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VMA’s Sun-Kissed Stars: A Shady Affair
Sunglasses that stole the spotlight at the 40th VMAs, turning eyewear into show-stopping accessories
The MTV Video Music Awards, or VMAs, have consistently served as a dazzling intersection of groundbreaking music and daring fashion. With the 40th annual VMAs hosted by the dynamic Nicki Minaj, the event unfolded in grand style at the Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey. It was a night filled with extravagant red carpet looks, breathtaking performances, and a slew of well-deserved winners, including music luminaries such as Diddy, Shakira, and Taylor Swift, who seemed to be on a winning spree, collecting awards left and right.
However, amidst all the glitz and glamour, there was one notable absence at this year's VMAs: sunglasses. Yes, you read that correctly. While we were enthralled by the sartorial splendour on display, it was evident that eyewear had taken a backseat. But don't worry, we've meticulously scoured the event, both inside the Prudential Centre and on the red carpet, to present you with a curated selection of the most stylish and attention-grabbing sunglasses that made their presence felt at the 40th VMAs. Join us as we delve into the world of iconic eyewear, bridging the gap between music and fashion at this unforgettable awards show.
Nicki Minaj: The Emcee and Style Icon
Nicki Minaj, the night's emcee, took centre stage alongside Lil Wayne, Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, Doug E. Fresh, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, and LL Cool J for a performance that celebrated hip-hop's 50th anniversary and closed out the awards show just before Taylor Swift clinched the video of the year award. Her performance was a medley of hits, and her style was nothing short of spectacular.
Nicki Minaj donned a red bodysuit, black boots, and a pair of striking sunglasses as she performed her own hits "Itty Bitty Piggy" and "Red Ruby Da Sleeze." Her choice of eyewear added an extra layer of fierceness to her stage presence, proving once again that she's not just a musical force but also a style icon to be reckoned with.
Diddy's Global Icon Look
Diddy, who received the prestigious Global Icon Award and delivered a legendary performance alongside his children, undoubtedly had a triumphant night. The rap mogul graced both the iconic red carpet and his electrifying performance with a pair of stylish frames.
Diddy sported sleek black cat-eye Bottega Veneta BV1121S 001 sunglasses after his iconic performance. These shades not only shielded his eyes but also elevated his already impressive fashion game. Diddy's choice of eyewear proved that sunglasses can be both functional and a fashion statement.
Lil Wayne's Hip-Hop 50 Medley
Lil Wayne, another iconic figure from the world of hip-hop, made not one but two memorable appearances during the evening. He took the helm of the Hip-Hop 50 Medley alongside YMCMB comrade Nicki Minaj and the legendary LL Cool J, lighting up the stage with both his performance and his avant-garde Balenciaga BB0100S 002 LED frame sunglasses.
Lil Wayne's eyewear choice featured LED frames that appeared to be set to the red colour setting, matching his surroundings and creating a visually stunning effect. These futuristic shades perfectly complemented his stage presence, showcasing the marriage of music and fashion in a truly innovative way.
Peso Pluma: The Emerging Star in Saint Laurent
Emerging Mexican musician and singer Peso Pluma not only exuded sleek and stylish elegance on the red carpet but also left the audience spellbound with a historic performance. For the red carpet affair, Pluma effortlessly donned new-season Saint Laurent sunglasses.
These sunglasses added a touch of sophistication and modernity to Peso Pluma's ensemble, showcasing the artist's evolving style and commitment to making a statement. In the world of eyewear, Saint Laurent proved to be the perfect choice for this rising star.
Jared Leto's Dystopian Chic
Jared Leto made a memorable appearance at the Prudential Center, channelling a look that was eerily reminiscent of a certain Uncut Gems muse. The actor and singer, known for his band Thirty Seconds to Mars, walked the walk in an all-black outfit that seemed straight out of the annals of infamous VMAs red-carpet fashion or the set of a dystopian sci-fi thriller.
Leto's eyewear choice included black shield sunglasses, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to his ensemble. These sunglasses, combined with his edgy outfit and bold accessories, solidified his reputation as a fashion-forward trendsetter.
While sunglasses may have taken a backseat at the 40th VMAs, the select few who did showcase their eyewear choices did so in spectacular fashion. From Nicki Minaj's fierce stage presence to Diddy's iconic Global Icon look, Lil Wayne's futuristic LED frames, Peso Pluma's sleek elegance, and Jared Leto's dystopian chic, these sunglasses not only protected their wearers' eyes but also made a bold fashion statement. The 40th VMAs may be remembered for many things, but in the world of eyewear, these iconic moments shine as brightly as the stars themselves..
