During a live pre-show, a segment dubbed “VMA Fashion Flashbacks” was a nostalgic attempt to remind us of the award show’s iconic fashion moments pre-coronavirus, when celebs could walk the red carpet without needing to worry about masks and social distancing: Lizzo sizzling in a custom red-sequin Moschino column, Cardi B in a white cone-bra jumpsuit by Christian Siriano, Taylor Swift glittering in a colorful Versace blazer and thigh-high boots.

But these flashbacks also reminded us that the VMAs red carpet has always been about fashion moments that flaunt individual style with a serious side of carefree preening. And that spirit still glimmered despite the remoteness of it all.

Here are some of the most stylish moments of the night:

1. DABABY

DaBaby rocks the virtual red carpet at the 2020 VMAs.

Getty Images for MTV

Getty Images for MTV

The “Rockstar” rapper wore his love of logos on his sleeve (literally): a Dolce & Gabbana cap, a Supreme jacket and Louis Vuitton shorts.

2. SOFIA CARSON

The singer and actress brought the glam in a one-shoulder Giambattista Valli peplum gown.

3. MACHINE GUN KELLY

The rapper-singer and actor accepted his Moon Person for best alternative music video in a hot pink Berluti double-breasted suit styled with a matching sleeveless turtleneck underneath. Alternative? Yes. Winning? Major yes!

4. NICOLE RICHIE

The fashion plate — whose alter ego Nikki Fre$h took over the virtual red carpet tonight — served punk princess vibes in a strong-shouldered chartreuse minidress complete with a train and spiky bejeweled headband. She revealed that she chose the dress for its color as a nod to her upcoming socially conscious album, which is all about “organic vegetables.”

5. JOEY KING

Opting for a fall-inspired floral Versace mini-dress, the actress — who was on-hand to present — endearingly shared the secret styling tricks she used to achieve her look: Spanx, lots of makeup on her legs “so they look shiny” and extensions. We stan an honest Joey King.

6. MILEY CYRUS

True to the fashion icon’s penchant for naked dressing, Cyrus sizzled in a sheer, strapless, sparkly Mugler gown styled with matching gloves.

7. KEKE PALMER

The host served up an eclectic offering of looks, but this feathery frock was a welcome dose of whimsy.

8. LADY GAGA

Lady Gaga, 2020 VMAs Tricon honoree

Getty Images for MTV

Getty Images for MTV

Getty Images for MTV

Accepting the Moon Person for best collaboration for her and Ariana Grande’s hit single “Rain on Me”, Gaga’s rainbow shredded gown, complete with a hot pink mask, was an eye-popping combination of performance art, fashion and function.

9. DOJA CAT

Red carpet or not, it’s not the VMAs without body-hugging chainmail, a plunging neckline and some seriously sexy jewels. Doja Cat showed us how it’s done in this Versace mini-dress.

10. MALUMA

Monochromatic anything is a bold look — but in highlighter yellow, it’s even bolder. It’s also proof that the best Latin music video recipient was a bright spot of the night.

11. TAYLOR SWIFT

Embracing the comforts of quarantine, Swift ditched her signature sparkle and instead accepted her speech from a remote location dressed in a blue striped button down. Topped with curly bangs and with buttons undone for a casual effect, she personifies cozy chic.

13. BELLA HADID

No one loves a ’90s fashion moment more than Bella Hadid. On hand to present, the supermodel opted for a minimal, sheer black bodysuit and trouser by Nensi Dojaka.