Sabrina Carpenter paid homage to Britney Spears with a bedazzled bra performance at the 2025 VMAs, echoing Spears’ iconic 2001 look during her own performance of “Tears”.
During the MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, September 7, 2025, Sabrina Carpenter delivered a memorable performance that channeled the spirit of Britney Spears. She took the stage in a bedazzled fringe bra that closely resembled one worn by Spears during her 2001 Dream Within a Dream Tour, creating a moment of nostalgia for viewers. The event was held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, and broadcast live, captivating audiences with its blend of past and present pop culture.
Styled by Jared Ellner, Carpenter’s outfit featured a halterneck design with intricate beading and fringe that swayed with her movements. She paired the bra with sparkly tights and sequin hot pants, completing the look with shiny black Mary Jane pumps and bold purple eyeshadow. This ensemble not only highlighted her midriff but also paid direct tribute to Spears’ sultry fashion choices from the early 2000s, emphasizing a continuity in pop star aesthetics.
The inspiration for this outfit was Britney Spears’ famous diamond bra, originally designed by Bob Mackie for the 1981 Las Vegas show “Jubilee!” and later adapted for Spears’ tour. Mackie’s creation, which included matching armbands and underwear, was sold at auction for $78,000 in April 2025 by Julien’s Auctions, underscoring its cultural significance. Carpenter’s choice to wear a similar piece demonstrates a thoughtful homage to a defining moment in music history, connecting her rising career to Spears’ legendary status.
Beyond the visual tribute, Carpenter’s performance included manufactured rain on stage, a direct nod to Spears’ own VMAs performances from the past, such as her 2000 appearance. This element added a layer of drama and authenticity to the homage, resonating with fans who recall Spears’ impactful and often imitated award show moments. The rain effect enhanced the emotional intensity of Carpenter’s performance, making it a standout segment of the night.
Carpenter was not only a highlight for her performance but also a big winner at the awards, taking home trophies for Best Pop Artist, Best Album, and Best Visual Effects. These accolades recognize her significant contributions to the music industry over the past year, driven by the success of her album and singles like “Espresso”. Her wins at the VMAs underscore her evolving status as a leading figure in contemporary pop music, building on a year of critical and commercial success.
Her fashion statements extended beyond the performance outfit; she also wore a red embellished Valentino gown on the red carpet, accompanied by a fuzzy light purple shawl, and later changed into a multi-color vintage Bob Mackie creation from the designer’s 1986 spring collection. These costume changes showcased her versatility and attention to detail, highlighting her ability to seamlessly transition between different styles and eras throughout the event.
The tribute to Britney Spears comes amid renewed interest in Spears’ legacy, with recent events and auctions bringing her iconic moments back into the spotlight. Carpenter’s homage not only celebrates a pop icon but also demonstrates her own artistic depth and respect for music history, positioning her as an artist who values and draws from the foundations of pop culture. This performance is likely to inspire further discussions about the influences and evolution of pop music over the decades.
As the VMAs concluded, social media and news outlets buzzed with praise for Carpenter’s performance, with many noting how it skillfully blended nostalgia with contemporary pop excellence. This event is expected to further cement her status in the entertainment industry, with anticipation building for her future projects and potential collaborations. The successful homage serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of legends like Spears and the ways new artists can honor and build upon their legacies.