Nicki Minaj Was IRL Barbie-Bride at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards

Nicki Minaj has once more solidified her status as the timeless “pink-print” rapper with a sensual Barbie-inspired bridal dress coupled with yet another intriguing performance at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards.

For her annual Barbicore extravaganza, Nicki donned a Dolce & Gabbana ensemble with a sultry twist. Instead of the traditional wedding gown, she flaunted a strapless satin corset embellished with lace accents, paired with a sheer lace mermaid skirt that cascaded into a circular train gracefully sweeping the floor. Completing the look was a matching see-through veil adorned with lace trim, leaving everyone wondering who the real Barbie was.

She complemented her monochromatic pink look with floral-shaped earrings, a diamond tennis bracelet, and an assortment of diamond rings. Her opulent glam makeup featured sparkling pink eyeshadow, precise cat-eye liner, nude lips, and extra-long bejeweled pink nails.

On stage, Minaj literally premiered her latest single, “Last Time I Saw You,” a pop-forward track serving as the lead single from her upcoming album.

In addition to her show-stopping performance, the ‘Barbie-bride’ assumed the role of VMA host for the second consecutive year and garnered six nominations, including Video of the Year and Artist of the Year. Naturally, she shared her excitement with her dedicated ‘Barb fans’ on Instagram in anticipation of the grand night.

Undoubtedly, the 40-year-old rapper is a VMA legend. During last year’s awards, alongside her emcee role, Minaj received the Video Vanguard Award and treated the audience to a mash-up performance featuring a Barbie-inspired medley of her greatest hits, including “Monster,” “Moment 4 Life,” “Anaconda,” and “Super Freaky Girls,” paying homage to her Pink Friday era while dazzling the audience.

Although she returned to the 2023 MTV VMAs show as a host for the second consecutive year, this time she took the stage solo. Last year, she fulfilled her hosting duties as part of an emcee trio alongside LL Cool J and Jack Harlow.