Obviously, stars have displayed some crazy ensembles at the VMAs, like Rose McGowan’s nearly naked dress in 1998 and Lil’ Kim’s basically bare boob at the 1999 show. These looks are noteworthy, but it’s time we shed light on some of the weirdest accessories that have accompanied their ensembles. Some that might come to mind immediately are Lady Gaga’s meat purse from 2010 (“Cher, will you hold my meat purse?”) and Lil Mama’s crystal pacifier in 2007.
But there also a handful that you probably forgot about over the years. For example, Kanye West carried an open bottle of Hennessy onto the red carpet (and imbibed all the while) at the 2009 VMAs. And Pamela Anderson’s big fuzzy hat was a hot topic at the 1999 awards show — and again in 2018, when Kim Kardashian recreated the outfit for Halloween.
Though, there’s one fashion accessory that’s truly over the top: reptiles. And yet, multiple stars can’t get enough of the living, breathing ensemble add-ons. Britney Spears was the first to wrap one around herself like a feather boa in 2011, when she performed at the awards show wearing booty shorts and a Burmese python. Tana Mongeau and H.E.R. recreated the singer’s iconic look by bringing the creatures onto the VMA red carpet in 2019.
Keep scrolling to check out some of the most unforgettable red carpet VMAs fashion accessories through the years!
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