Thanks to some incredible performances (we’re looking at you, Missy Elliott!) and never-before seen over-the-top fashion moments, MTV’s Video Music Awards are currently the talk of the town. Many of music’s brightest stars – and quite a few Hollywood celebs – hit the red carpet in honor of the music industry’s most notorious awards ceremony. And while everyone was certainly dressed to impress, we couldn’t help but notice some pretty stunning beauty looks across the board. 

The VMAs are famous for hosting the most outrageous fashion looks, courtesy of the more daring celebrities in attendance, and this year also included some of the best makeup we’ve seen in a long time. The myriad of fantastical looks were a feast for the senses. We’ve rounded up ten of our favorite beauty looks, from the completely unique and unexpected to new takes on old classics.

Ebonee Davis

Model Ebonee Davis radiated beauty and light at the VMA’s red carpet in a monochromatic green look inspired by vintage Erykah Badu. The pop of green shimmer on her eyelids perfectly complements her radiant, natural-looking skin and subtle berry lips. Her makeup ties her entire aesthetic together and renders her look instantly iconic.

Lizzo

Lizzo’s jaw-droppingly gorgeous red carpet look came courtesy of a Moschino gown and Urban Decay makeup. Her ultra-modern ombre red lip is the perfect juxtaposition to the ever-classic winged eyeliner. Lizzo was also sporting a monochrome style, and she pulled it off perfectly. The only thing that topped her amazing style was her absolutely joyful performance.

Halsey

Halsey’s rainbow hair and complementary makeup stole the show. Makeup artist Denika Bedrossian and hairstylist Florido worked together to make sure that Halsey’s rainbow-colored roots and makeup matched beautifully without overwhelming her natural lovely features. The effect is simply stunning. Natural, yet otherworldly.

Cardi B

In comparison to recent red carpet appearances, Cardi B’s makeup was positively subdued at the VMAs. But that doesn’t mean she didn’t look gorgeous. We love a classically styled Cardi just as much as we love her more avant-garde beauty looks. She kept it cool with a nude lip, soft skin and a timeless smokey eye.

Monica

Monica’s perfect end-of-summer eye makeup stole the show. That flick of dramatic bright blue cat-eye liner and long, fluttery lashes are just begging to be copied by beauty lovers around the world. Her skin was aglow and her lips sported the prettiest peachy-pink shade of lipstick. Makeup artist Eva Kim knocked it out of the park with this look.

Normani

Normani’s  violet shimmery eyeshadow perfectly matched the subtle purple tones on the bust of her sparkly gown. This is matchy-matchy done right. Makeup artist Grace Pae paired the look with a nude lip gloss giving us some serious Aaliyah circa 2001 vibes with the overall sexiness of the styling. 

Queen Latifah

Makeup artist Sam Fine was responsible for Latifah’s timeless look at this year’s VMAs. Radiant and ageless, we love Latifah’s coral lipstick and long lashes. It’s summery, flirty, and timeless. 

James Charles

James Charles attended the VMAs for the very first time this year and did not disappoint. Rocking a look from his very own James Charles x Morphe eyeshadow palette, with silvery purple lids that stood out against his icy hair and clothing. The dusty-rose lipstick contrasts gorgeously with  his bold eye makeup and just might be the perfect addition to everyone’s fall makeup bag. 

Bebe Rexha

No one had a better time at this year’s awards ceremony than Bebe Rexha, and her makeup matched her spirited, fun-loving attitude. She wore a beautiful shade of olive-gold shimmery eyeshadow  – the perfect transition to fall shade. A sweet and subtle pink lip enhanced her features and let the eye makeup be the star of the show.

FKA Twigs

It doesn’t get much cooler than FKA Twigs. Using Pat McGrath products, makeup artist Kabuki transformed this stylish songstress  into an ethereal goddess. With coppery shimmer makeup to match her hair and a boldly lined lip reminiscent of the ‘90s, FKA Twigs looked like an absolute dream.