Red Carpet Fashion Highlights: The Most Unforgettable AMAs 2016 Dresses
A detailed look at the boldest and most glamorous red carpet dresses and unforgettable style statements from the 2016 American Music Awards.
The American Music Awards 2016 brought together the biggest stars in the music industry, each ready to make a memorable statement on the red carpet. The event was a dazzling showcase of daring silhouettes, glamorous fabrics, and trendsetting ensembles. From sophisticated gowns to cutting-edge two-piece sets and inventive tailoring, the AMAs red carpet turned into an unforgettable parade of bold style. Below, explore a comprehensive recap of the standout looks, style details, emerging fashion themes, and a glimpse at the fashion risks that paid off.
The AMAs 2016 Red Carpet: Setting the Scene
The 2016 American Music Awards red carpet served as a stage for celebrity fashion, where artists, actors, and influencers alike pushed the boundaries of their personal style. Metallics, plunging necklines, thigh-high slits, intricate embellishments, and sheer detailing emerged as some of the dominant trends of the night. Both established icons and rising stars used the opportunity to showcase custom creations from the world’s top designers.
Major Trends That Ruled the 2016 AMAs
- Sheer and Cut-Out Details: Stars amped up the drama in gowns featuring illusion fabrics and strategic cut-outs.
- High Slits & Plunging Necklines: Leg-baring and décolletage-revealing designs led to some of the most photographed moments of the night.
- Metallics & Sequins: Silver, gold, and holographic shine drew all eyes to the carpet, amplifying the show’s celebratory atmosphere.
- Suits and Two-Piece Sets: Strong tailoring and daring separates modernized the red carpet for both women and men.
- Pops of Color: Vibrant reds, deep emeralds, and crisp whites ensured no shortage of boldness among the sea of classics.
Notable Red Carpet Looks & Best-Dressed Celebrities
Here’s a deeper look at some of the night’s most buzzed-about ensembles and the celebrities who wore them:
Lady Gaga – White Elegance
Lady Gaga defied expectations in a crisp white pantsuit and wide-brim hat by Brandon Maxwell. Pairing classic tailoring with minimal styling, Gaga delivered an effortlessly impactful look, channeling a modern, powerful sensibility that diverged from her usual avant-garde reputation. The ensemble highlighted the ongoing trend of suits for women on the red carpet—a sophisticated, gender-fluid choice brimming with confidence.
Chrissy Teigen – The Jaw-Dropping Slit
Model and television personality Chrissy Teigen stunned in a black double-slit Anthony Vaccarello gown featuring bold cut-outs at the hip and neck. The dress’s extremely high slits became a major talking point, balancing drama and elegance, which she paired with thigh-high sandals and metallic accessories. Teigen’s look exemplified the red carpet’s fearless and playful energy.
Gigi Hadid – Red Ruffled Romance
As the co-host of the evening, Gigi Hadid wore several outfits, but her standout red carpet arrival featured a Roberto Cavalli off-shoulder lace gown in a bold crimson. The dress’s romantic ruffles, delicate sheerness, and structured shape epitomized both daring glamour and youthful elegance. The look was completed with sculptural waves and subtle jewelry, letting the dress remain the focus.
Selena Gomez – Classic Ball Gown Beauty
Selena Gomez won hearts (and the award for Favorite Female Pop/Rock Artist) in a simple yet regal red Prada ball gown. The understated neckline and full skirt emphasized sophistication, contrasting beautifully against more risqué ensembles of the evening. Her refreshed, minimal approach was widely praised as a masterclass in timeless glamour.
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Hailee Steinfeld – Emerald Shine
Singer and actress Hailee Steinfeld dazzled in a sparkling emerald green Elie Saab romper with matching cape. The all-sequin look was youthful, modern, and eye-catching, marrying playfulness and high-impact luxury. Her bold metallic shadow and tousled hair echoed the dress’s high-energy vibe.
Ariana Grande – Black & White Chic
Ariana Grande celebrated her signature style with a high-neck, long-sleeve lace crop top and high-waisted white wide-leg pants by Alexander McQueen. The black-and-white palette—accented with her iconic high ponytail—was a refreshing break from conventional gowns, putting a contemporary spin on red carpet dressing.
Heidi Klum – Metallic Sophistication
Supermodel Heidi Klum impressed in a plunging, metallic-woven jumpsuit with sleek tailoring by Wolk Morais. The look was both futuristic and retro, paying homage to 1970s disco with extra edge. Statement earrings and slicked-back hair rounded out the disco diva-inspired vibe.
Teyana Taylor – Bold Bodycon Gold
Teyana Taylor opted for a striking, gold bodycon dress, which hugged every curve and shimmered under the lights. Choosing minimal accessories allowed her radiant ensemble and sculpted silhouette to take center stage, serving up confidence and red carpet bravado.
Other Scene-Stealing Appearances
- Julianne Hough: Danced her way in with a feather-embellished, midriff-baring look in shimmering blue, embodying ice-queen chic.
- Ciara: Displayed her baby bump in a sheer, form-fitting black gown with intricate embellishments, capturing both elegance and strength.
- Nina Dobrev: Rocked a matching silver miniskirt and blazer set adorned with geometric beads for a modern art approach.
- Keke Palmer: Brought early 2000s vibes with a sparkling gold crop-top and miniskirt, completed with a fur stole.
- Idina Menzel: Wowed in a romantic, black column gown with minimal details, highlighting classic sophistication.
- Kat Graham: Showcased a dramatic, theatrical black-and-white strapless gown with tiered ruffles, channeling avant-garde glamour.
- Laura Marano: Stunned in a fiery red beaded dress with statement shoulder details, exuding high-energy style.
- Milla Jovovich: Dazzled in a deep navy jumpsuit with sheer panels and bold accessories, offering a modern take on old Hollywood.
- Taraji P. Henson: Chose a silver-caped slip dress with a plunging neckline, combining 90s minimalism with star power.
- Jenny McCarthy: Delivered iconic black elegance in a fitted velvet gown with sheer sleeves and classic styling.
- Niall Horan: The One Direction alum impressed in a navy-checked suit, crisp button-up, and brogues, keeping menswear cool and refined.
The Fashion Themes & Trends: What the AMAs 2016 Taught Us
- Gender-Neutral Tailoring: More women brought strong suit dressing to the carpet, illustrating flexibility and empowerment.
- Embellishments & Texture: From beads to feathers, intricate detailing added dimension and luxury to classic silhouettes.
- High Drama vs. Understated Class: Some stars went all out with thigh-high slits, cut-outs, or volume, while others drew attention with simplicity and restraint.
- Return of Retro Vibes: Disco, vintage Hollywood, and early 2000s influences could be spotted in both fabric choices and accessories.
Style Breakdown: Red Carpet Looks in Detail
| Celebrity | Designer/Label | Look Description | Notable Elements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lady Gaga | Brandon Maxwell | White suit and hat | Gender-fluid tailoring, minimalism |
| Chrissy Teigen | Anthony Vaccarello | Black with extreme slits | High drama, daring cut-outs |
| Gigi Hadid | Roberto Cavalli | Red lace off-shoulder gown | Ruffles, romantic sheerness |
| Selena Gomez | Prada | Red classic ball gown | Minimalism, full skirt |
| Hailee Steinfeld | Elie Saab | Emerald sequin romper-cape | All-sequin, playful luxury |
| Ariana Grande | Alexander McQueen | Lace crop top & wide-leg pants | Black & white palette, modern |
| Heidi Klum | Wolk Morais | Plunging metallic jumpsuit | Retro-futuristic, disco glamour |
| Teyana Taylor | – | Gold bodycon dress | Figure-hugging, metallic shine |
The Impact of AMAs Red Carpet Fashion
The 2016 AMAs red carpet not only spotlighted stunning looks but also underlined fashion’s role in self-expression and confidence. Moments like Lady Gaga’s tailored suit and Chrissy Teigen’s double-slit gown rapidly circulated online, influencing street style and inspiring future award show trends. Designers capitalized on the buzz, while stylists celebrated their collaborations with celebrity clients through behind-the-scenes social media content.
How the 2016 AMAs Changed the Red Carpet
- Greater Individuality: Stars showed less fear of taking risks and more willingness to align red carpet choices with personal brand and artistry.
- Conversation Starters: After the show, social media was abuzz with debates over the night’s most “controversial” looks, indicating fashion’s power to provoke discussion.
- Designer-Celebrity Collaboration: Unique, custom garments became more prominent, replacing mass-appeal choices with one-of-a-kind statements.
Behind the Scenes: The Process of Red Carpet Dressing
Red carpet preparations are meticulous, involving stylists, designers, makeup artists, and hair teams. Fittings can start weeks in advance, with test runs, alternations, and last-minute tweaks. Celebrities increasingly share these journeys on Instagram and Snapchat, offering fans a peek into glam squads’ creative processes.
Frequently Asked Questions About AMAs Red Carpet Fashion
Q: Who was best dressed at the AMAs 2016?
A: While personal favorites varied, Lady Gaga’s tailored white suit, Selena Gomez’s classic Prada gown, and Chrissy Teigen’s daring Anthony Vaccarello dress were among the top-praised looks of the night for their originality and boldness.
Q: What were the dominant trends on the 2016 AMAs red carpet?
A: Key trends included tailored suits for women, striking slits and cut-outs, metallics and sequins, sheer overlays, and coordinated two-piece outfits.
Q: Did any menswear stand out at the AMAs?
A: Yes, Niall Horan gained attention for his sharp checked suit, while other male attendees kept it classic with slim tailoring and statement shoes.
Q: How do celebrities choose their red carpet outfits?
A: Outfits are typically selected through collaboration between the celebrity, their stylist, and fashion designers or brands, often culminating in custom pieces designed weeks in advance.
Q: Which designers were most featured?
A: High-profile designers such as Brandon Maxwell, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Elie Saab, Alexander McQueen, and Wolk Morais had major moments through the night’s leading looks.
Red Carpet Influence: Lasting Style Inspiration from the AMAs
- For Everyday Style: Statement tailoring, metallic accessories, and bold lipstick—adapted from the AMAs—quickly filtered into mainstream fashion.
- On Social Media: Red carpet photos trended for days, sparking outfit recreations, YouTube tutorials, and in-depth style analyses across platforms.
- For Future Awards: The fearless mood and diversity of styles set a new standard, encouraging upcoming events to continue celebrating fashion freedom.
From unforgettable gowns to power suits and dazzling embellishments, the AMAs 2016 red carpet delivered a masterclass in high octane glamour, individuality, and style innovation—leaving a lasting mark on the fashion world and inspiring red carpets for years to come.
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