What is the story about?
The 2026 Grammys were barely underway when Sabrina Carpenter made it clear the night would be anything but predictable. Within minutes of the broadcast starting, the singer had transformed the stage into
a theatrical runway, blending pop spectacle, fashion risk, and pure performance confidence. Taking over the stage at Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Carpenter delivered an aviation-themed performance of her hit “Manchild”. The concept was bold and playful, matching the song’s energy while giving the audience plenty to talk about long after the lights dimmed.
sabrina killing another grammys performance, SHE’S A PERFORMER pic.twitter.com/alyCEbgytp
— anthony (@lizziesjuul) February 2, 2026
Dressed in a striking white pilot-inspired outfit, Carpenter leaned fully into the theme. Her look featured a lace-up corseted blazer cut low enough to reveal a matching bra, paired with grommet-detailed hot pants held together by strings. Knee-high go-go boots echoed the same criss-cross detailing, tying the entire outfit together.
The styling did not stop there. Carpenter accessorised with a sparkling ascot, a rhinestone-covered microphone, and a silver-studded captain’s hat complete with personalised initials. A gold brooch resembling an FAA-style wing badge sat proudly on her chest, sealing the flight-ready fantasy. Her blonde curls spilled out from beneath the cap, adding softness to the otherwise structured look.
The staging pushed the idea even further. Carpenter danced across a moving baggage claim carousel, turning a familiar airport image into a playful performance prop.
Carpenter was joined by a group of male dancers dressed as everyday workers, including doctors, firefighters, and sanitation staff.
The performance followed a red carpet appearance that had already set social media buzzing. Earlier in the evening, Carpenter arrived wearing a custom Valentino gown inspired by 1970s boho fashion. The sheer, pearl- and bead-embellished dress featured a tiered ruffled skirt and a cape-like shawl, giving her an ethereal presence that contrasted sharply with the edgy confidence of her stage outfit.
