Chappell Roan defends topless dress at 2026 Grammys: 'So awesome and weird'

“I recommend just exercising your free will. It’s really fun and silly," Roan said

Chappell Roan is pushing back against criticism over her daring red carpet look at the 2026 Grammy Awards, defending the outfit after it sparked intense online debate.

The singer made headlines after stepping out in a bold ensemble that gave the illusion of being topless, complete with faux nipple rings and dramatic detailing across the back. The look quickly went viral, with some critics calling it shocking or inappropriate.

Roan, however, wasn’t fazed by the reaction.

“Giggling because I don’t even think this is THAT outrageous of an outfit,” she wrote while addressing the backlash. “The look’s actually so awesome and weird.”

Encouraging fans to embrace personal freedom and self-expression, she added, “I recommend just exercising your free will. It’s really fun and silly.”

Roan also took a moment to thank the Recording Academy and voters for including her in the night’s celebrations. “Thank you for having me Grammys and those who voted for me,” she said.

While she did not take home a Grammy this year despite nominations for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance, Roan returned to the ceremony to present the Best New Artist award — a category she won the previous year.

In past comments, Roan has spoken openly about how public scrutiny affects her when it moves beyond her work. “When it’s not about my art anymore,” she once said, “they hate me because I’m Kayleigh, not because they hate the songs that I make.”