Reba McEntire Sparkles, Taylor Swift Dazzles and More Country Star Style on the ACM Awards Red Carpet Through the Years

The Academy of Country Music Awards are Thursday in Frisco, Texas, and will feature some of the biggest names in the country music industry. Among the 2024 nominees, many attended their first ACM Awards ceremony years ago, walking the red carpet in designer looks. The ACM Awards have been a coveted prize in the industry for decades, dating back to the ’60s, with stars like Reba McEntire, Taylor Swift, LeAnn Rimes and more walking the red carpet.

In preparation for the 2024 ACM Awards, see photos from the ACM Awards red carpet over the years, from the early ’80s to today.

More from WWD

1981

bobbie gentry, acm awards
Bobbie Gentry at the 1981 ACM Awards.

Bobbie Gentry attended the 1981 ACM Awards in this sparkling number that was incredibly on-trend for the decade. The singer’s dress featured a high slit with a cutout on the bodice and several sparkles.

1997

leann rimes, acm awards
LeAnn Rimes at the 1997 ACM Awards.

LeAnn Rimes was still a teenager when she attended the ACM Awards in 1997. The singer wore a youthful dress with delicate floral embroidery throughout. Her hair also featured white flowers to complement her monochrome look.

2000

reba mcentire, acm awards
Reba McEntire at the 2000 ACM Awards.

In 2000, 16-time ACM Award-winner Reba McEntire wore this sparkling lilac gown to the ceremony. She accessorized with shimmering jewelry as well.

2006

carrie underwood, acm awards
Carrie Underwood at the 2006 ACM Awards.

After winning “American Idol” in 2005, Carrie Underwood became a fixture at the ACM Awards. In 2006, she attended the ceremony in a gold satin gown.

2009

taylor swift, acm awards
Taylor Swift at the 2009 ACM Awards.

Taylor Swift attended the ACM Awards in 2009 wearing a burning red, one-shoulder dress. She accessorized the elegant look with statement earrings.

2022

lainey wilson, acm awards
Lainey Wilson at the 2022 ACM Awards.

In 2022, Lainey Wilson brought her own signature style to the ACM Awards red carpet. She wore an embroidered coat and flared pants for a completely vintage aesthetic.

The Academy of Country Music Awards were first held in 1966 and honor industry performers for their accomplishments during the previous year. This year’s nominees include Kane Brown, Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll, among others. There will be performances by Jason Aldean, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert and more. ACM Award-winner Reba McEntire will serve as host for the evening.

Launch Gallery: ACM Awards Red Carpet Through the Years: From the Archives [PHOTOS]

Best of WWD