Chappell Roan once again dominated conversation at the 2026 Grammy Awards, but not solely for her music. The Best New Artist winner sparked widespread debate after stepping onto the red carpet in a daring couture look that quickly divided fans, critics, and fashion commentators.
The Grammy Awards, held Sunday night in Los Angeles, are known as the biggest evening in the music industry. This year’s ceremony blended high-profile performances, political statements, and headline-making fashion—both onstage and outside the venue.
Several artists, including Bad Bunny, Olivia Dean, Shaboozey, and Gloria Estefan, addressed immigration enforcement policies linked to the Trump administration during their acceptance speeches. At the same time, red carpet fashion was generating its own wave of discussion online.
A Mugler Gown That Set Social Media Ablaze
Roan arrived wearing a sheer maroon gown by Mugler, held together with metallic ring detailing across the chest. The ensemble was inspired by Manfred Thierry Mugler’s iconic 1998 “Jeu de Paume” collection, reimagined for Spring/Summer 2026 by designer Miguel Castro Freitas.
Fashion insiders praised the archival reference and bold craftsmanship. However, many viewers watching at home reacted negatively, calling the look excessive for a mainstream awards show and criticizing what they see as an overreliance on shock value in celebrity fashion.
Comments poured in across social media platforms, with some viewers arguing that music awards should focus on artistry rather than provocative visuals.
A Growing Red Carpet Trend
Roan’s outfit was not an isolated moment. Along with similar looks worn by Heidi Klum earlier that evening, it was viewed as part of a broader movement toward transparent and body-forward fashion that has been increasingly common since 2025.
Celebrities such as Julia Fox, Florence Pugh, Bianca Censori, Teyana Taylor, Kristen Stewart, and Dakota Johnson have all embraced sheer or unconventional styles. While supporters describe the trend as empowering and expressive, critics argue it prioritizes attention over substance.
Supporters Applaud Her Confidence
Despite the backlash, many fans rushed to defend Roan, praising her confidence and commitment to artistic expression. Supporters described the outfit as memorable, intentional, and consistent with her established image as a performer who pushes creative boundaries.
Roan is no stranger to theatrical fashion. At the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, she paid homage to Cyndi Lauper with a visually coded tribute that resonated with longtime fans.
Her Grammys look was styled by Los Angeles-based stylist Genesis Webb and drew inspiration from Lauper’s True Colors era. The outfit featured dramatic silhouettes, vintage jewelry, and a custom headpiece designed to evoke classic pop rebellion.
Music Career Continues to Soar
While opinions on her fashion remain divided, Roan’s success in the music industry is undeniable. She is currently nominated for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance for her song “The Subway” and is scheduled to appear as a presenter during the ceremony.
In the previous awards season, Roan earned Best New Artist for The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess and collected five additional nominations, including multiple nods for her breakout hit “Good Luck, Babe!”
Whether praised as fearless fashion or criticized as unnecessary provocation, Chappell Roan’s Grammy appearance has once again proven her ability to command attention. One thing is clear: the conversation surrounding her red carpet look is far from over.
