When the MTV Video Music Awards roll around, we usually find ourselves asking the same questions: who will win artist of the year [2]? Who is performing [3]? What over-the-top beauty looks will this year's guests pull out?
We've seen so many amazing hair, makeup, and nail demonstrations at the annual VMAs over the years. Miley Cyrus alone has had more jaw-dropping looks [4] than we can count, and, of course, it's hard to top Doja Cat's infinite wardrobe changes as host of the 2021 show. We'd also be remiss not to at least briefly mention Lady Gaga [5]'s meat dress in 2010 [6]. Good times.
During last year's show, the mullet haircut reigned supreme [7] with everyone from Lil Nas X, Doja Cat, Bretman Rock, and Debby Ryan wearing the look. Olivia Rodrigo was a Y2K vision [8] on stage, and Ashanti turned heads in a floor-length ponytail braid. [9]
This year, minimalist nails [10] were a popular choice among attendees, as well as bold lipstick as seen on Taylor Swift [11], Becky G, and more. Dove Cameron's 3D manicure [12] demanded our attention with its black, silver, and red spikes and roses, and Lizzo looked like emo royalty [13] with a (presumably) faux lip ring.
And that's only just the beginning. The stars are bringing their beauty A-game [14] yet again this year. Ahead, we've rounded up a few of the best beauty moments that you won't want to miss.
Lizzo's Blue Lipstick and Lip Ring
Lizzo [15]'s makeup artist, Alexx Mayo [16], gave the singer a blue-black lip using Charlotte Tilbury products that complemented her dramatic gown and a faux lip ring [17] to top it off. She also wore her hair slicked back for the wet look, which was created by hairstylist Shelby Swain [18] using Matrix and GHD Hair products.
Dove Cameron's Double Braids and 3D Nails
Cameron channelled Wednesday Addams with her long double-braid hairstyle and 3D black and red nails [19] with spikes, roses, and more.
Chlöe's Box-Braid Ponytail and Crystal Nails
Chlöe completely owned the red carpet with her soft makeup, box-braid ponytail, and crystal nails.
Taylor Swift's Crystal Floating Eyeliner
Swift continued the crystals from her dress into her floating eyeliner [20] and topped it off with a bold red lip that we know all too well.
Sabrina Carpenter's Loose Waves and Headband
Sabrina Carpenter arrived on the red carpet wearing one of the biggest hair-accessory trends of the year: a satin black headband by Jennifer Behr. Her hair was styled by Jennifer Yepez [21].
Anitta's Slicked-Back Bob Haircut and Ombré Chrome Nails
Anitta looked amazing on the red carpet with a slicked-back bob haircut and ombré gold-chrome nails.
Chloe Fineman's Chrome Nails
Chloe Fineman matched her chrome nails to her silver outfit for a monochromatic touch.
Bebe Rexha's Ombré Neutral Nails
Bebe Rexha went with a neutral manicure but with a twist by adding white ombré to the tips. Her loose waves were by hairstylist Ursula Stephen [22] using Living Proof products.
J Balvin's Tiger Hair Colour
J Balvin turned heads with his new orange-and-black tiger-print hair colour [23]. He said during his red carpet interview that it took three hours to complete.
Becky G's Bold Red Lip and Copper Eyeshadow
Becky G's makeup artist, Deanna Paley [24], used a combination of Beautyblender and Treslúce Beauty products to create this bold red lip and copper-eyeshadow moment.
Ashley Graham's '90s-Supermodel Nails and Eye Makeup
Ashley Graham's entire look screamed '90s supermodel [25], from her smudged black eye makeup to her minimal manicure.