Remembering 2024's Most Controversial Moments in Fashion
From Lenny Kravitz’s backless suit to Kim Kardashian wearing Princess Diana's necklace, these left opinions divided.
From unexpected outfits to bold statements, 2024 saw a number of fashion moments that weren’t just eye-catchingly beautiful, but sparking discussion, including through controversy. Celebrities stepped onto the red carpet and into the spotlight, embracing daring looks that veered away from tradition, and fueled buzz.
Lenny Kravitz, known for his fearless style, made waves at the Golden Globes with his backless Alexander McQueen suit—an audacious departure from the usual menswear and a statement of sheer confidence. Kim Kardashian grabbed attention by flaunting Princess Diana’s iconic cross necklace, adding to her ever-growing collection of vintage celebrity memorabilia. Meanwhile, those like Hailey and Justin Bieber continued to redefine couples outfits in their own lane.
These moments showcased how fashion continues to evolve, embracing bold individuality while also sparking debate on what’s too much, too soon, or perhaps too little. Read on to remember the year's most controversial moments in fashion.
The Victoria Secret's Fashion Show Return
The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show made its big comeback in 2024, but its angel wings seem clipped by a lack of evolution. Despite promises of a more inclusive, reimagined spectacle, fans were left underwhelmed by what some called lackluster outfits. Even though icons like Cher and Tyla performed, the new show felt a little too much like the old one.
Cynthia Erivo's Witchy Wicked Press Tour Look
Cynthia Erivo cast a stylish spell on the Wicked press tour in Mexico City with her custom Thom Browne look. Forget Elphaba’s signature green—this outfit leaned into eerie, surreal vibes with its angular waist and illusionistic touches. The pièce de résistance? A second pair of hands with talons that called to an old Wizard of Oz scene, making the look equal parts haunting and unforgettable in the best way.
Alessandro Michele's Valentino Debut
Alessandro Michele's highly anticipated debut at Valentino came with a surprise Resort collection of 171 looks. The former Gucci creative director blended Valentino’s signature Roman elegance with his own eccentric, retro-inspired aesthetic. The result? A new era the luxury house that has marked a totally new chapter for Valentino.
Addison Rae's Padded Bra at the VMAs
Addison Rae turned heads at the VMAs in a bold ensemble that featured a custom Claire Sullivan ultra-padded bra, panties, and chiffon train. Rae cited Madonna as her inspiration, with her own twist, of course. And it felt a little Björk inspired. While the look flirted with camp, fans were divided. Either way, the VMAs is the red carpet to have a little more fun.
Hedi Slimane's Celine Departure
Hedi Slimane's departure from Celine after a transformative seven-year tenure left loyal fans heartbroken. Known for breathing new life into the brand with his signature sleek and edgy aesthetic, his exit marked the end of an era—and many still wonder what's next for Slimane, who was rumored to be Chanel's next creative director before the position went to Matthieu Blazy. Michael Rider took over at Celine after Slimane.
Pantless Celebrities
The no-pants trend continues to take Hollywood by storm, with stars like Kristen Stewart, Jennifer Lopez, and Keke Palmer proving that less really can be more. Bold, unconventional, and a little eyebrow-raising, these leg-baring looks made headlines and left everyone talking.
Blake Lively's It Ends With Us Press Tour
Blake Lively’s press tour for It Ends With Us featured a wardrobe full of floral looks, perfectly chic but strikingly off-key. Fans couldn’t help but point out the disconnect between her cheerful outfits and the film’s heavy themes, namely of domestic abuse, which she noticeably steered clear of focusing on in interviews.
Kamala Harris's DNC Outfits
Vice President Kamala Harris made a bold statement at the final night of the Democratic National Convention, opting for a navy Chloé suit instead of suffragette white, what many expected she may wear as a history-making woman running for president. Navy, often associated with authority and leadership, subtly underscored her readiness for the role of Commander in Chief, signaling power without saying a word.
Kim Kardashian's Ongoing Obsession With Deceased Celebrity Memorabilia
Kim Kardashian's latest homage to history came at this year's LACMA gala, where she sported Princess Diana’s cross necklace. The 1920s pendant, once worn by the royal at a charity gala in 1987, adds to Kim’s growing collection of coveted "dead celeb" items—a trend that's intriguing and controversial to some.
Hailey Bieber and Justin Bieber Mismatch Some More
The couple is, at this point, known to never show up in a traditional match-y couples outfit. They continued that this year, going as far as making an appearance combining Wall Street with cowboy aesthetics.
Heidi Klum's Halloween Costume
Heidi Klum’s Halloween costumes are always highly anticipated, and this year, she did not disappoint. She stunned in a vibrant peacock look, complete with an elaborate ensemble and a breathtaking tail that fully embraced the drama of the holiday.
Lil Nas x Power Ranger VMAs Look
Lil Nas X made a bold entrance at the VMAs in a pink Power Ranger suit, paying homage to the iconic '90s show. The nostalgic ensemble had fans divided—some loved the playful throwback, while others were a little unsure about the look.
Lenny Kravitz's Risqué Backless Suit
Lenny Kravitz brought the heat at the Golden Globes in a daring Alexander McQueen backless suit. It's always fun to see men take risks and break away from the typical black suit, and Kravitz nailed this break from tradition.