At the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, Sabrina Carpenter paid a striking tribute to Madonna by donning a vintage gown once worn by the Queen of Pop herself. This wasn’t just any gown — it was a Bob Mackie-designed masterpiece, which Madonna originally wore to the 1991 Oscars while attending with Michael Jackson.
The satin dress, embellished with sequins, pearls, and crystals, featured a deep-V neckline and exuded old Hollywood glamour. Madonna had worn it as a homage to Marilyn Monroe during her performance of “Sooner or Later” from the movie Dick Tracy.
Sabrina Carpenter’s gown, which was customized for Madonna back in 1991, was sourced from LA’s Tab Vintage by her stylist, Jared Ellner. The dress holds a rich history, having been featured in a Vanity Fair cover shoot, Madonna’s controversial 1992 book Sex, and even worn by Fran Drescher in The Nanny.
The VMAs were buzzing with Madonna references, from Addison Rae and Anitta’s bridal looks inspired by Madonna’s Like a Virgin performance to Carpenter’s detailed homage. After stunning on the red carpet, Carpenter changed into a corseted bodysuit designed by Victoria’s Secret, staying true to the glamorous, shimmering vibe of her earlier look.
The night was a significant one for Sabrina Carpenter, who performed a medley of hits and later clinched the VMA for Song of the Year for Espresso. As an added nod to pop culture, she shared a kiss with a dancer in an alien costume, reminiscent of Madonna’s famous kiss with Britney Spears at the 2003 VMAs.
Sabrina Carpenter’s bold fashion statement and performance solidified her status as a rising star, making her a highlight of the 2024 VMAs.
