Star Power And Shocking Fashion Rule 2026 Grammy Awards

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards unfolded in spectacular fashion on February 1, 2026, at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, drawing the world’s music elite to a night brimming with both triumph and spectacle. Hosted for the sixth and final time by comedian Trevor Noah, the ceremony delivered a blend of dazzling performances, headline-making red carpet moments, and a few eyebrow-raising surprises that kept the crowd buzzing from start to finish, according to NBC New York and The Sun.

As fans and photographers lined the arrivals area, the red carpet quickly transformed into a runway of fashion statements and bold risks. Chappell Roan, known for her daring style, stunned onlookers by going completely topless in a sheer burgundy Thierry Mugler gown, held up by just two nipple piercings—a choice that left social media abuzz and some fans wincing in sympathy. As The Sun reported, Roan’s look “left viewers speechless,” with many remarking it “must hurt.” Yet, for Roan, it was a case of less is more—a theme that echoed throughout the night as celebrities pushed the boundaries of red carpet couture.

Elsewhere on the carpet, white, sheer, and latex dominated. Sabrina Carpenter, nominated for an impressive six awards including Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album for her hit "Manchild" and album "Man’s Best Friend," arrived in a white, tiered crystal gown. Her signature blonde locks were styled in loose waves, and she exuded classic Hollywood glamour. Carpenter told E!’s Zuri Hall that her look was “hand beaded by 12 people,” marveling at the craftsmanship behind her ensemble.

Addison Rae, another starlet who turned heads, wore a custom Alaïa gown with a dramatic train and plunging neckline. In a moment that quickly made the rounds online, Rae suffered a minor wardrobe mishap, revealing her undergarments to photographers as she struck a pose. She later revealed she had a hand in designing the gown, which some fans compared to Marilyn Monroe’s iconic white dress.

Justin and Hailey Bieber made their much-anticipated return to the Grammys after a four-year hiatus. The couple coordinated in matching black outfits—Justin in an oversized suit and Hailey in a sleek, strapless gown. Their appearance marked a new chapter, as they smiled for cameras just months after welcoming their first child. Later in the evening, Bieber surprised audiences by performing in nothing but silk underwear, adding another memorable moment to the night’s festivities.

Lady Gaga, never one to shy away from bold statements, opted for a black gown with a high neckline and feather detailing, complemented by bleached hair and eyebrows. Gaga’s evening was golden, as she took home two trophies for her 2025 release "Mayhem": Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Dance/Pop Recording for "Abracadabra." She was also nominated for Record and Song of the Year, cementing her status as one of the night’s most celebrated artists.

The ceremony itself delivered its fair share of surprises and emotional moments. Bad Bunny secured Album of the Year for "Debí Tirar Más Fotos," further solidifying his global superstar status. Kendrick Lamar, alongside SZA, won Record of the Year for their collaboration "Luther," while Billie Eilish’s "Wildflower" earned Song of the Year honors. Olivia Dean, hailed for her breakout performances, was crowned Best New Artist—a win that many critics and fans alike saw as well-deserved.

The full list of winners showcased the diversity and dynamism of today’s music scene. Lola Young’s "Messy" won Best Pop Solo Performance, while Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s "Defying Gravity" took home Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. The dance and electronic categories saw Tame Impala and FKA Twigs emerge victorious, with Twigs’ "Eusexua" winning Best Dance/Electronic Album. Laufey’s "A Matter Of Time" was recognized as Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, and Natalia Lafourcade’s "Cancionera" won Best Latin Pop Album.

Rock and alternative music were also well represented. Turnstile clinched both Best Rock Album and Best Metal Performance, while The Cure’s "Songs Of A Lost World" and "Alone" were honored as Best Alternative Music Album and Performance, respectively. Kendrick Lamar’s "GNX" was named Best Rap Album, and Tyla’s "Push 2 Start" took the inaugural Best African Music Performance award.

Not every artist, however, left the arena satisfied. The Weeknd, Lorde, and Shawn Mendes were among the most notable snubs, with their critically acclaimed albums failing to secure any nominations. As The Sun pointed out, The Weeknd’s "Hurry Up Tomorrow" was “completely shut out despite strong reviews and hit singles,” reigniting debate over the Recording Academy’s selection process and representation of international stars. Lorde’s "Virgin" and Mendes’ self-titled comeback album were similarly overlooked, surprising fans and industry insiders alike.

Other red carpet standouts included Zara Larsson, who performed at the Grammys Premiere Ceremony in a sparkling yellow gown inspired by her album "Midnight Sun." Larsson told E! that it took “a dozen people” to assemble her show-stopping look. Tyla, who won her first Grammy, arrived in a feathered DSquared2 gown with gold embellishments, while K-Pop star Rosé made her solo debut in a dramatic black mini dress with a white bubble half-skirt, accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewelry.

Don Lemon, recently released from jail, walked the carpet with partner Tim Malone, all smiles despite the recent headlines. Michelle Williams made her first Grammys appearance in 20 years, donning a black and sheer Jean-Louis Sabaji gown with gold embellishments. FKA Twigs, already a winner that night, wore a whimsical Paola Carzana gown, telling the crowd during her acceptance speech, “Follow your vision, do you, because that’s what’s gonna make the world fall in love with your art.”

For all the glitz and glamour, the 68th Grammys were also a reminder of the evolving landscape of music and celebrity. Beyoncé, Alison Krauss, and Stevie Wonder remain the top Grammy-winning singers in history, but new stars like Billie Eilish and Lady Gaga continue to climb the ranks. The event, with its mix of celebration and controversy, fashion risks and musical milestones, ensured that music’s biggest night lived up to its reputation—leaving fans already speculating about what next year might bring.