Veils, Swords, and Crosses: The 2024 VMAs Doubled as a Renaissance Faire

Haven’t you heard? It’s goth girl fall. After a macabre turn at the Venice Film Festival, the 2024 MTV VMAs followed suit—albeit with a distinctly medieval bent—with crosses, chainmail, and capes lingering among the veils and chunky silver jewelry. “Yup, the bats have once again left the belfry; welcome to the season of the witch,” British Vogue’s Tish Weinstock wrote of the goth revival at Venice last month. But while the Italian film festival generally encourages an Old Hollywood dress code, the VMAs have more of an anything goes approach.

Veils and hoods were a dime a dozen at the awards show. Camila Cabello covered her newly dark hair with a black lace veil, as did Jazzelle Zanaughtti. Meanwhile, Lisa’s nude Mugler dress draped over her head like a cloak. And Anitta, in her white Dolce Gabbana dress, walked the line between bride and nun.

it should come as no surprise that Chappell Roan was most committed to the look. The “Good Luck Babe” singer hit the red carpet (and her own carpet, which she brought along for photos) in a sheer Y/Project dress with a sage green cloak, chainmail purse, cross necklace, and—most eye-catching of all—a sword. She brought that energy to her performance in a leather suit of armor by Zana Bayne, toting a flaming crossbow, and later, onstage accepting the award for Best New Artist in chainmail Rabanne.

Below, enjoy the 2024 VMAs looks that guests can definitely incorporate into their next outing to the Renaissance Faire.