of cleavage in a low-cut crochet top. She completed the look with a suede skirt and platform boots.

She completed the look with a patchwork jacket and by styling her blonde locks into cornrows.

Olly Alexander – 2019

Years & Years frontman Olly wowed in a full-length feathered cape at the 2019 ceremony.

The singer looked stunning, but he almost tripped while trying to secure his cloak to the sparkly boots he was wearing. He managed to keep his balance just in time.

He made it work for the cameras, however, swishing his cloak around and posing up a storm.

Amy Winehouse – 2007

Amy’s appearance at the 2007 BRIT Awards is still remembered today. She brightened up the red carpet with her radiant style.

Amy looked amazing in a bright yellow mini dress, completing her outfit with a red heart-shaped handbag and heels.

Her signature tattoos were on display and she stuck with her trademark beehive hairdo.

Arctic Monkeys – 2008

It’s pretty normal for bands to coordinate their outfits, but the Arctic Monkeys surprised fans with what they wore in 2008.

The singers didn’t look much like rock stars on the red carpet; they resembled farmers with their flat caps and tweed jackets, playfully enjoying themselves.

Oh my gosh, you would NOT believe what they did! They were all dressed up, looking amazing, but they completely lost it on stage! They just started chucking their mics into the audience, and then… then they actually TRIED to throw the lectern! Can you even imagine?! It was insane, absolutely insane, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. They’re just… wild, and I love them for it!

Dua Lipa – 2018

Dua Lipa looked like she’d stepped out of a fairytale at the 2018 BRIT Awards, wearing a beautiful, flowing pink gown.

The dress was full and flowing, made with layers of soft tulle and many ruffles. It gracefully highlighted her slender shape and had a long, dramatic train.

Joining the #MeToo movement that gained prominence during awards season, Dua Lipa held a single white rose and playfully posed for photos.

2002: Kylie Minogue

Just a year after turning heads with her iconic white catsuit in the “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” video, Kylie Minogue was once again making waves with her style.

The Australian singer returned to the stage wearing white – specifically, a very flattering corset dress – and completed the look with silver thigh-high boots.

Fans were surprised by Kylie’s red carpet look, as she initially arrived wearing a bulky coat that concealed her outfit.

Katy Perry – 2009

As a style enthusiast, I’ve always admired Katy’s bold and playful approach to fashion. She really showed that side of herself on the red carpet recently, rocking a corset covered in sparkling Hello Kitty details – it was a fun, unexpected look that perfectly embodies her love of unique and cheerful style!

The singer chose a relaxed style, pairing the top with shiny leggings and black heels.

Katy shared that she actually had the flu during the event and spent most of the night feeling unwell and using the restroom.

Victoria Beckham – 1997

Victoria Beckham, known as Posh Spice, caused a stir at the 1997 BRIT Awards when she wore a revealing outfit – a white bikini top and a short mini skirt.

Victoria looked incredible as she showed off her moves while dancing around in towering heels.

Despite appearing calm and confident on stage, Victoria admitted she was actually terrified during the performance. She mistook the sound of popping balloons for gunshots.

Rihanna – 2011

Rihanna is usually a fashion icon, but her outfit choice in 2011 received mixed reactions from fans.

The singer stood out in a striking dress featuring a purple, patterned top and a full, flowing aqua skirt, cinched at the waist with a green sash.

Adding even more colour, Rihanna sported scarlet locks and donned blue heels.

2026-02-28 13:39

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