At the 2025 American Music Awards, Janet Jackson was more than a music icon, she was a style statement. Honored with the prestigious Icon Award, the legendary performer captivated audiences not only with her career-spanning influence but also with a head-turning fashion moment that paid homage to her roots.
Held in Las Vegas on May 26, the AMAs celebrated Jackson’s multi-decade impact on music, culture, and performance. The 59-year-old singer delivered her first televised performance in seven years, performing a medley of early 2000s fan favorites like “Someone to Call My Lover” and “All for You.” But before her vocals lit up the stage, her outfit stole the spotlight.
Jackson rocked a bold, fashion-forward look: a cropped white Vetements jacket layered over a simple white tank top, paired effortlessly with oversized denim jeans. She completed the outfit with chunky sneakers and a white headband tucked into her natural curls. The ensemble channeled her signature 1990s aesthetic with a modern twist, reminding fans and fashion critics alike that her style remains as relevant today as ever.
The performance and her look both reflected what fans love about Jackson, timeless energy, confidence, and authenticity. As actress Tasha Smith presented her with the Icon Award, Jackson gave a moving acceptance speech. “No disrespect in any way,” she said, “but I don’t consider myself an icon.” Instead, she credited her family’s love for music as her driving force, rather than fame.
The Icon Award, first introduced in 2013, recognizes artists whose careers have significantly shaped the global music scene. Jackson joins a powerful roster of past recipients including Rihanna and Lionel Richie. Her AMA tribute served as a powerful reminder of her pioneering presence in both sound and style.
Janet Jackson’s influence has never been limited to her vocals or choreography. Her bold fashion statements, then and now, have inspired generations. At the 2025 AMAs, she didn’t just receive an award; she reasserted her legacy with grace, humility, and iconic denim.
