Celebrity Style

The 19 Best Grammys Red Carpet Looks Of All Time

In preparation for this year's show.

by Avery Matera
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Originally Published: 
LOS ANGELES - FEBRUARY 23:  Singer Jennifer Lopez backstage at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards, Februa...
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This season’s Grammy Awards will — for the first time in two years — look much like the in-person awards show that you remember. With the 2020 show falling just before the world closed down and 2021’s operating as a virtual production, the music world is back for 2022 and ready for action.

The red carpet at the Grammy Awards is known for its opulence. Artists from all over the world gather to celebrate music and, in keeping with the energetic theme, they all dress the part. Celebs pull out all the stops when it comes to the outfits, crafting looks that will ensure they stand out and secure a spot on the best-dressed (or worst dressed) lists.

Every year, the Grammys delivers that elusive fashion ‘wow’ factor. On red carpets past, there have been totally nude gowns, brightly colored suiting, and extravagant headdresses. In short, artists at the Grammys are invited to let loose, have fun, and embrace creativity with abandon — much like they do with their music.

As the world gears up for a Grammys that’s rife with celebrities ready to get their celebration on, let’s take a trip down memory lane and look back at the best outfits throughout the years.

1974: Cher

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Cher was the epitome of ‘70s style in a halter bandeau top with an embellished butterfly (matching the one on her head) with a sheer wrap on top.

1983: Barbra Streisand

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Talk about a full-blown ‘80s look. Barbra Streisand posed with her brand-new Grammy Award wearing a gold metallic coat that was truly representative of the decade’s bold fashion.

1984: Michael Jackson

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In 1984, Michael Jackson chose a military-inspired jacket — as was his signature — embellished all over with navy and gold sequins.

1994: Whitney Houston

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Whitney Houston accepted her 1994 Grammy wearing a white gown that represented minimalism at its best — plus, a little added glamour thanks to its allover embellishment.

1997: Aretha Franklin

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Aretha Franklin proved that the embellished gowns and over-the-top furs are a timeless staple at the Grammys. This look was nearly na exact copy of the look she wore to the show in 1990, 7 years earlier.

1997: Celine Dion

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Celine Dion was one of the first Grammy Award winners to champion the sheer dress. This one boasted a see-through diamond crochet pattern, showing off briefs underneath.

2000: Jennifer Lopez

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The most iconic Grammys look of all time easily goes to Jennifer Lopez’s tropical-print Versace dress. It was a look that she later re-created for the designer’s runway show for Spring 2020.

2001: Destiny’s Child

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In the early 2000s, Destiny’s Child was known for always coordinating their looks, without fully twinning. Take for example: this trio of green lace gowns.

2005: Sheryl Crow

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Sheryl Crow turned heads at the 2005 Grammy Awards, wearing a bright yellow dress from Roberto Cavalli that was totally cut out on one side. It represented a huge trend of the decade as well — and one that’s coming back now.

2006: Christina Aguilera

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Christina Aguilera looked like the epitome of Old Hollywood glamour. Her silk slip dress evoked images of true 1920s boudoir-inspired fashion.

2010: Lady Gaga

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Lady Gaga went for a futuristic look from Armani Privé, in a dress that looked more like a sculpture than clothing. Beneath, she wore an embellished nude bodysuit.

2013: Taylor Swift

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Taylor Swift went chic and sophisticated, dressing in a white gown designed by J. Mendel. The look, embellished with metallic bands, was reminiscent of a Roman goddess.

2013: Beyoncé

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Beyoncé can rock an epic gown better than most, but the year that she wore a jumpsuit to the Grammys will live on in history.

2015: Rihanna

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Though Rihanna’s look is generally more edgy, she chose a giant pink Giambattista Valli Couture tulle confection for the 2015 Grammys.

2017: Jennifer Lopez

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Though J.Lo has too many killer Grammys looks to count, this Ralph & Russo gown is a notable stunner. With a plunging neckline reminiscent of her 2000s Versace dress and an up-to-there slit, the gown provided all the necessary dramatic.

2020: Dua Lipa

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Dua Lipa went for a sleek ‘90s vibe, choosing a matching slip skirt and bustier camisole in matching white satin.

2020: Lizzo

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On the last hosted red carpet, Lizzo went for an Old Hollywood glam look from Versace. She stunned in a strapless white gown, styled with a giant fur stole and simple diamond jewelry.

2020: Billy Porter

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Sure, Billy Porter’s embellished ensemble was a head-turner all on its own, but then he accessorized with a matching hat. When I tell you jaws dropped.

2020: Ariana Grande

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Ariana Grande had her own princess moment, wearing a stormy tulle creation from Giambattista Valli.

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