The 2026 Grammy Awards, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 1, witnessed a truly unforgettable red carpet moment courtesy of singer Chappell Roan. The 27-year-old artist, nominated for Best Pop Solo Performance and Record of the Year, captivated onlookers with an audacious and barely-there ensemble that pushed the boundaries of awards show fashion.
A Daring Fashion Statement
Roan arrived at the prestigious music ceremony wearing a sheer, burgundy mesh gown that was as provocative as it was elegant. The daring design hung delicately from her nipple piercings, creating a topless effect that left very little to the imagination. Initially, the star covered her chest area with a draped shawl, but as she posed for the assembled photographers, she confidently removed the fabric, fully revealing her breasts.
Completing the Bold Look
The risqué see-through dress was expertly paired with black thong underpants, a striking gold choker necklace, and strappy black high heels. The gown itself featured a dramatic, sweeping back and a long, flowing skirt that elegantly trailed on the floor behind her. Roan completed her bold aesthetic with heavy, smoky eye makeup and a vibrant ombre red lip, ensuring all eyes were firmly on her as she made her grand entrance.
Grammys 2026: A Star-Studded Affair
This year's Grammy Awards, hosted by the renowned comedian Trevor Noah, promises to be a spectacular celebration of musical excellence. The event is set to feature a slew of high-profile performances from global superstars including Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, and Bruno Mars. Major categories are fiercely contested, with artists like Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, and Sabrina Carpenter vying for Album of the Year, while emerging talents such as Addison Rae and Lola Young are nominated for Best New Artist.
Song of the Year nominations include contemporary hits like Doechii's Anxiety and Billie Eilish's Wildflower, highlighting the diverse and powerful music of the past year. The ceremony serves as the pinnacle of recognition within the global music industry.
Roan's Red Carpet Reflections
While speaking to Zuri Hall on the red carpet, Roan admitted to feeling slightly 'overstimulated' by the intense media scrutiny. "People are just filming you and you don’t know what you’re doing with it. This part is the hardest of the whole night for me," she confessed. However, the Pink Pony Club songstress clarified that she was ultimately 'feeling good' despite her nerves, adding, "I’m not performing this year, so this is a piece of cake."
A History of Photographer Confrontations
Roan's relationship with the paparazzi has been notably tense in recent years. At the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, she famously clashed with a photographer who yelled 'shut the f**k up', to which she retorted, "You shut the f**k up - not me, b**ch." This conflict resurfaced at the premiere of Olivia Rodrigo: Guts World Tour, where Roan confronted the same photographer, accusing him of being 'disrespectful' towards her at the Grammys and demanding an apology.
Preemptive Measures at Events
This history has led event organisers to take preemptive steps. Ahead of Roan's appearance at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony in November, a red-carpet attendant was filmed cautioning photographers. "OK, Chappell's coming. No one yell at her or she will leave," the woman instructed. "Be quiet, be nice, smiley." While some photographers laughed at the directive, it proved effective. When Roan subsequently stepped onto the carpet, she was met with an unusually calm and respectful press line, allowing for a smoother interaction.
Chappell Roan's Grammys 2026 appearance has undoubtedly cemented her status as a fearless fashion icon unafraid to make a statement, while also highlighting the complex dynamics between celebrities and the media on the global stage.
