Madonna opens the 2026 VMAs tonight, her first performance at the show in 23 years, and she arrives as the most-nominated artist of the night with 11 nods. That includes Video of the Year for“Confessions II – The Film”and Song of the Year for“Bring Your Love”with Sabrina Carpenter. Rumored special guests include Charli XCX and Sabrina Carpenter.
If you want the quickest crash course in why she still matters, look at what she has worn on that stage. In 1984 she descended a 17-foot wedding cake in a lace bustier, veil, and“Boy Toy”belt styled by Maripol. In 1990 she performed“Vogue”in an 18th-century gown previously worn by Glenn Close in Dangerous Liaisons. In 2003 she played groom to Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera’s brides, a direct callback to the cake. Then came Tom Ford-era Gucci, menswear, an Amazigh-inspired ensemble, and a 2021 latex-and-leather dominatrix look.
What makes tonight more than a nostalgia play is the mix of eras in the room. A pop legend opening the show, a Gen Z favorite possibly sharing the stage, and 42 years of looks behind it. It is the rare awards show moment that everyone in the house can argue about.
Which Madonna VMAs look is the all-time best? Tell us in the comments.
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Local Lawton
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