Pop star dismisses backlash after unveiling a Mugler outfit that left little to the imagination

Chappell Roan has brushed aside criticism of the revealing outfit she wore on the Grammy Awards red carpet, insisting the look was neither shocking nor outrageous, despite sparking intense debate online.

The US pop star arrived at the ceremony in a blood-red chiffon ensemble by Mugler, initially concealed beneath a dramatic cape. Moments later, she removed the covering to reveal a draped dress suspended from nipple rings, exposing most of her upper body. The daring outfit quickly became one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the night.

Roan appeared unfazed by the reaction. Posting on Instagram after the ceremony, she joked about the uproar, saying she was “giggling” at the response and did not believe the outfit was “that outrageous”. She described the look as “so awesome and weird” and encouraged followers to embrace their free will, calling the experience “really fun and silly”.

The singer also thanked the Grammys and those who voted for her, signalling that she viewed the attention as part of the spectacle rather than a controversy worth regretting.

Reaction to the outfit was sharply divided. Many fans rushed to her defence, praising her confidence and celebrating her as a fashion risk-taker. Some labelled her a “goddess” and an “icon”, applauding her for challenging expectations on one of music’s most scrutinised red carpets.

Others framed the backlash as an example of double standards in the industry. Several fans pointed to Justin Bieber’s appearance during the ceremony, where he performed wearing only boxer shorts, arguing that his near-naked look attracted far less criticism. One supporter wrote that if male artists could appear in minimal clothing without comment, Roan should be free to do the same without judgment.

However, not everyone was impressed. Critics questioned whether the outfit crossed a line, with some suggesting it was excessive for the event. Responses on social media ranged from discomfort to outright disapproval, with comments asking why artists felt the need to push boundaries so far.

The debate also reignited wider conversations about fashion, gender, and artistic expression. Nipple pasties and jewellery, such as those worn by Roan, have long featured in avant-garde fashion, often used to provoke discussion about the body and societal norms. Supporters argued that her look fit squarely within that tradition.

Fashion writer and stylist Alex Fullerton weighed in on the discussion, noting that Mugler has a long history of embracing transparency and bold silhouettes. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Fullerton said the label has worked with exposed forms and challenging designs since the 1980s, suggesting Roan’s outfit honoured that legacy. Still, Fullerton added, the reaction was inevitable given how striking the look was.

Roan’s appearance highlights how the Grammys red carpet remains a battleground for self-expression, where artists balance spectacle, artistry and public scrutiny. While some see such outfits as unnecessary provocation, others view them as an essential part of pop culture’s evolution.

For Roan, the message was clear. She showed no signs of retreating from her choices or apologising for the attention they generated. Instead, she leaned into the conversation with humour and confidence, framing the moment as playful rather than scandalous.

As the debate continues, her outfit has already secured its place as one of the defining visual moments of this year’s Grammys. Whether praised or criticised, it ensured that Roan dominated the post-ceremony conversation, proving once again that fashion can be as powerful as music when it comes to capturing the public’s attention.