Award shows are becoming fashion events - Lydia Forson sparks debate over red carpet culture

Lydia Forson has sparked debate after questioning the growing dominance of fashion over artistic achievement at award ceremonies. Lydia Forson said award shows are gradually shifting from platforms that celebrate films, music and creative work into events where red carpet fashion appears to take centre stage. She stated, "I love fashion. I love a great red carpet moment and trust me, I enjoy dressing up as much as anyone else, and if you know me, you'll know I'm obsessed with fashion. But when I attend an awards show, I'm there first because of the work. Because of film. Because of music. Because of the art. The red carpet should complement the event, not become the entire event."

Lydia Forson argued that the shift places additional pressure on artistes to deliver standout fashion moments for social media attention. She suggested creating separate events such as fashion galas or Met Gala-inspired showcases for dedicated fashion platforms. Lydia Forson stressed that award shows must remain focused on the work of artistes, insisting that without films, music and performances, there would be no red carpet. She said, "Lately, it feels like more conversation happens around outfits than the actual winners, performances, projects, or progress within the industry itself. We spend more time rewarding 'best dressed' than discussing the art that made the event possible in the first place. Because without the films, the music, the performances, there is no carpet to begin with."

Her comments have since generated discussions online. Some agree that award shows are becoming overly fashion-driven, while others maintain that fashion is now an inseparable part of modern entertainment culture.