Prominent musicians flocked to Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center Wednesday (Oct. 12) evening to celebrate CMT's 2022 Artists of The Year. A-listers and Nashville newcomers stepped on the black (instead of red) carpet dressed to the nines to honor Kane Brown, Cody Johnson, Luke Combs, Walker Hayes, Carly Pearce, Lainey Wilson, and Artist of a Lifetime recipient Alan Jackson.

Hitmakers are typically photographed in concert attire, often encrusted with rhinestones or fringe. This time around, notable names slipped on formal attire and one-of-a-kind designs to make a statement.

As country crooners strike a pose for the flashing cameras in custom-tailored suits, female powerhouses stunned in breathtaking gowns or western-inspired sets in confidence and with undeniable elegance.

While fan-favorite vocalists such as Chris Stapleton, Dustin Lynch, Kelsea Ballerini, and more mingled among Nashville's elite before the prestigious affair, "Yellowstone" star Kelsey Asbille brought her Hollywood flair to the honky tonk town in a head-turning look.

Keep scrolling to see which celebrities showed up and showed out. For more information, visit CMT.com or follow @CMT on social media. Use the hashtag #CMTAOTY for live updates. The 2022 CMT Artists of The Year event will debut 9p/8c Friday, October 14, on CMT.

Carly Pearce

CMT Artists of The Year honoree Carly Pearce stepped down the grand staircase at Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center wearing a preppy purple cocktail dress. Although winter is right around the corner, Pearce served a vibrant high-neck look that will have fashion gurus craving summer again. The pussycat bow and old-world floral accents turn the number into a timeless look that the late Loretta Lynn would even approve of.

Kane and Katelyn Brown

On the heels of their first collaboration "Thank God," Kane Brown and Katelyn took the carpet hand in hand, wearing earthy tones reflecting their recent music video shot in Hawaii. Although Brown is the man of the hour, the country couple also celebrated their anniversary.

Lainey Wilson

Lainey Wilson won't be receiving any "Dirty Looks" tonight. The CMT Breakout Artist of The Year brought her signature look to the star-studded affair. Before taking the limelight to perform "Heart Like A Truck" from her highly anticipated album, the Louisiana native sported denim bellbottoms with an electric blue blouse. Although, it was her southern-style fringe shawl that elevated the ensemble and scored her a spot on our hot carpet roundup.

Walker Hayes

CMT Artists of the Year honoree Walker Hayes and his wife Laney are having the ultimate date night. The parents of six escaped their busy household and headed downtown for Walker's big night. Laney wore a silver gown that shined brighter than her beaming smile. Meanwhile, the country crooner sported a laid-back look with a velour bomber jacket.

Cody Johnson

You can take the boy out of Texas, but you can’t take Texas out of the boy. Everything is bigger in Texas…and Cody Johnson proved that true with his signature cowboy hat. The rodeo rider turned country hitmaker sported dark-washed blue jeans and a blazer, with his first lady Brandi on his arm.

Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini never fails to bring sunshine to any room. The powerhouse wore a beautiful yellow gown resembling her buzz-worthy cover art for “Subject To Change,” the 15-song collection released in late September. Her blonde locks and natural makeup created a mermaid-like look destined to turn heads.

Chapel Hart

On the heels of their Grand Ole Opry debut and successful run on "America's Got Talent," Chapel Hart brought their happy-go-lucky energy to the CMT Artists of The Year ceremony. The family trio comprised of Trea Swindle, Danica, and Devlyn Hart, matched in stunning white outfits that embody their individuality and personalities. As Danica Hart wowed in a delicate lace dress that resembled a western angel, her sister Devlyn slayed in a diamond-encrusted jumpsuit and platform pumps.

Jessie James Decker

Kittenish founder and breakout star Jessie James Decker and husband, former NFL player, Eric Decker shared a quick smooch before heading into CMT Artists of The Year. The current "Dancing With The Stars" contestant displayed her rock-solid legs in a hot pink dress, that matched perfectly with her eye-catching heels. Decker's black clutch complimented Decker's stylish blazer and polished dress shoes.

Lily Rose

TikTok sensation turned country music mainstay Lily Rose made waves in a chic power suit. The LGBTQ+ trailblazer rocked a black fitted blazer and slacks. However, she elevated the luxury look with a solid gold chain that complements her neutral-colored snake-skin cowgirl boots. The "Whatcha Know About That" singer stood tall with confidence and displayed her undeniable country swag.

Jenna Paulette

Jenna Paulette, best known for her work on the big screen and witty wordplay, can now add fashionista to her diverse resume. Paulette never fails to pay homage to her country roots, as her cream-colored jumpsuit is beautifully embroidered with green cacti, and her cowgirl hat is larger than her home state of Texas. The fast-rising star completed the get-up with rhinestone hair accessories secured tightly in her ponytail braids.

Laci Kaye Booth

CMT Next Women of Country member Laci Kaye Booth left a significant mark on the black carpet, thanks to her grandmother. Just days before attending CMT Artists of The Year, the breakout star thrifted the formal gown. Booth told CMT that the ensemble initially didn’t fit, but her grandma placed her tailoring skills to the test and reconstructed the outfit. She turned the dress into a two-piece and redesigned the top into a lace-up corset. Booth walked her very first carpet feeling beautiful in her own skin.

Julia Cole

Promising new artist Julia Cole and CMT Next Women of Country member wowed in a black velvet dress. The one-shoulder gown holds sentimental value, as it was custom-made to include one of her late Poppy's western-inspired button-downs. Cole paid homage to her country-loving grandfather at her Grand Ole Opry debut in early June. Before stepping into the sacred circle, she stitched together several old shirts to create a formal look to have him with her on the special evening.