Bebe Rexha has fondly recounted a moment of support from fellow artist Taylor Swift that occurred during a particularly challenging phase in her career prior to the 2019 Grammy Awards. As she reflected on this experience at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, Rexha expressed her gratitude for Swift’s outreach, emphasizing the significance of belonging and validation in an industry that can often overlook individuals based on their appearance.
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Rexha, now 37, recalled feeling isolated as she faced difficulty securing a dress for the Grammy ceremony. Many designers turned her away, citing her size as a reason for their refusal to create a custom gown. In a recent interview with E! News at the VMAs, she opened up about the challenges she faced and noted how extraordinary it was for someone as renowned as Swift to reach out during that time.
“We’re the same age, and it was really kind of her to make me feel like I belonged,” Rexha remarked about Swift. “There weren’t many who reached out to me; some did, but for her at such a high level to express that I mattered was incredibly meaningful.” This gesture from Swift stood out to Rexha amid the harsh realities of the fashion industry.
Rexha’s experience at the 2019 Grammys was particularly poignant as she was nominated for both Best New Artist and Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Her excitement was tainted by frustration regarding the lack of options available to her in terms of attire. In a now-deleted Instagram post, she voiced her disappointment over the designers’ unwillingness to dress her due to her size, which she categorised as a size 6-8.
In her video, she passionately advocated for body inclusivity, critiquing an industry that often marginalises women above a certain size. “You’re saying all the women in the world that are a size 8 and up are not beautiful and that they cannot wear your dresses,” Rexha expressed, firmly stating, “So to all the people who said I’m thick and I can’t wear your dress, f–k you, I don’t want to wear your f—ing dresses.” Her bold comments resonated with many, igniting a conversation about body positivity and representation in the fashion world.
Rexha’s social media post also urged designers to rethink their criteria for beauty and to celebrate all body types. “If you don’t like my fashion style or my music that’s one thing,” she asserted. “But don’t say you can’t dress someone that isn’t a runway size. Empower women to love their bodies instead of making girls and women feel less than by their size. We are beautiful at any size! Small or large!”
The singer’s advocacy did not go unnoticed. August Getty, a prominent designer, responded to her Instagram post, offering to craft a dress for the Grammys, affirming, “You are beautiful! Every woman of every size is beautiful!” This gesture highlighted a growing awareness among some designers regarding the need for inclusivity in their creations.
Fast forward to the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, where Rexha, alongside Swift, celebrated female empowerment in the music industry. At this year’s event, Swift was honoured with the inaugural Artist Director Honors, recognising her significant contributions both in front of the camera and behind it. This accolade is indicative of Swift’s longstanding commitment to advancing the art of music video production and storytelling, and her efforts to elevate other women in the industry.
Rexha’s reflections come at a time when body inclusivity and diversity are increasingly acknowledged as crucial issues within the fashion industry and beyond. The support she received from Swift serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity among artists, particularly in empowering those whose voices are underrepresented.
In an industry known for its competitive nature, the connection formed between Rexha and Swift underscores the impact that acts of kindness and support can have on individuals striving to navigate their careers. As both artists continue to advocate for inclusivity and representation, their messages resonate widely, encouraging others to embrace their individuality and confidence.