Sabrina Carpenter accepted three VMAs at the 2025 award ceremony, and she wore an embellished Bob Mackie cocktail dress for the occasion. While “Short n’ Sweet” won Album of the Year, she also received Best Pop Artist. Moreover, her latest album, “Manchild,” won the visual effects award. The archival “Swamp Dress” only added to the feat during Carpenter’s acceptance speech.

Carpenter’s vintage dress from Mackie’s Spring 1986 collection caught everyone’s eye. It featured hand-applied multicolor sequins in floral motifs across the bodice, which flowed into a fringe of navy bugle beading over black silk. The dress’ asymmetrical hem added to the theatrical effect, also allowing movement and catching light from every angle as Carpenter walked the stage.

Mackie’s official Instagram account posted the look. Tagging Carpenter, he wrote, “@sabrinacarpenter wears ‘The Swamp Dress’ from Bob Mackie’s 1986 Spring collection. The fully embellished cocktail dress is multicolor sequin and navy bugle beaded on black silk with an asymmetric fringe hem.” He also congratulated the singer, writing, “Congratulations on your @mtvvma win for Album of the Year!”

The artist paired the archival piece with platform black sandals and styled her hair with a retro edge. Overall, Carpenter let the Bob Mackie cocktail dress take center stage at the 2025 VMAs. Moreover, the singer honored pop legends Cher and Britney Spears with two additional Mackie creations, nodding to their iconic past performances. Carpenter’s looks were all about storytelling, and her fashion choices proved that the artist is ready to carve her own unforgettable path.