The just-ended 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), held on May 10, 2025, has sparked massive discussion among entertainment lovers in Ghana and beyond.
While the main event showcased performances and award wins, one focal point remains the red carpet; a space traditionally known for glitz, glamour, and high fashion.
Hosted at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre, this year’s TGMAs drew guests from all walks of life.
However, in an attempt to restore order and prestige to the red carpet, organisers Charterhouse implemented a strictly by-invitation policy, aiming to reduce crowding and improve the quality of appearances.
This move came after heavy criticism in recent years, especially in 2024, when many felt the red carpet had become overcrowded with influencers and non-industry personalities.
So, with this new policy in place, did the red carpet live up to expectations in 2025?
‘It was a big flop’ – Fashion critic Charlie Dior
In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb’s Joseph Henry Mensah, fashion critic Charlie Dior didn’t mince words. According to him, despite the exclusive approach, the fashion on display was underwhelming.
“When I heard the TGMA red carpet would be strictly by invitation, I was happy. I felt someone had finally listened because in past years it’s been chaotic, you didn’t need to be there to know it was a mess,” he said.
He went on to compare the event unfavourably to international standards, stating:
“Comparing the TGMA red carpet to New York Fashion Week, which I’ve attended, is like comparing Makola to Manhattan. It was a big flop, they just weren’t willing to invest. I’d rather spend the day at Makola, at least you’d get something to drink there. I’d rate it 1 out of 10.”
Charlie Dior also attributed the poor fashion choices to a lack of incentive:
“There’s no motivation for these celebrities to spend money on their looks. Charterhouse should consider offering a prize for ‘Best Dressed’ to encourage more effort and creativity.”
“Where was the change we were promised?” – Nana Romeo
Media personality and entertainment pundit Nana Romeo echoed similar sentiments.
Speaking to GhanaWeb, he criticised the overall execution of the red carpet, stating that the strictly by-invitation promise failed to deliver on its intended impact.
“They moved the red carpet to a separate hall this year, so I expected something better. But when I got there, it was as crowded as ever, with bloggers and people dressed casually. I didn’t see the elegance or spectacle we were all hoping for,” he said.
On fashion, he added: “Honestly, this year’s red carpet was too ordinary. People were wearing regular suits and kaftans. Where was the wow factor? Where was the promised change? I’d give it a 6 out of 10.”
Meanwhile, despite Charterhouse’s efforts to rebrand and elevate the TGMA red carpet experience, it appears that critics believe more needs to be done, particularly in terms of investment, organisation, and motivation for attendees to bring their fashion A-game.
JHM/EB
Meanwhile, Ghanaian fashion designer Jude Dontoh shares inspiration behind Lauryn Hill’s Met Gala outfit:
