A look at Shakira’s epic looks at the MTV VMAs

Shakira is making her VMA comeback tonight, where she’s getting the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard award.

Andrea PérezDeputy Editor - U.S.

SEPTEMBER 12, 2023 11:10 AM EDTSEP 12, 2023, 11:10 AM EDT

Shakira is an MTV icon. Known for her amazing music videos released in an era where these seemed to make up a bulk of what we watched onscreen, she’s long been a fixture at the MTV Video Music Awards. This year’s VMAs mark a special occasion though. Tonight, Shakira is set to join the ranks of Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and more pop icons, receiving the Video Vanguard Award. She’s the first South American artist to achieve this recognition. Aside from a speech, Shakira will also be giving a performance that celebrates her multifaceted and succesful career.

Earlier this week, Shakira shared a photo of her rehearsals, prompting excitement from fans who can’t wait for tonight. The post shows her on her back, contorting her body and smiling for the camera. “Guess which song this pose is from? Can’t wait for Tuesday!” she wrote.

Whether Shakira is walking the red carpet or giving it all onstage, she’s always left her mark on the VMA stage. Scroll down to have a look at some of the outfits she’s worn to one of the most culturally relevant moments of the year:

2001 MTV Video Music Awards - Press Room

Shakira at the 2001 MTV VMAs

Shakira’s first appearance at the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards referenced her biggest music video to date, “Whenever, Wherever,” which made a splash in international markets. It peaked at number six in the Billboard Hot 100.

Shakira at the 2002 VMA’s

The next year, Shakira showed off an entirely different style. She also performed at the VMA’s, singing “Objection” and showing off her skills in dancing Tango.

Shakira’s 2002 VMA performance

While her red carpet look relied more on the fashion of the era, her onstage look is Shakira through and through, known for her bohemian style and earthy tones.

MTV Video Music Awards Latin America 2004 - Press Room

Shakira at the 2004’s MTV Video Music Awards Latin America

In 2004, Shakira made an appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards Latin America. The shows were discontinued in 2009 but celebrated the best music videos made in Latin America. That year, they were hosted in Miami.

For the occasion, Shakira wore a purple top, some low-rise dark jeans, and burgundy pumps. She tied the look together with a maroon belt.

Shakira at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards

She changed her outfit for the show itself, wearing an all black ensemble.

Shakira at the 2005 MTV VMAs

In 2005, Shakira was joined by Alejandro Sanz in one of the hottest performances to ever grace the VMA stage. The two performed their hit song “La Tortura,” with Shakira showing off her stunning vocals and mesmerizing moves. The song remains one of Shakira’s most successful hits and one that might be tributed in tonight’s performance.

Shakira performs on stage at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards

Shakira at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards

In 2006, Shakira performed “Hips Don’t Lie” at the MTV VMAs. The song, featuring Wyclef Jean, was featured in the World Cup and went on to become one of her greatest hits. To this day, its’ one of the best-selling singles of all time.

Shakira at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards

In 2009, Shakira stunned at the MTV VMAs with a short black dress and some knee-high leather boots. She wore her hair loose and rounded out the look with a black clutch purse.

Shakira at the 2010’s MTV Europe Music Awards

Shakira’s performance at the 2010’s MTV Europe Music Awards was vibrant and fun. It featured a medley of “Loca” and “Waka Waka,” paired with some amazing dancing that worked well with her frilly pants.