“All eyes on the midriff” should have been the only instruction given at the 2026 Grammy’s 

If there was one thing the 2026 Grammy Awards made unmistakably clear, it was that subtlety stayed home. The night delivered its usual splendid mix of music’s biggest names, boundary-pushing performances, and a red carpet that reminded us why the Grammys remain fashion’s most unpredictable foreground. This year’s arrivals ran the gamut, from polished couture drama to playful theatricality, but at one end of that spectrum sat a trend that refused to be ignored: the exposed midriff.

This wasn’t about teasing cut-outs or strategic slashes. The midriff at the Grammys 2026 was direct, deliberate, and unapologetically in-your-face. Think plunging necklines that dipped dangerously low, silhouettes that erased fronts and backs entirely, and sheer fabrics that left little to the imagination. It was bold, confident, and unmistakably one of the night’s defining fashion statements.

Kehlani

Kehlani leaned into controlled sensuality in a cut-out gown by Valerian Sahiti that felt perfectly aligned with the Grammys’ anything-goes dress code. The midriff-baring silhouette struck a balance between elegance and edge, while the details, right down to her “Ice Out” pin, added a playful, personal touch. It was understated confidence with just enough bite.

Addison Rae

Addison Rae delivered a softer, more whimsical take on the trend in a plunging Alaïa tutu dress. Equal parts cutesy and couture, the look fused balletcore romance with a daring neckline that kept it firmly in red-carpet territory. Proof that this midriff moment didn’t have to scream, it could flirt too! 

Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan ensured no one would forget her arrival. Dressed (quite a stretch!) in a burgundy chiffon Mugler creation by Miguel Castro Freitas, her red carpet look was sheer, fluid, and deliberately provocative. With the cape removed, the dress revealed itself to be entirely backless and frontless, leaving her chest exposed and the nipple-baring detail unmistakably intentional. It was a theatrical, high-fashion moment so bold it necessitated a wardrobe change before she took the stage.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor took cut-outs to sculptural heights in a custom Haider Ackermann for Tom Ford design. The sand-toned gown clung to her frame with shimmering precision, wrapping around her torso and neck while leaving her midriff boldly on display. Paired with warm-toned jewellery, the look was powerful, polished, and uber commanding.

Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr embraced the darker side of the trend in a black, sheer ensemble with a plunging neckline that oozed modern glamour. The barely-there fabric and fearless silhouette placed her firmly among the night’s boldest dressers, proving that skin-revealing fashion can still feel sleek, intentional, and effortlessly cool.

Leah Kateb

Love Island star Leah Kateb went all-in with a black Tom Ford dress that erased traditional structure altogether. Frontless, sideless, and backless, the look was daring in its purest form, less about suggestion and more about full commitment. It was a statement-making debut that matched the night’s fearless fashion energy.

The Grammys have always thrived on fashion that sparks conversation, and in 2026, the exposed midriff is officially our talking point! It’s not about fleeting trends or subtle styling tricks; it’s more about confidence, body autonomy, and choosing as boldly as can be. With a red carpet that truly had range, the midriff moment marked one extreme of the spectrum, reminding us that when it comes to Grammy style, playing it safe has never been the point.

All images: Getty Images 

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