All About Austyn Edition
The VMAs were last night and what a night it turned out to be! Big wins, jaw-dropping performances, and memorable fashion moments sparked conversation on social media, keeping me captivated by the excitement. From glittering gowns to bold streetwear, the fashion choices showcased creativity and individuality. I wished I was front row, soaking in the atmosphere and cheering on my favorite stars as they took home those iconic moonman trophies. The night felt electric, filled with surprises and unforgettable moments! So lets break it down!!
Big Winners of the Night 🏆


💋 Lady Gaga proved she’s still the queen of reinvention, taking home four awards including Artist of the Year. She literally ran in from her Madison Square Garden show, snatched her trophy, and disappeared again. Iconic.
🍒 Ariana Grande won Video of the Year for “Brighter Days Ahead,” radiating joy as she celebrated. The atmosphere was electric, with fans cheering her dedication. Dressed in an eye-catching outfit, Ariana expressed gratitude to her team, making it a memorable night for hope and positivity.
🍓 Sabrina Carpenter continues her superstar glow-up, winning Album of the Year for her project, Short n’ Sweet, which showcases her versatility and growth as an artist. Her captivating performances and songwriting have resonated with fans, solidifying her status in the music industry. Being awarded Best Pop Artist emphasizes her ability to connect with listeners, proving she is a formidable force in contemporary pop music.
♥️ Rosé (BLACKPINK) and Bruno Mars collaborate on the highly anticipated Song of the Year, “APT.” This track combines Rosé’s distinctive vocals with Bruno’s charisma, featuring a catchy melody and powerful lyrics that resonate with a global audience. Fans are captivated by the blend of K-pop and pop elements, showcasing the impact of international collaborations in music.
👠 Mariah Carey finally received her Video Vanguard Award, a long-overdue recognition for her fans. This accolade celebrates her contributions to music and iconic career moments. The award ceremony featured nostalgic clips from her performances, showcasing her artistry’s evolution and impact, affirming her status as a cultural icon.
Performances Everyone’s Talking About 🎶


Doja Cat
Opened the night with an ‘80s-inspired vibe featuring Kenny G on sax, creating a nostalgic atmosphere filled with smooth sounds, neon lights, and laughter. The combination of music set a fun tone for an unforgettable evening of dancing and reminiscing among friends.
Mariah Carey
Reminded us why she’s a legend with a captivating medley of her hits, showcasing her extraordinary talent. As the audience sang along, the air was filled with joy and connection, reliving cherished memories. She tantalizingly left everyone eager for a sneak peek of new music, promising fresh innovation while honoring her legacy. Goosebumps!
Lady Gaga
Beamed in a pre-taped performance from her Mayhem Ball Tour — visually gorgeous, with dazzling choreography and stunning visuals that captivated the audience, though everyone wished she had been there live to feel the raw energy and excitement that comes only from a real-time performance.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Tribute
Aerosmith and Yungblud performed together, creating a mix of nostalgia and modern punk energy on stage. While Aerosmith’s classic rock appealed to some, Yungblud’s chaotic charm captivated the younger crowd, leading to a divided audience. This contrast created an intriguing atmosphere, highlighting the tension between their distinct musical styles.
And my personal fave?
Tate McRae’s performance was spectacular. She absolutely killed it — the choreography was well-executed, the vocals were powerful, and the energy was electrifying. Her interaction with the crowd kept everyone engaged, and I was captivated. Each movement told a story, drawing us deeper into her world. It was an unforgettable experience that left me wanting more.
Fashion Moments 💃✨


This is the VMAs, so naturally the red carpet was full of sparkle, drama, and risk-taking. Sequins, sheer dresses, bold cutouts — no one played it safe. Celebrities showcased unique styles, making daring fashion statements that challenged norms. Fans were captivated as they watched the spectacle unfold, eager to see who would make bold choices and leave a lasting impression on this glamorous night.
My faves:
• Sabrina’s sleek pop-princess look paired with statement boots creates a stunning and unforgettable fashion statement; her vibrant outfits, combined with bold accessories and perfectly styled hair, showcase her unique sense of style and confidence, making her a true trendsetter in the music industry.
• Rosé in an effortlessly chic black dress that screamed modern diva, exuded sophistication and confidence as she gracefully moved through the room, captivating everyone with her poise and style. The dress hugged her figure in all the right places, depicting a flawless blend of elegance and contemporary flair, while the subtle details, like its delicate fabric and stylish cut, added just the right amount of intrigue, making her stand out in the crowd like a true fashion icon.
• Mariah in true Mariah fashion — glamorous, dazzling, and unapologetically extra, always leaving a trail of sparkle wherever she goes. She captivates audiences with her powerful vocals and stunning presence, making every performance a celebration of pop royalty. Mariah’s charisma and larger-than-life persona create an unforgettable experience for her fans, making each moment feel like a magical escape into opulence and artistry.
My Take 💭
The show had its highs and lows, but it definitely gave us plenty to talk about. I loved seeing new artists shine next to legends, creating a beautiful juxtaposition that highlighted the evolution of music. It felt nostalgic and forward-thinking, stirring up emotions and sparking conversations among fans and critics alike. This mix of veteran performers and fresh talent celebrated the rich history of the industry while showcasing the emerging voices that will shape its future — and that’s what makes the VMAs special. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, reminding us why we love music and the artists who create it.
So what did you think? Who was your best dressed? Who had the performance of the night? (I’m still replaying Tate McRae’s set in my head!)
The A List Updates 📰✨
A little life + blog update before I go:
• The first Fall Edition of The A List is dropping September 21st
(so excited to finally share all the cozy-season inspo 🍂).
• This month you’ll also see new fashion, lifestyle, and beauty editions popping up weekly, so keep an eye out on the site.
• Plus, I’ve got fresh blog posts scheduled all week — so if you loved this recap, there’s more where that came from.
Stay tuned, babes — The A List is only just getting started. 💋


8 responses to “2025 VMAs Highlights: Winners, Performances, and Fashion Moments”
You’re amazing. I love learning about you and your fashion.
Thank you Josh!! That means a lot!
I’m kind of into BLACKPINK🖤💗.. And especially Rosé❤️❤️
Yess!! Love them!
Ok this was remarkable 👏 👌 The way it was written it was like I was right there with you. This is like Austyn’s superpower I can sense the excitement, the awesome & woder in your words. I can picture each emotion you expressed & that is what brings me joy. Though I didn’t watch it live i have seen clips. It’s hard to beat an Icon like Mariah Carey 💫🌟.
What i am most excited for is all that you have in store for us. Oh and you already are a star 🌟 in your own right & in my eyes. You are your own trend setter & an inspiration to many! You are unique, special & loved 💜🩵🤍💓💜🩵🤍💓💜🩵🤍💓🫶💪😘🙏💫🔥🥰😊💎✨️
Awww I am so happy you liked it!! Thank you so much!!💖💖💖
Darn autocorrect. It was supposed to say This is like Austyn’s Superbowl not superpower. Sorry
Haha you are all good!