Some stars don’t just walk a red carpet, they rewrite pop culture with every step.
Jennifer Lopez’s stunning dress was so popular, it actually prompted Google to update how it displays image search results.
Lady Gaga’s bold fashion statement went beyond just being surprising – it ignited a global debate about art, women’s rights, and how we treat animals.
Oh my gosh, did you SEE Sydney Sweeney last week? She was absolutely incredible at the Variety Power Of Women event! She wore this breathtaking, sheer silver dress – it was stunning! But it wasn’t just the dress, you know? She spoke so bravely about dealing with being objectified, and it was so powerful. I’m just…wow. She’s amazing.
It’s hard to believe red carpet history only began 103 years ago.
Someone can become incredibly famous very quickly, as Elizabeth Hurley did when she overshadowed her then-boyfriend, Hugh Grant, at the premiere of ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ with a memorable fashion choice.
Celebrities often try to get more attention by being shocking or provocative, and that’s why Angelina Jolie is mentioned twice in this list.
For decades, the red carpet has been Hollywood’s biggest platform, a place where glamour mixes with unexpected moments and bold statements.
As the year closes, The Daily Mail looked back at the events that captured our attention and became significant moments in history.
Jennifer Lopez’s Versace Jungle Dress (2000 Grammys)
Okay, so you HAVE to understand. When JLo stepped onto the Grammys red carpet in that Versace dress… it was EVERYTHING. Seriously, that shimmering green silk chiffon? I was instantly obsessed! Everyone was talking about it, and I, like millions of others, immediately ran to Google to find pictures. It was insane because at first, the photos weren’t even up yet! The internet was practically breaking trying to keep up with the demand. It was the moment I knew I was a JLo stan for life.
Within weeks, engineers created Google Images to meet the demand.
Lopez didn’t just redefine celebrity fashion; she changed how we interact with technology itself.
The dress remains one of the most powerful intersections of pop culture and innovation ever.
Matt Stone and Trey Parker Drop Acid and Do Drag (2000 Oscars)
In a famously rebellious move, the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, shocked the 2000 Academy Awards. Parker was nominated for Best Original Song for “Blame Canada,” but lost to Phil Collins. To protest, they arrived at the ceremony after taking LSD and wearing dresses.
Trey dressed up as Jennifer Lopez in her famous green Versace dress, complete with a wig, while Matt Stone imitated Gwyneth Paltrow’s pink Ralph Lauren gown. Despite the outfits, both men pretended they weren’t wearing dresses during the interview.
Parker remembered in a documentary that she had to come down from an acid trip while actually sitting in the audience at the Oscars.
You’re feeling awful, and on top of that, you have to watch the Oscars, which are really not good.
Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress (2010 VMAs)
Lady Gaga’s outfit, designed by Franc Fernandez, was crafted completely from raw flank steak. It was intended as both a statement and a form of artistic expression.
She wore the item as a protest against the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy of the U.S. military, but it soon sparked controversy worldwide, drawing attention from both animal rights advocates and art experts.
The ‘meat dress’ became a symbol of rebellion, audacity, and self-definition.
Today, it’s carefully preserved in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a tangible reminder of a vibrant part of our cultural past.
Cher’s Bejeweled Bob Mackie Naked Dress (1986 Oscars)
When the Academy didn’t recognize her work, Cher famously showed up to their party wearing an outfit that was a glamorous mix of mythical goddess and dazzling showgirl.
I’ll never forget it – her dress was absolutely breathtaking! It was a shimmering, almost-nothing Bob Mackie creation, covered in sequins, and she paired it with this incredible, huge feathered headpiece. Honestly, it threw all the traditional Hollywood glamour rules right out the window, and it was amazing.
Ultimately, it cemented her place in fashion royalty and Bob Mackie became a legend.
Elizabeth Hurley’s Versace Safety-Pin Dress (1994)
Elizabeth Hurley caused a sensation at the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral when she wore a daring black Versace dress held together with large gold safety pins. It instantly became iconic.
The dress instantly made her a worldwide sensation, changing her from being known simply as Hugh Grant’s girlfriend, and it launched Gianni Versace to international fame.
Björk’s Swan Dress (2001 Oscars)
Björk’s iconic swan dress, designed by Marjan Pejoski, and her daring performance of ‘laying an egg’ on the red carpet completely changed the game when it came to fashion risks at public events.
Although it was initially ridiculed, the style is now celebrated as an icon of artistic expression and unconventional femininity.
What was once considered a fashion disaster is now praised for being unique.
Pink and Shakira Don the Same Dress (2009 MTV VMAS)
Celebrities often coordinate outfits for performances or publicity, but when Pink and Shakira both wore the same dress at the 2009 MTV VMAs, it was a total coincidence.
The two women, ages 46 and 48, playfully posed for photos together after both wearing the same black chain-link dress by Balmain. One is from Pennsylvania, and the other is from Colombia.
Pink (born Alecia Moore) told Us Weekly at the time: ‘She’s hot! I think it’s hilarious!’
Taylor Swift’s Misogyny Clapback (2015 Grammys)
When a reporter playfully asked if she’d be leaving with many male companions, Taylor Swift gave a memorable response: ‘I’m planning to spend time with my friends, and then head home to my cats.’
She handled the high-pressure situation with poise and offered a clear preview of her strong and empowering beliefs.
Angelina Jolie’s Black Velvet Gown (2012 Oscars)
All she did was stand, but her stance changed everything.
Jolie’s thigh-high slit in black Versace spawned an entire internet phenomenon known as ‘The Leg.’
It was incredible! Within just a few hours, her pose had completely taken over the internet. I saw memes popping up everywhere, tons of fake Twitter accounts pretending to be her, and even serious articles analyzing what she did. It was like the whole world was talking about it – it really showed how much of an impact she made.
Angelina Jolie Kisses Her Brother (2000 Globes)
I remember when Angelina Jolie was really making headlines for being a bit of a rebel, and the photos of her kissing her brother James Haven just exploded everywhere. Every single camera at the event seemed to go off at once – it was a truly shocking moment that everyone talked about for ages.
The photo scandalized the industry and cemented her as Hollywood’s most unpredictable icon.
Billy Porter’s Tuxedo Gown (2019 Oscars)
Christian Siriano’s daring design, a mix of tuxedo and ball gown, made a bold statement about gender expression at a very classic event like the red carpet.
Rick Porter’s unique style didn’t simply challenge existing norms—it completely changed them, paving the way for greater representation and influence of LGBTQ+ identities in mainstream Hollywood.
Timothée Chalamet Goes Backless in Halter (2022 Bones and All premiere)
At the 2022 Venice Film Festival, 29-year-old Oscar nominee Timothée Chalamet challenged traditional expectations for male leads by wearing a backless outfit to the premiere of his film, Bones and All.
The red halter jumpsuit was designed by Timmy’s buddy Haider Ackermann.
Zendaya’s Robot Body Armor (2024 Dune premiere)
Over the past 14 years, Zendaya and her stylist, Law Roach, have experimented with many different fashion choices. However, their boldest and most memorable look was at the London premiere of the movie Dune last year.
The 29-year-old Emmy winner made a bold fashion statement wearing a vintage Thierry Mugler catsuit. The outfit, originally from the Fall/Winter 1995 couture collection, was designed to look like robotic armor inspired by the movie Metropolis.
This moment solidified her change from a teen star on Disney Channel into a respected figure in the world of high fashion, known for her style and ability to connect with audiences.
Britney Spears & Justin Timberlake’s Matching Denim (2001 AMAs)
Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s iconic all-denim outfits perfectly captured the over-the-top style and energy of teen pop in the early 2000s.
Even after twenty years, this look still inspires fun, retro-themed outfits for couples on the red carpet and is a favorite Halloween costume idea.
Celine Dion’s Backwards Tuxedo (1999 Oscars)
Celine flipped fashion when she wore her Dior tuxedo backward.
At first, people didn’t understand it, but fashion experts now recognize it as a groundbreaking and forward-thinking exploration of gender expression.
Sydney Sweeney (2025 Variety’s Power Of Women event)
Sydney Sweeney made a striking impression at Variety’s Power Of Women event, wearing a see-through dress at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
Although Sweeney received applause for her speech, the online response was much harsher. Many people criticized her, claiming she undermined her message against objectification by wearing a very revealing dress.
Sharon Stone’s White Gap Shirt (1998 Oscars)
At the 1998 Oscars, where everyone else wore elaborate designer dresses and jewelry, Sharon Stone stood out by wearing a simple, white button-down shirt from the Gap.
Wearing a lavender Vera Wang skirt and radiating her trademark cool confidence, Sharon Stone’s outfit challenged the typical, exclusive style seen on the red carpet.
Kim Kardashian (Met Gala 2022)
Kim Kardashian received widespread criticism for wearing Marilyn Monroe’s iconic and delicate dress from her 1962 performance for President Kennedy. Many people were upset by her choice.
It’s a full-circle moment: a reality TV star who became a billionaire is now living the glamorous Hollywood life she was once ridiculed for wanting.
Honestly, I was absolutely livid! Can you believe they took Marilyn’s dress – her actual dress – out of its perfect, safe environment just to show it off for some silly carpet unveiling? It’s a priceless piece of history, a work of art, and they treated it like a prop! As a lifelong fan, it felt like a total disrespect, and I know so many other devotees felt the same way. The thought of anything happening to it just because of a carpet… it was infuriating!
Margot Robbie’s Barbie Press-Tour (2023)
Often, promotional tours help sell a movie. But Margot Robbie’s tour for Barbie didn’t just promote the film—it became the movie, and a huge cultural moment all on its own.
With the help of stylist Andrew Mukamal, Robbie turned each red carpet appearance into a celebration of fashion, expertly recreating classic Barbie outfits with high-fashion detail.
Her most stunning look was at the Los Angeles premiere, where she wore a dazzling, custom-made black Schiaparelli gown. The dress, featuring a flowing fishtail shape, a pink handkerchief, and a single long glove, perfectly recreated the iconic ‘Solo in the Spotlight’ Barbie doll from 1960.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky (Met Gala 2021)
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky turned heads at the Met Gala when he arrived wearing a vintage quilt as a fashion statement.
Rihanna made a grand entrance on the red carpet with a dramatic Balenciaga coat and sparkling headpiece, but her companion’s outfit also quickly became a major talking point.
The quilt he presented wasn’t actually handmade; it turned out to be a thrift store find from a family in Southern California. ERL designer Eli Russell Linnetz then transformed it into a high-fashion piece.
The woman who originally created the item gave it away to a vintage store, with no idea it would eventually be featured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Megan Fox’s Naked Dress Comeback (2021 VMAs)
After a long break from public life, Megan Fox made a striking comeback wearing a very revealing Mugler dress.
Her outfit sparked a revival of the ‘naked dress’ style and showcased Megan Fox as a self-assured woman taking control of her own story after her split from Brian Austin Green.
Zac Efron’s Condom Slip (2012 Lorax Premiere)
On an orange carpet for a children’s movie, Efron dropped a condom while greeting fans.
He later joked he’d learned to ‘check pockets before premieres.’
Awkward? Absolutely. Unforgettable? Definitely.
Blake Lively’s Statue of Liberty Reveal (2022 Met Gala)
Blake Lively is widely considered a ‘queen of the Met Gala’ for a reason.
Blake Lively amazed everyone at the Met Gala when her seemingly copper Versace dress dramatically changed color, becoming a stunning oxidized green.
Jerry Seinfeld Rejects Kesha’s Hug (2017)
It lasted three seconds but became eternal internet gold.
At a charity event at the Kennedy Center, Kesha went in for a hug, but Jerry Seinfeld politely declined, holding his arms back.
Kim Kardashian Gets Flour-Bombed (2012)
During the launch of her perfume, Kim Kardashian was covered in flour thrown by an animal rights protester. She handled the situation calmly, brushed off the flour, changed her clothes, and went back to complete the event.
I’ll never forget when Kim Kardashian truly cemented her status as a force to be reckoned with. It was incredible to watch her navigate a really tough situation with such poise and confidence – and she did it all in heels! It felt like a turning point, the moment everyone realized she was absolutely unflappable.
Anjelica Huston’s Lucky Green Gown (Oscars 1986)
Unlike many modern stars with large teams to help them get ready, older celebrities often had to be more resourceful. For example, Anjelica Huston went the extra mile for her 1986 gown, personally purchasing the emerald-green fabric and working with designer Tzetzi Ganev to create the unique, one-sleeved dress.
The 74-year-old actress, who was raised in Ireland, wore a lucky green dress when she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She received the award for her performance in Prizzi’s Honor, a film directed by her father, John Huston.
Douglas Fairbanks Kicks Off a New Era of Hollywood Pageantry (1922 Robin Hood premiere)
The very first Hollywood red carpet event happened in 1922 at the opening of Grauman’s Egyptian Theatre. It celebrated the premiere of the silent film Robin Hood, which starred Douglas Fairbanks, and was presented by United Artists.
As a lifelong fan of classic Hollywood, I’ll always remember that moment as the start of something truly special. It wasn’t just a movie premiere; it was an explosion of glamour! Seeing all the stars, the incredible fashion, and the constant flash of cameras – plus the long lines of cars and the excited cheers of the crowd – it felt like a whole new level of spectacle had arrived in Tinseltown. It was pure magic.
Read More
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Sora Guide: Best Build, Emblem and Gameplay Tips
- Clash Royale Best Boss Bandit Champion decks
- Best Hero Card Decks in Clash Royale
- All Brawl Stars Brawliday Rewards For 2025
- Best Arena 9 Decks in Clast Royale
- Brawl Stars December 2025 Brawl Talk: Two New Brawlers, Buffie, Vault, New Skins, Game Modes, and more
- Clash Royale Witch Evolution best decks guide
- Vampire’s Fall 2 redeem codes and how to use them (June 2025)
- Call of Duty Mobile: DMZ Recon Guide: Overview, How to Play, Progression, and more
- Clash Royale December 2025: Events, Challenges, Tournaments, and Rewards
2025-12-24 17:38