Sabrina Carpenter’s Bold Red Carpet Rebirth: How She Turned Controversy Into Couture at the 2025 VMAs

The first time I heard Sabrina Carpenter declare, “Deal with me, bitches,” at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, I knew we were witnessing more than just a red carpet moment—we were seeing a pop star rewrite her narrative. After a summer of headlines questioning her “sexytime” image-making and the provocative cover of Man’s Best Friend, Carpenter could’ve played it safe. Instead, she stepped onto the UBS Arena carpet in a Valentino Fall 2025 gown that fused Old Hollywood glamour with unapologetic edge—a masterclass in how to turn controversy into couture.

Carpenter’s look was a study in contrasts, starting with the gown itself: a semi-sheer, floor-length dress adorned with intricate red sequin embroidery that hugged her frame like a second skin. The fabric, a blend of tulle and lace, had the ethereal quality of Parisian couture—think the delicate handiwork of a atelier where every stitch tells a story. The high neckline and long sleeves added a touch of modesty, but the sheer panels (strategically placed to avoid vulgarity) kept it modern, echoing the risk-taking spirit of Italian design houses like Versace in the ’90s.

What elevated the look from “stunning” to “unforgettable” was the lilac marabou boa draped over her shoulders and cascading down her arms. Marabou, that fluffy, retro fabric beloved by divas from Marilyn Monroe to Cher, injected a dose of campy glamour—but here, it wasn’t just a accessory. It was a statement: Carpenter wasn’t hiding from the “controversy” around her; she was leaning into it, turning a potential liability into a bold fashion choice. The boa’s soft lavender hue clashed (in the best way) with the gown’s fiery red, creating a visual tension that demanded attention—much like her music and public persona these days.

Accessories? Minimal but mighty. Tiffany & Co. platinum diamond earrings and ring added a touch of timeless elegance, grounding the look without overshadowing the gown. Her nails, painted in a gradient of OPI shades (Malaga Wine and Bare My Soul), and makeup (a smoky eye paired with a nude lip) completed the ensemble—proof that even in maximalist fashion, balance is key.

Styling Cohesion: Where Drama Meets Discipline

Stylist Jared Ellner deserves credit for walking a fine line. The gown alone is a work of art—Valentino’s Fall 2025 collection, which drew inspiration from 19th-century opera and surrealist art, was all about blending tradition with rebellion. Adding the boa could’ve veered into costume territory, but Ellner’s choice to drape it strategically (not just slung over one shoulder, but wrapped around both arms) gave it intentionality. It wasn’t a gimmick—it was a conversation starter.

That said, I’ll admit I agree with the source’s quibble: the neckline and sheer panels did call for an updo. Carpenter’s loose waves, while romantic, got lost against the gown’s intricate details. A sleek chignon or braided crown would’ve highlighted the dress’s architecture, making the look feel even more cohesive. As for the boa? Love the drama, but maybe next time, pair it with a simpler silhouette—let the feathers breathe.

Cultural Impact: From “Pop Flash” to “Here to Stay”

Carpenter’s choice of Valentino is no accident. The Italian house, helmed by Pierpaolo Piccioli, has long been a favorite of stars seeking to merge heritage with edge—think Lady Gaga’s 2019 Met Gala look or Billie Eilish’s recent couture turns. For Carpenter, wearing Valentino signals two things: first, that she’s graduated from “pop flash” to “fashion fixture”; second, that she understands the power of aligning with a brand that values craftsmanship as much as controversy.

Her statement at the VMAs—“Deal with me, bitches”—wasn’t just a clapback to critics. It was a fashion manifesto. In an era where pop stars are often reduced to their image, Carpenter used her outfit to say: I’m not defined by my past, and I’m not afraid to evolve. The red sequins? They’re bold, but not brash. The boa? Campy, but not cheap. Together, they tell a story of growth—one that resonates beyond the red carpet.

The Verdict: Is It Chic? Yes. Is It Unforgettable? Absolutely.

Sabrina Carpenter’s 2025 VMA look isn’t just a dress—it’s a declaration. She took risks (the sheer panels, the boa) and reaped rewards (headlines that talked about her style, not just her controversies). Could it have been tweaked? Sure. But that’s the beauty of fashion: it’s not about perfection, it’s about personality. And Carpenter’s personality? It shines brighter than any sequin.

As we head into awards season, one thing’s clear: Carpenter is here to stay. And if this look is any indication, she’s going to keep giving us reasons to talk—whether it’s about her music, her style, or her unapologetic spirit.

3 Takeaways from Sabrina’s VMA Look

1. Risk = Reward: Carpenter proved that leaning into controversy (with style) can turn critics into fans.
2. Boas Aren’t Just for Divas: The lilac marabou added drama, but balance is key—next time, pair it with a simpler silhouette.
3. Valentino = Legacy: Wearing a heritage brand signals growth—Carpenter’s not just a pop star, she’s a fashion force.