I'm a Culture Writer, and This Is Everything I Pack For Award Shows
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As someone who calls herself a geriatric millennial influencer, attending the MTV Video Music Awards felt like stepping into a dream I've had since childhood. Growing up, the VMAs were a yearly highlight. I'd eagerly anticipate the event to watch jaw-dropping performances, discover new artists, and celebrate the icons who shaped my love for music, like Janet Jackson and Beyoncé. This year, I finally got to attend in person and couldn't contain my excitement. I was thrilled to see the impact of Black artists across several genres on the VMAs stage, from Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla rapping to Lenny Kravitz being recognized for his contribution to rock.
The evening began with a stop by the exclusive Bacardi lounge, where the vibe was electric. I enjoyed sipping on a Moonwalk Mojito while soaking in the atmosphere and watching Bacardi's global ambassador, Camila Cabello, light up the stage with her performance. Legends like LL Cool J and Lenny Kravitz delivered performances that took me back to my teenage years, reminding me why I fell in love with music and culture in the first place. And of course, Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla commanded the stage with ease.
I was thrilled to see the impact of Black artists across several genres on the VMAs stage, from Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla rapping to Lenny Kravitz being recognized for his contribution to rock.
Knowing that the VMAs would be an all-day event — between prepping and attending the show — I knew I had to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. I opted for a party-ready dress that was both flattering and fashion-forward. And when it came to shoes, I ditched high heels for chic flats because comfortable footwear goes a long way when you're standing on your feet all day. Finally, to complete my look, I went for a natural, no-makeup makeup look. I used blurring powder from one of my favorite Black-owned beauty brands by celebrity makeup artist Danessa Myricks.
The entire experience was literally my childhood dream come true — from the epic performances to the red carpet glamour — and I left feeling both nostalgic and incredibly grateful. The VMAs are more than just an award show; they're a celebration of music, culture, and the artists who shape our lives, and I was thrilled to be there soaking it all in. Keep reading for every essential I pack for award shows, from the VMAs to the BET Awards.
Alexis Felder, widely known as LexiWithTheCurls, is a geriatric millennial and lifestyle influencer based in Atlanta. A trailblazing beauty blogger turned freelance writer, Alexis has contributed to publications such as The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ebony, Essence, MadameNoire, and more. As an avid traveler, she enjoys exploring new destinations and sharing her adventures with her audience.
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Portable Charger
Anker Portable Charger ($18, originally $26)
If I know I will be gone for more than three hours without access to a car charger or being near an outlet, I make sure to have a portable charger on hand. Anker has proven to be a standout brand because of the powerful charge and longevity. It has a 12W output so it gives your phone a lasting charge, and it comes with a built-in lightning connector so you don't have to worry about bringing an extra cord.
After snapping away at the VMAs, my battery was dwindling down but I didn't panic. Since I had this small charger in my purse, I could charge it easily without stress.
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Selfie Light
Rechargeable Selfie Light ($15, originally $17)
My selfie light was the hit of the award show. This option offers 3 light modes and 10 adjustable brightness levels so you get the perfect shot. It also boasts extended battery life so you can get up to 3 hours of use at the brightest setting. Trust me, your friends will absolutely ask to borrow this at your next event.
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Facial Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser ($15, originally $18)
I swear by this cleanser to prep my skin for long nights. The formula is ideal for normal to oily skin, and it features ingredients like niacinamide and prebiotic thermal water to maintain the skin's barrier while also helping to create the perfect foundation for your makeup.
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A Tasty Cocktail
Bacardi X MTV VMA 2024 Limited-Edition Bottle ($25)
As I mentioned before, I loved the Moonwalk Mojito in the Bacardi lounge. I'll be making mine at home with this limited-edition bottle, celebrating their role as the official spirits sponsor of the VMAs. Add some lime juice, mint leaves, sugar syrup, and club soda and you'll have an award-show-worthy drink in the comfort of your own home. It's perfect for a pre-game before a night out.
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Blurring Powder
Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder ($36)
I discovered this black-owned beauty find on TikTok and now, I can't do my makeup without it. It's perfect for all-day events as it absorbs sweat and maintains hydration while still giving you plenty of coverage. If I want a lighter makeup look, I use this product alone but for events, I tend to use it as a primer and add a foundation on top. Either way, it never disappoints.
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Crossbody Bag
Brandon Blackwood Mini Kendrick Trunk ($250)
Another must for any kind of award show, concert, or music festival is a crossbody bag. I love this option from Black-owned brand Brandon Blackwood. The label's signature trunk is just big enough to hold the essentials from lip gloss to your portable charger — and it's versatile enough to complement every look.
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Comfortable Flats
Loeffler Randall Daphne Gold Pleated Bow Slide ($250)
These open toe slip-on flats are the perfect mix of elegant and comfortable, ideal for fancy events when you have to be on your feet for hours. The bow detailing feels just as dressy as heels and pairs well with everything from bright-colored dresses to neutral jumpsuits. The shoe is available in gold (pictured), leopard, gingham, and more.
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Alexis Felder, widely known as LexiWithTheCurls, is a geriatric millennial and lifestyle influencer based in Atlanta. A trailblazing beauty blogger turned freelance writer, Alexis has contributed to publications such as The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ebony, Essence, MadameNoire, and more. As an avid traveler, she enjoys exploring new destinations and sharing her adventures with her audience.