Ariana Grande made a dazzling comeback at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, turning heads in one of the evening’s most memorable red carpet looks. Styled by Law Roach, Grande embraced fall’s riskiest trend—polka dots—while infusing the ensemble with elegance, nostalgia, and whimsical flair.
5 Key Highlights of Grande’s Look
A Bold Polka-Dot Statement
Grande’s strapless custom Fendi gown featured a sleek black base covered in striking white polka dots. A soft baby-pink peplum ruffle at the waist added romantic dimension, balancing sophistication with playful femininity.
Vintage Inspiration Revived
The gown drew inspiration from a 1980s design by Silvia Venturini Fendi, blending retro charm with contemporary polish. The mix of nostalgia and modernity made the look runway-worthy while tapping into fashion’s cyclical trends.
Coordinated Accessories & Hairstyle
Ariana paired the gown with black satin open-toe heels and tied a matching polka-dot bow into her signature high ponytail. Her beauty look—glowy skin, shimmering eyeshadow, and pink lips—softened the bold ensemble, creating cohesive elegance.
A Red Carpet Comeback
This appearance marked Grande’s first time at the VMAs red carpet in five years. The bold peplum-polished look doubled as both a fashion risk and a symbolic return to the spotlight.
Divisive Fashion Risk
Reactions were split. While InStyle and Glamour applauded the whimsical sophistication, some critics labeled the look “too cutesy” compared to the night’s edgier ensembles. Still, the daring choice sparked widespread conversation.
Fashion in Context
- Trend-Forward Elegance: Polka dots are making a powerful runway comeback, and Grande’s gown embraced the revival with Hollywood glam energy.
- Strategic Comeback: After years away from the VMAs, her look reinforced her image as a daring yet polished trendsetter.
- Standing Out Among Peers: With a red carpet filled with sheer gowns and avant-garde styles, Grande’s refined risk-taking kept her in the spotlight.
Conclusion
Ariana Grande’s 2025 VMAs look—a custom Fendi gown styled with bold polka dots and soft pink peplum—was equal parts nostalgic and fashion-forward. While divisive, it cemented her comeback as both a performer and a red carpet risk-taker unafraid to blend elegance with trend-defying choices.
