Chappell Roan's bold Mugler nipple-ring dress at the 2026 Grammys relied on creative techniques to balance shock value with coverage. Her makeup artist revealed using gum wrappers to secure the faux piercings. The look sparked widespread reactions, including from Roan herself.
Chappell Roan's appearance on the red carpet at the 2026 Grammys turned heads with her gravity-defying Mugler dress featuring prominent nipple rings. The outfit, which blurred the line between daring and covered, was crafted with meticulous attention to detail by her team.
Makeup artist and prosthetics expert Sasha Glasser explained the process in an interview with Allure shortly after the February 2026 ceremony. To create the faux piercings, Glasser attached the gown's nipple rings to prosthetic coverings painted to match Roan's skin tone. A stretchy nude mesh was layered over the prosthetics for added support, as the coverings alone could not hold the weight of the rings and fabric.
The challenge came in piercing the mesh and prosthetics before painting. Glasser and stylist Genesis Webb used gum wrappers to keep the rings clean during this step. “Genesis and I tested it,” Glasser said. “We’d put the ring in the prosthetic and tug, and it would rip out, so that was scary.” The goal was practical: “The idea was for her to not be so naked,” Glasser noted, opting for the blurred-out effect.
The final look proved effective, with Billboard's Instagram video amassing over 50 million views in 24 hours. Roan later addressed the buzz on her Instagram, posting photos and writing, “Giggling because I don’t even think this is THAT outrageous of an outfit.” She continued, “The look’s actually so awesome and weird. I recommend just exercising your free will it’s really fun and silly … Thank you for having me @grammys and those who voted for me!!”
After the red carpet, Roan switched to a cream-colored dress to present the best new artist award, which she had won in 2025. This year, the honor went to Olivia Dean.
