"The emperor has no clothes on!" was the collective social media gasp as the wholesome country singer-turned-cheeky pop star strutted and winked her way up the red carpet wearing what can best be described as a lacy leotard left over from the Commonwealth Games.

While there was more flesh than fabric on display – here's looking at you Amber Rose in a body baring chain dress by Laura Dewitt and Rita Ora in a racy 'pelvage' baring Donna Karan gown – 24-year-old Swift and her cheeky jumpsuit by British designer Mary Katrantzou sent commentators into a spin.

The singer's game changing wardrobe choice drew a shock reaction because Swift is renowned for her squeaky clean reputation and predilection for floor length, demure gowns at awards shows.

She also has a habit of hiding secret messages in her music, mainly for her ex-boyfriend's including John Mayer, Jake Gyllenhaal and One Direction's Harry Styles, a trend which manifested on her skin tight, short one-piece that was covered in letters.

The Shake It Off singer wasn't the only cheerleader of the fancy leotard look – a trend Cyrus, Beyonce and Katy Perry all dabble in on and off stage – singer/songwriter Charli XCX showed up in a long-sleeved tiger striped number by Moschino.

"I feel sexy in it. I think my spirit animal is probably a tiger," the Boom Clap singer said.

Meanwhile, Katy Perry stormed the red carpet dressed as Britney Spears circa 2001.

Perry, together with her date and most recent collaborator, rapper Riff Raff, wore matching Versace denim ensembles as an homage to Spears and her then boyfriend Justin Timberlake who wore all denim outfits to the 2001 American Music Awards.

Perry updated the look with a thigh-high split and smaller chocker necklace, while Raf ditched Timberlake's denim cowboy hat but added more stud and sparkles to his Canadian tuxedo.

The first wardrobe malfunction of the night came during the opening performance, which was surprising considering the amount of outfits relying on double-sided tape. Rapper Nicki Minaj was the unfortunate victim after her dress split down the front while she performed on stage. The Anaconda singer was forced to finish her number while clutching the fabric together and hiding behind fellow star Jessie J.