The 2025 MTV VMAs are just around the corner, and obviously, this year’s ceremony will be unlike any other. Hosted by the unstoppable LL Cool J, this year’s show has a packed schedule with memorable performances including Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, Doja Cat, Sabrina Carpenter, and many others.

So, in honor of all the star-studded night ahead, we’re taking a deep dive down memory lane with the craziest VMA looks since 1984 — you know, like that time Lady Gaga showed up wearing pieces of raw meat.

As you’ll soon see, the VMAs are a place to push fashion to new heights and embrace drama on every level. Starting from 1984, here are all the VMA looks we just couldn’t forget.

A version of this story was originally published in 2020.

The Backstreet Boys, 1998

The whole gang was there in 1998 —

See Full Page