Taraji P. Henson Raised the Bar for Awards Show Fashion at the AMAs

Between a Versace-clad Dua Lipa, Jennifer Lopez in belly-baring Balmain, and Maluma rocking Thom Browne, there was plenty of high fashion eye-candy at last night’s American Music Awards. Celebrities brought their sartorial A-game, but no one could compete with the evening’s host, Taraji P. Henson. The actress took to the stage in 12 different looks, changing her style with lightning speed thanks to hairstylist, Tym Wallace and makeup artist, Ashunta Sheriff who upped the glamour with cosmetics from Armani Beauty. Henson’s wardrobe ran the gamut from Area gowns with trippy black and white prints to vintage bustiers from legendary designer Patrick Kelly. 

The variety that she and stylist Jason Bolden showcased throughout the event was thrilling to watch, and each outfit featured bold combinations. Who knew that sequined Armani would pair perfectly with piles of Tiffany Co. jewels and a white turban? Or that Kerby Jean Raymond’s Pyer Moss mini-dress could register as Western just by adding on a cowboy hat and a crystal-studded headscarf? Henson and Bolden kept the virtual audience at the Microsoft Theater on their toes as she switched from one designer statement piece to the next.

Onscreen, Henson’s versatility is unquestioned—name one other actress who could move seamlessly from playing a NASA mathematician to kicking butt as a hitwoman only to segue into hosting a music event—but at the AMA’s the many sides of her fashion persona were on display. A chameleon who takes joy in keeping things interesting, she got to be regal in Carolina Herrera’s puff-sleeved Resort 2021 gown, vampy in a barely-there bejeweled Georges Hobeika little black dress, and adorable in a Perry Meek glitter catsuit. A charming MC who kept the night’s energy going as the awards were handed out, she was among the evening’s highlights.

Of course, Henson is currently enjoying a banner year. The actress, who turned 50 back in September, is living her best life thanks to her spirited fashions, effervescent personality, and an incredible cameo in Megan Thee Stallion’s newly released ‘Body’ music video. If you ever needed an example of what it means to be fashionable and fabulous, watch Henson dancing alongside Thee Stallion and disregarding all antiquated ideas about dressing over 40. As evidenced by her electric AMAs wardrobe, Henson remains bold, sexy, and always willing to flaunt it.