Lady Gaga's 2010 VMA Meat Dress: Trendy Or Tasteless?

The MTV VMAs were held on Sept. 12, and, as usual, were full of celebrities pushing the boundaries with their performances, acceptance speeches, and outfits. One celebrity tested the waters with a variety of outfits (including a peacock-inspired dress worn on the white carpet), but left a bad taste in the mouths of viewers as she wore a dress made of raw meat. This, of course, was none other than Lady Gaga.

Whether or not you're a fan of Lady Gaga, you have likely seen her pictures, heard about a controversial outfit she has worn, or read about a video that was banned from MTV. She is this generation's Madonna, as she continues to make fashion choices that incite shock and awe. For example, who can forget Madonna's barely-there wedding dress ensemble at the 1984 VMAs?

This, of course, wasn't Madonna's only bold fashion statement to appear at the VMAs, as she has appeared in a Marie Antoinette ensemble; a tuxedo and top hat; and, in 2003, another "Like a Virgin"-inspired outfit. All of these outfits were controversial, and only helped Madonna's career. Her fashion choices helped her remain in the spotlight, regardless of her musical talent, and Lady Gaga seems to have chosen a similar route.

At the 1999 VMAs, Lil' Kim came on stage with her full breast exposed, with only a small piece of fabric that covered her nipple. While this was not Lil' Kim's first notorious outfit, it certainly helped her gain attention in the media, as it was one of the most talked-about outfits of the evening. While she may not be as popular in today's music scene, her choice of clothing (or lack thereof) at the VMAs made a statement. Lady Gaga chooses to make statements with her clothing as well, and while she receives her share of negative media attention, it only helps her become more of a household name.

Another celebrity who has made bold fashion choices throughout the history of the VMAs has been Britney Spears. Spears was well-known as an innocent pop star, until a performance in 2000,where she appeared in a flesh-toned bodysuit. She then appeared on the 2001 VMAs and performed in another revealing outfit as she performed "I'm a Slave for You," provocatively dancing with a python on her shoulders. Spears has since performed at the VMAs in other notable ensembles, and again, the attention she received only continued to keep her fame alive and well.

Lady Gaga has only just begun to share her style and vision as an artist with the world. While her meat dress was certainly cringe-worthy, she remains the star of the show, as this incident continues to receive the most press. Stylists continue to debate whether or not the dress was fashion-forward or a bad choice, and even discuss whether or not it was made of real meat. Her image will only continue to be discussed by her fans and those who think she is nothing more than a woman who craves attention, and, because of that, she will remain in the spotlight.

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