The American Music Awards have long been a stage for iconic red carpet moments, and the 2026 edition was no exception. Known for its celebration of music and celebrity culture, the AMAs has a history of pushing fashion boundaries. This year’s event, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, saw a parade of stars who took the nearly nude look to new extremes. While some outfits were tasteful and elegant, others left little to the imagination. Below, we dissect the most heinous—and memorable—nearly nude looks from the night.
Paula Abdul
The "Straight Up" singer, a three-time AMA winner, turned heads in an outfit that barely kept her covered. The ensemble featured strategic cutouts and sheer panels, leaving little to the imagination. Abdul, known for her dance moves and 80s hits, has always been a fashion risk-taker. At 64, she continues to defy age norms with bold choices. Her look at the 52nd AMAs was a testament to her enduring star power and willingness to experiment with risqué styles.
Lisa Rinna
The reality TV veteran brought a business-meets-party vibe, leaving her bra behind but sporting a polka-dot JFK tie. Rinna, best known for her role on "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," has a reputation for daring fashion. Her outfit combined a sheer top with the tie, creating a confusing yet eye-catching ensemble. Critics were divided, but Rinna’s confidence was undeniable. The tie, a nod to old-school political style, added an unexpected twist.
Amaya Espinal
Reality TV winner Amaya Espinal channeled an Egyptian mummy with a "Love Island" twist. Her dress was wrapped tightly around her body in layers of white fabric, resembling bandages. The look was both impractical and uncomfortable, as Espinal struggled to move easily. This outfit highlighted the trend of body-con silhouettes with a historical flair, though it was more bizarre than beautiful.
Eva Gutowski
YouTuber and DJ Eva Gutowski went for a "dress-in-a-shredder" vibe. Her outfit appeared to be torn apart, with strips of fabric hanging loosely. This deconstructed look was a nod to the grunge aesthetic, but many viewers found it confusing. Gutowski, who rose to fame on YouTube, has been exploring fashion boundaries as she transitions into music. The shredded dress was certainly a conversation starter.
Steve and Josie Stevens
Billy Idol’s longtime guitarist Steve Stevens and his wife Josie brought 80s rock chic to the red carpet. Steve, eternally frozen in 1985 style, wore a leather jacket and studded accessories, while Josie embraced Sunset Strip rocker vibes with a metallic mini-dress and heavy makeup. The couple has been married for nearly 20 years and their fashion sense remains timelessly retro. This look celebrated the classic rock glamour of the 80s.
Tinashe
Singer Tinashe modeled what could be called Vegas bridal couture—a white, barely-there dress with dramatic train. The outfit looked like it was meant for a quick wedding chapel ceremony that would be annulled 48 hours later. Tinashe, known for her R&B hits and choreography, has a history of bold fashion. Her dress featured sheer panels and intricate lace, but left little to the imagination. It was a fitting choice for Sin City.
Karol G
Colombian singer-songwriter Karol G showed off major midriff in a two-piece set that consisted of a tiny crop top and high-waisted skirt with side cutouts. The look was sporty yet sexy, reflecting her reggaeton roots. Karol G has become a fashion icon in Latin music, often blending streetwear with glamour. Her AMAs outfit was no exception, emphasizing her toned abs and confident demeanor.
GloRilla
Rapper GloRilla wore a banana-yellow dress that was barely covering anything. The garment, which looked like it was held together by strategic straps, showed as much skin as possible without being NSFW. GloRilla, who emerged from the Memphis rap scene, is known for her unapologetically bold style. This dress was a literal representation of her hit song "Tomorrow"—catching everyone’s eye. Critics called it one of the most daring looks of the night.
Megan Stalter and Paul W. Downs
Comedy duo Megan Stalter and Paul W. Downs, stars of "Hacks," brought humor to the red carpet. Stalter wore a Cher-inspired wig while both had belt buckles featuring each other’s faces. Their outfits were eccentric and playful, a departure from the typically glamorous red carpet. This look celebrated their friendship and the upcoming series finale. The pair’s fashion sense is always unpredictable, and this year they outdid themselves.
These nearly nude looks reflect a broader trend in celebrity fashion: the pursuit of shock value and viral attention. As social media dominance increases, stars are more willing to take fashion risks to generate buzz. The AMAs red carpet has become a platform for such experimentation, with designers and stylists pushing boundaries. While some outfits are criticized as heinous, they nevertheless become memorable moments that define the event. The 2026 AMAs will be remembered for its bold, barely-there fashion, from the most daring to the most ridiculous. Whether celebrating personal expression or seeking headlines, these celebrities have made their mark on music history.
Source: Yahoo Entertainment News