Since Nicki Minaj made her debut at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2010, one thing is for sure: There’s simply nobody doing it quite like her. Seldom one for subtlety, the rap star’s style is anything but understated. She’s all about loud colors, even louder prints, and eye-catching embellishments. At the 2022 VMAs, she donned two different hot pink ensembles: a floor-dusting gown, and also a miniskirt.
Minaj, who served as co-host this year and performed a medley of hits, has been serving the Barbiecore aesthetic for years — see her 2017 VMAs ’fit — way before Valentino's fall ’22 collection and stills from Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie movie leaked. The 39-year-old has consistently rocked the color, and has even referred to herself by the doll’s name.
Even when she goes for a more muted palette, like black or navy, you can invariably count on her look to be equipped with strategic cut-outs and/or covered in sequins or glitter.
Below, reminisce on Minaj's best VMAs outfits through the years, from red-carpet rhinestones to on-stage umpiring.
Full-On Barbie, 2022
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When Minaj hit the stage to receive Best Hip-Hop Artist at the 2022 awards, she went full-on Barbie in a dramatic hot pink satin Dolce & Gabbana gown, featuring an embellished bodice, and accessorized with matching hair, nails, shoes, and plenty of bling, naturally.
Sweet In Watermelon Pink, 2022
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The same evening, she dazzled in another pink look during her Vanguard Award acceptance speech. She paired a holographic diamond cut-out top with a flouncy pink ombre miniskirt, adorned with pearls. She completed the ensemble with a baby pink latex bow and pink-laced black combat boots.
A Sheer Swimsuit Gown, 2018
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She chose a neutral-toned number with a sheer tulle skirt for the 2018 VMAs. The Off-White creation, which she styled with clear PVC sandals, looked like something of a hybrid swimsuit gown. It’s the knee-length pigtails for me, though.
Bubblegum Latex, 2017
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Who could possibly forget her bubblegum pink latex jumpsuit back in 2017? An assortment of shiny jewelry and tricolor platform booties featuring a cut-out vamp design pulled the look together.
An Uber-Chic Umpire, 2017
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Later that night, the rapper performed in a glossy referee-inspired ’fit, designed with a bold plunging front, a pleated micro miniskirt, and thigh-high boots. Love the whistle as an added touch, personally.
Regal In Royal Blue, 2016
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In 2016, she opted for a semi-sheer navy blue gown with sultry cut-out detailing. Please note her clutching the backdrop as she poses. She, and this dress, are everything.
Going For Gold, 2015
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Minaj’s golden gown at the 2015 awards was particularly glamorous. The metallic sequin-covered dress was, again, quite sheer, with a plunging neckline and intricate embroidery.
All Things Anaconda, 2014
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During her Anaconda era (courtesy of her 2014 album, The Pinkprint), Minaj hit the MTV red carpet in a silver-and-gold, animal-print sequinned dress, paired with off-white platform pumps.
A New Take On The LBD, 2014
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After the show, Minaj posed for photos in this black velvet number, which she styled with glittery black and white peep-toe stiletto booties. It's giving “Feeling Myself.”
A Rhinestoned Catsuit, 2012
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At the 2012 VMAs, Minaj rocked a black lace catsuit featuring a red rhinestone design, which mimicked the appearance of a corset and ran the length of her legs. She finished the look with fishnets, embellished platforms, a highlighter-yellow wig, and a BDSM-inspired top hat.
Kaleidoscopic Can-Do, 2011
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For the 2011 awards, she arrived in this Harajuku-inspired look, complete with a pre-pan face mask and ice cream cone necklace. One-of-a-kind vibes, ya know?
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