You know what you’re getting at MTV’s VMAs when it comes to style… there’s always going to be over-the-top fashion and this year Nicki Minaj delivered on that front. Most stars were far more tame though, and many sported new hairstyles. Here’s who wore what:

RIHANNA
The hair chameleon debuted her new and adorable pixie! She kept her look very understated and simple wearing a pretty white gown with gathered waist detailing, which she paired with strappy sandals.

TAYLOR SWIFT
The country cutie, who has been sporting lots of retro Jackie Kennedy inspired looks lately, went sleek in all white. She wore a J. Mendel ivory silk crepe tuxedo Jacket with shawl collar, decollete blouse and silk crepe pants. She finished the look with strappy heels, straight hair and crimson lips and nails. Well done!

ALICIA KEYS
Goes for the silver in her one-shoulder metallic gown with thigh high split. She also showed off her short, sassy ‘do. “I’ve been wanting to cut it for years, she told us on the red carpet. “And didn’t really know what to do or why. Then all of a sudden, it all made sense, and I just — snip, snip, snip.”

KATY PERRY
Sporting darker locks with loose waves, the singer wore an Elie Saab black gown with leather bodice, sequin floral embroidery and a sheer skirt with long train. For someone who’s worn angel wings, a cupcake bra and a cheeky ensemble complete with exploding fireworks, this was a little underwhelming for the occasion. I wanted and expected a more fun, upbeat look.

MILEY CYRUS
“I want to keep everything, like real simple,” Miley told us. “It’s easier now that I have short hair. I feel like it’s enough of a look of its own.” But Miley didn’t let just her hair do the talking. The star took the plunge in a black Emilio Pucci gown with sheer panels. She finished the look with a sparkly Edie Parker clutch and Lorraine Schwartz jewels. “It’s just a good new look,” she says of her bleach blond faux hawk, “and all this new stuff is happening for me, so I’m really happy.” And it showed!