Chappell Roan, the reigning Best New Artist, once again found herself at the center of attention at the 2026 Grammy Awards—this time not just for her music, but for her bold red carpet fashion choice.
The Grammy winners were announced Sunday night in Los Angeles, marking one of the biggest events in the global music industry. As has increasingly become the case, the ceremony blended entertainment, fashion, and politics into a single high-profile spectacle.
Several artists—including Bad Bunny, Olivia Dean, Shaboozey, and Gloria Estefan—used their moments on stage to comment on immigration enforcement policies tied to the Trump administration. Meanwhile, outside the venue, the red carpet was generating just as much discussion.
A Fashion Statement That Divided the Internet
Roan arrived wearing a sheer maroon Mugler gown, secured with metallic chest rings. The look was a modern reinterpretation of Manfred Thierry Mugler’s 1998 “Jeu de Paume” collection, updated for Spring/Summer 2026 by designer Miguel Castro Freitas.
While some fashion critics applauded the archival inspiration and couture craftsmanship, the outfit quickly sparked heated debate across social media platforms.
Several viewers criticized the revealing nature of the dress, calling it inappropriate for a televised awards show. Others expressed frustration with what they see as a growing trend of shock-driven red carpet fashion, arguing that award ceremonies should maintain clearer standards of dress.
Part of a Larger Celebrity Fashion Trend
Roan’s look, along with similar outfits worn by Heidi Klum earlier that evening, was viewed by critics as part of an ongoing trend of sheer, skin-baring couture that has gained momentum since 2025.
High-profile celebrities such as Julia Fox, Florence Pugh, Bianca Censori, Teyana Taylor, Kristen Stewart, and Dakota Johnson have all embraced variations of the aesthetic in recent years. Johnson previously addressed backlash over revealing fashion by saying she was unconcerned with public criticism.
Still, many viewers remain vocal in their opposition, arguing that such outfits prioritize attention over artistry and shift focus away from musical achievement.
Fans Rush to Roan’s Defense
Not everyone disapproved. A number of fans defended Roan’s fashion choice, praising her confidence, individuality, and commitment to theatrical self-expression. Supporters argued that the look was memorable, intentional, and consistent with her artistic persona.
Known for elaborate visuals and boundary-pushing style, Roan has built a reputation for fashion that challenges convention. Her Grammys appearance followed a similar approach she took at the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, where she paid tribute to Cyndi Lauper with a look packed with symbolic references recognizable to longtime fans.
For the Grammys, Roan was styled by Los Angeles-based stylist Genesis Webb, drawing inspiration from Lauper’s True Colors era. The ensemble featured dramatic silhouettes, vintage accessories, and a custom headpiece designed to echo theatrical pop history.
A Career Still on the Rise
Despite the controversy, Roan continues to dominate the music conversation. She remains a strong contender for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance for “The Subway.” She is also scheduled to present during the ceremony.
Last year, Roan won Best New Artist for her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess and earned five additional nominations, including three for her breakout hit “Good Luck, Babe!”
Whether viewed as bold artistic expression or unnecessary provocation, Chappell Roan’s sheer Mugler gown has ensured one thing: her Grammy appearance will be talked about long after the final award is handed out.
Is it high-fashion artistry or shock value taken too far? The debate continues—and the internet isn’t staying quiet.