The air buzzed with excitement as the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) unfolded on November 10, marking its historic debut at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester. This year's red carpet attracted A-listers across the music and fashion realms, showcasing everything from breathtaking gowns to eye-catching streetwear.
Leading the glamorous affair was Rita Ora. The British singer, who also hosted the event for the third time, dazzled attendees wearing a stunning dusty pink gown adorned with feathers from renowned designer Ashi Studio. Ora’s presence was palpable, not only through her fashion choices but also her emotional tribute to her late friend Liam Payne, calling him "one of the kindest people I knew." Throughout the evening, she wowed the audience with several outfit changes, even adopting sporty chic with a trendy adidas track jacket and stellar silver fembot getup.
Meanwhile, Maya Jama embraced nostalgia, channeling the iconic 90s look once made famous by Elizabeth Hurley, showcasing her vibrant fashion sense. Her homage was not lost on fans familiar with red carpet history—truly hitting the mark with flair and timely surprises.
One to steal the spotlight was Chloe Kelly, fresh from her successes on the field. She flaunted her fashion prowess with matching hot pants and bandeau styled with oversized outerwear from the avant-garde Georgian designer David Koma, pairing them perfectly with thigh-high boots. This combination of sport and style showcased her versatility as both an athlete and fashionista.
Jodie Turner-Smith graced the red carpet with elegance in a stunning royal blue gown by designer Robert Wun. Featuring exquisite draping and complemented by matching gloves and a structural headpiece, her ensemble was praised as timeless sophistication, turning heads as she made her way through the event.
Emerging South African star Tyla made waves not just for her achievements but also through her fashion choice of the evening—a vibrant animal print gown by Roberto Cavalli, reflecting the spirit of R&B artist Aaliyah. Her style notes echoed stunning performance talents as she took home awards for Best R&B Act, Best African Act, and Best Afrobeats Act.
Following suit, fellow artist Raye celebrated with her elegantly dark-gold gown flaunting rich embroidery on its hemline. The British singer clinched the award for Best UK & Ireland Act, and her red carpet look matched her status as one of the night’s standout performances.
Among the sports elite, footballer Alex Greenwood struck the perfect balance of chic and sophistication, donning a stylishly simple wide-leg suit accentuated with delicately styled accessories. This modern twist on classic formal wear reaffirmed the growing presence of athletes at high-profile fashion events.
The diverse attendee list didn’t stop there. Celebrity guests like Vick Hope caught attention with her sculpted bodice gown featuring daring thigh-high slits, proving yet again how fashion allows for dynamic forms of self-expression.
Despite the stellar fashions, not everyone hit the mark. Several celebrities made headlines for their daring but puzzling clothing choices. Northern Irish rapper Jordan Adetunji's burnt orange and brown ensemble was considered less than flattering, as was Teddy Swims' vibrant red tartan suit which seemed more chaotic than chic. Presenter Harriet Rose sparked debates with her strange sheer gown layered over floral crop tops—a bold statement for the night.
Even under the scrutiny of fashion critics, the red carpet brims with varied interpretations of style as attendees celebrate individual expressions. The 2024 MTV EMAS exemplified the fluid nature of fashion within music culture. With its star-studded lineup and unforgettable performances, expectations for next year’s event are undoubtedly soaring.
This year’s EMAS not only showcased artistry through music but highlighted fashion as one of its core elements, allowing stars to communicate more than just their craft—but also their identity and personality through stylish endeavors. One can only wonder what next year's red carpet will yield, as trends continue to evolve with the artists and their messages.
