Red Carpet Dark Lenses
Music met fashion as bold sunglasses redefined stardom’s spotlight
The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) aren’t just about trophies; they’re about culture, fashion, and unforgettable moments.
The 42nd edition lit up UBS Arena, with LL Cool J hosting and stars like Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter dominating the winners’ list.
Legends Mariah Carey, Ricky Martin, and Busta Rhymes were honoured, while performances by Doja Cat, Post Malone, and a fiery Ozzy Osbourne tribute electrified the night.
Beyond the music, it was fashion that commanded attention, especially sunglasses.
From futuristic visors to retro ovals, eyewear became the ultimate red carpet statement, redefining stardom’s spotlight. Let’s take a closer look at the shades that defined the 2025 VMAs.
The Diva in Dolce & Gabbana
When Mariah Carey steps onto a stage or red carpet, it becomes her stage. Fresh off her Video Vanguard Award honour, the legend dazzled in a sequined gown that caught every flashbulb.
But her choice of eyewear added a new layer to her iconic diva status: the Dolce & Gabbana DG4463 501/8G butterfly sunglasses.
With oversized frames and smoky gradient lenses, they were as dramatic as her five-octave range. These shades weren’t hiding her eyes; they were extending her aura, making her presence larger than life. Mariah has always understood glamour and these sunglasses proved that true icons never just follow trends; they define them.
DJ Snake in Prada Precision
The French DJ and producer brought understated heat in Prada PR 65ZS ZVN20I sunglasses.
Thin, geometric metal rims and tinted lenses framed his face with architectural precision. They weren’t loud, but they didn’t need to be.
Prada has a way of speaking in whispers that echo louder than screams. Snake’s shades were minimal, yes…but also perfectly maximalist in their cool factor.
Paris Hilton’s Crystal Moment
Paris Hilton knows how to play the VMAs game: sparkle, shock, repeat. This year, she transformed into what fans dubbed a “crystal swan,” shimmering in head-to-toe Swarovski. Her eyewear was just as dazzling: the Swarovski SK7020 400187 shield sunglasses. They gleamed with icy brilliance, wrapping across her face like
armour made of light.
Both futuristic and fairy-tale, the oversized shield style amplified her Swarovski couture.
It wasn’t just an accessory; it was Paris proving, once again, that diamonds may be forever, but crystals can steal
the show.
Jon Jones, The Knockout
It wasn’t a fight night, but UFC champion Jon “Bones” Jones, nicknamed Jonny Meat on the carpet, knocked out the VMAs red carpet with his bold eyewear choice. He wore Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza LW40064U 01Y frames with striking red lenses.
The black wraparound silhouette screamed dominance, while the crimson tint added a dangerous edge.
It was athleticism meeting high fashion. Jones didn’t just walk the carpet—he owned it, as if stepping into the ring one more time.
Busta Rhymes Keeps It Classic
Fresh off receiving the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, Busta Rhymes reminded everyone that timeless style never fades. His weapon of choice? The Tom Ford Bronson TF1044 01E
These sunglasses, with their square shape and glossy black finish, are pure Hollywood power.
They’ve been spotted on stars before, but on Busta, they took on new life, classic yet commanding. Much like his music, these frames have a presence that doesn’t age.
Justin Quiles Goes Silver
Puerto Rican singer Justin Quiles added sparkle of his own, debuting Gucci GG1942S oval sunglasses in silver from the Pre-Fall 2025 collection.
The metallic frames and mirrored lenses felt futuristic, almost sci-fi, yet rooted in Gucci’s retro DNA. They reflected every flash, every spotlight, every fan’s phone screen.
Quiles wasn’t just wearing shades; he was turning himself into a mirror of the VMAs' energy.
Gunna’s Bottega Repeat
If there’s one thing Gunna knows, it’s consistency. Just weeks after making headlines at the US Open, he returned to his favourite Bottega Veneta Sardine BV1386S 003 frames.
Chunky yet sophisticated, the Sardine’s sculptural temples gave his relaxed outfit a luxury edge.
Gunna has a knack for turning repetition into signature and these sunglasses may just become his calling card.
Nevrmind in the Future
Rising musician Nevrmind stepped straight into tomorrow with Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer RW4008 601/71 smart glasses.
These weren’t just shades…they were technology. With built-in cameras and speakers, they allowed real-time sharing without losing an ounce of style.
The classic Wayfarer silhouette got a 2025 upgrade, blurring the line between accessory and gadget. Nevrmind’s look whispered: the future isn’t coming—it’s already here.
