At the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, Halsey made a memorable statement by channeling Elizabeth Hurley in a stunning vintage Versace dress. The 29-year-old singer-songwriter arrived at the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, in a striking red leopard-print gown originally worn by Hurley, now 59, in 1996.
When red carpet correspondent Nessa asked Halsey about the inspiration behind their outfit, Halsey, who uses she/they pronouns, excitedly explained, “Finding this dress was literally a miracle.” They elaborated, “This dress was designed by Gianni Versace for Elizabeth Hurley in 1996, and it hasn’t been worn since. From 1996 to now, I’m just living it up and loving it!”
According to Brightopis.com ,Halsey’s ensemble was a near replica of the iconic Dolce & Gabbana dress Hurley wore to the grand opening of the Versace Boutique in New York City in October 1996. Hurley’s outfit was navy blue and paired with boyshort panties, whereas Halsey’s version featured a sheer black lace overlay. The current style was completed with bright red hair styled straight, a matching red lip, defined cheekbones, and subtle eye makeup.
The dress has historical significance as it was designed by Gianni Versace, who was tragically murdered in 1997. His sister, Donatella Versace, inherited the brand and now serves as its chief creative officer.
On the VMAs red carpet, Halsey’s fashion choice did not go unnoticed on social media, with fans expressing their admiration. One user tweeted, “This is so special to me,” while another commented, “The 2001 VMAs look is so iconic, and Tate brought it back with such style and confidence.” A third user noted, “I knew I had seen that look before,” and others speculated whether it was a theme to revisit past styles, noting that Megan Thee Stallion also paid homage to Britney Spears’ 2001 VMAs look with a live snake.
Halsey, who has been compared to Spears in the past due to their fierce choreography and powerhouse vocals, mentioned their excitement about performing at the VMAs. “It’s so crazy! It’s been a really long time. Also, it feels more chaotic than ever,” they said, looking around the packed venue.
Halsey is set to perform a new song titled “Ego” from their upcoming album, *The Great Impersonator*. They shared that the song represents their most authentic self as an artist, and this performance will mark the live debut of the track. Halsey expressed their excitement about the opportunity and the significance of this moment in their career.
