Sienna Spiro brought 1960s glamour to her first MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, 27 September. She wore a custom Valentino gown on the red carpet, performed in a metallic mini dress and left with the Best New Artist trophy.
The ceremony took place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, where Spiro beat six other nominees: Bella Kay, Cortis, Magnus Ferrell, Malcolm Todd, Myles Smith and Stella Lefty. Last year's winner, Alex Warren, presented her with the award.
'I didn't think this would happen,' Spiro said in a short speech. She thanked her fans, team at Capitol Records, and her family.
A Champagne Gown for a Red Carpet Debut
Spiro dialled up the glamour for her red carpet debut. She wore an embellished nude illusion gown with a deep neckline, according to ELLE, which has crowned her 'the voice of Gen Z Yearners'. The champagne-hued dress was a custom Valentino design paired with Jimmy Choo pointed-toe pumps and a tiny bag.
Vinyl Theatrics on Stage
Later in the night, Spiro made her VMAs stage debut with a performance of her chart-topping single 'Great Expectation'.
She appeared in a metallic mini dress that AOL compared to the look from Barbarella. According to Rolling Stone, Spiro began the performance under a spotlight on a replica vinyl record positioned beside a turntable. The lights then came up to reveal a large band, including horn and string sections, as well as backing vocalists. Billboard reported that Spiro received a standing ovation after the performance.
Why the '60s Look Is No Accident
Spiro's interest in 1960s style is rooted in her upbringing. According to ELLE, her father was born in the decade and introduced her to artists including the Ronettes, the Shangri-Las and the Supremes.
Her beauty references also include 1960s model Twiggy. Spiro has spoken about being drawn to Twiggy's cat-eye makeup and doll-like lashes, despite initially questioning whether she could pull off the recognisable mod look. The style 'felt so right and natural' when she eventually tried it. Her distinctive vocals and retro-inspired styling have prompted comparisons with artists including Nancy Sinatra, Amy Winehouse and Adele.
Sienna Spiro's Breakthrough Year
Spiro's VMAs win comes during a rapid rise in her music career. She began posting singing videos on TikTok in 2021 before being signed by Capitol Records. She released her debut EP, Sink Now, Swim Later, in 2025, followed by her first album, Visitor, on 3 July. The album reached No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 9 on the Billboard 200.
On 11 September, 'Great Expectation' reached No. 1 in the UK, making Spiro the youngest British female artist to top the Official Singles Chart in 12 years. Billboard reported that the song had spent three consecutive weeks at No. 1 spot.
Spiro turned 21 the day after the VMAs. She is scheduled to perform at Austin City Limits on 2 to 4 October and 9 to 11 October, before beginning a North American tour in Nashville on 13 October. The tour is scheduled to conclude in Los Angeles on 12 November.
