Culture’s biggest night delivered exactly what we’d hoped for. Black excellence, unforgettable fashion and beauty moments that deserve their own standing ovation.
Hosted at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, the 2026 BET Awards proved once again that the red carpet is just as exciting as the performances themselves. While the fashion certainly had its moment, the beauty looks quietly stole plenty of scenes. From sculpted complexions to nostalgic hairstyles, this year’s glamour leaned into individuality while celebrating trends that continue to dominate our mood boards.
Blush blindness, feather-fine micro brows and fresh, skin-like finishes were among the makeup trends taking centre stage. Hair told its own story, with ’90s-inspired volume, textured updos, sleek pixie cuts and romantic curls proving that versatility remains the ultimate beauty flex.
Ahead, we round up the hair and makeup looks that had us reaching for the screenshot button.
Olandria
Fresh off becoming one of reality television’s most talked about stars, Olandria embraced the “your skin but better” aesthetic. Her softly sculpted complexion, subtle definition and glossy nude lip enhanced rather than overshadowed her natural features. Loose, cascading curls framed her face beautifully and complemented her sunshine-yellow gown, creating a look that felt effortless, romantic and undeniably camera ready.
Lizzo
Lizzo reminded us that blonde curls and glowing skin are a match made in beauty heaven. The Grammy Award-winning artist paired sandy blonde ringlets with softly toned brows, proving once again that eyebrow colour can completely transform a look. Her latte-inspired makeup palette featured warm bronzed tones, softly diffused eyes and a high-shine nude lip that tied everything together. It was polished without trying too hard.
Keke Palmer
If there were any doubts that micro brows are making a comeback, Keke Palmer settled them. The actress and musician paired the divisive trend with softly smoked liner, a subtle cat eye and a muted rosy lip. Her ginger box braids added warmth and dimension, striking the perfect balance between nostalgic beauty references and modern glamour. Consider us officially influenced.
JaNa Craig
Few hairstyles say “summer” quite like the wet look, and JaNa Craig wore it to perfection. Her sleek, slicked-back finish looked glossy rather than greasy, allowing her flawless complexion to take centre stage. A precisely executed winged liner added definition, while understated neutral makeup kept the overall look clean, fresh and sophisticated. Sometimes less really is more.
Doechii
Doechii continues to make a compelling case for blush as the main character. Her signature flushed cheeks brought life and warmth to a bronzed complexion, while softly blended earthy tones across the eyes created seamless harmony. The “Anxiety” hitmaker completed the look with boho braids gathered into a perfectly imperfect ’90s-inspired messy bun. We will never complain about seeing beautifully styled braids on a red carpet.
Chlöe
There are beauty looks, and then there are beauty moments. Chlöe delivered the latter.
Channeling unmistakable ’60s glamour, the singer stepped onto the carpet wearing a voluminous bouffant bob that balanced retro inspiration with contemporary styling. Her makeup embraced maximalism in the best possible way. Bold blush placement, luminous skin and sparkling shimmer across the lids created a look that was playful, glamorous and impossible to ignore. If blush blindness is still having a moment, Chlöe is undoubtedly leading the movement.