Great Outfits in Fashion History: Doja Cat's Vivienne Westwood AMAs Gown

There are perfectly good celebrity style moments, and then there are the looks that really stick with you, the ones you try desperately to recreate at home. In 'Great Outfits in Fashion History,' Fashionista editors are revisiting their all-time favorite lewks.

I can't help but love Doja Cat, even if I don't necessarily love everything she does, because she tries to stay true to herself in an industry that often coaxes otherwise. She chooses to go from wearing what's traditionally sexy (think: a sheer Georges Hobeika gown) to the peculiar and even grotesque. Case in point: Her mixed-material Vivienne Westwood ensemble for the 2020 American Music Awards (where she walked away with the Favorite Female Artist Soul/R&B award).

The gown by the late British designer featured a silky corseted bodice the color of mud with a speckled sheer upper, with a layered mixed-fabric skirt. Wearing her hair slicked-back, the artist accessorized with a funky chain belt, emerald nails and gaudy jewelry. Altogether, the look is artfully garbled: It's aware of a certain (male) gaze and rejects traditional notions of what a red carpet dress should be.

The look has an energy that reminds me of greats like Alexander McQueen and Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as contemproary stars like Collina Strada or Batsheva. Doja Cat has always had a punk quality, a tendency to go against what's desired from her. As Essence put it in its write-up of her hair-for-clothes 2024 Coachella performance look, she's a "radical fashion chameleon." This was in full effect in 2020, as it is today.

Keep scrolling to shop pieces inspired by Doja Cat's Vivienne Westwood outfit, but for the everyday.

Guizio Satin Corset, $128, available here (sizes XS-XL)

Hanifa Lori Corset, $149 $74, available here (sizes XS - 3XL)

Naked Wardrobe Sheer Off-Shoulder Mesh Top, $74, available here (sizes XS-XL)

Misbhv floral-print ruffled mini skirt, $412 $165, available here (sizes XS-XL)

Kimchi Blue Talia Denim & Lace Midi Skirt, $119, available here (sizes S-L)

Y/Project Lace-Trimmed Asymmetric Maxi Skirt, $910, available here (sizes 2-8)

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