Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes captured hearts at the 2024 CMA Awards, solidifying their status as one of country music‘s cutest couples. The pair made a stunning entrance at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on November 20, with Ballerini dazzling in a sparkling silver gown by Dolce & Gabbana. The gown featured daring side cutouts that showcased her figure, while the loose-fitting bodice flowed seamlessly into a snug skirt with a short train. She kept her glam understated, letting her long blonde hair cascade freely.
The couple’s chemistry was palpable as they posed for photos on the red carpet, leaning into each other and exchanging affectionate glances that melted hearts. Stokes complemented Ballerini’s glamorous look with a classic black suit, making them one of the evening’s most stylish duos.
Ballerini, who is nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year and Musical Event of the Year for her collaboration “Cowboys Cry Too” with Noah Kahan, was also set to perform at the event alongside other major artists like Jelly Roll, Luke Combs, and Kacey Musgraves. This performance marked an important moment for Ballerini, as it showcased her growth as an artist and her deepening relationship with Stokes.
In a candid moment, Ballerini reflected on her recent onstage wardrobe malfunction during her Heartfirst Tour. While performing “Miss Me More,” she realized the audience was not cheering for her performance but rather alerting her to a wardrobe issue. “I had jeans on… and I was like, ‘Man, people are really yelling this. Things feel extra rowdy tonight!’ And then I realized they were yelling at me to zip my fly,” she shared with a laugh. Despite the mishap, she handled it with grace, saying that she now embraces such moments rather than feeling embarrassed.
The singer also opened up about her latest tattoo—a sunflower on her back—symbolizing personal growth and positivity. “They’re always growing toward the sun. That’s representative of where I’m at in my life right now: growing within myself toward good things,” she explained.
Ballerini’s affinity for sunflowers was evident in her fashion choices, as she previously wore a sunflower-inspired gown at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards alongside Stokes. Their relationship has inspired much of her upcoming album, “Patterns,” which explores themes of love and self-discovery.
As they celebrated their love amidst the glitz and glamour of the CMA Awards, it was clear that Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes are not just a couple but partners navigating their respective careers while supporting each other along the way.
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