The VMAs are the ideal opportunity for stylish musicians and hot young actresses to make a standout fashion statement.

But what happens when a star finds herself echoing someone else's sartorial sentiment on the red carpet? As in, wearing the exact same dress? (It's like reliving your worst prom nightmare!)

Well, tonight, we found out. Both Pink and Shakira sparkled in Balmain's studded leather strapless minidress from the designer's Fall 2009 ready-to-wear collection.

The only noticable difference was that Pink paired her frock with black patent pumps, while Shakira went (predictably) the seductress route, opting for over-the-knee boots to complete her look.

Luckily, the two laughed it off when seen together, but we think it may have been a pre-planned publicity stunt to garner extra attention for the two singers (we're writing about it, so job well done). Otherwise, someone at Balmain is going to receive two very angry phone calls tomorrow.

So, who do you think wore it better? Leave a comment below!

And check back for more VMA red carpet coverage!