The MTV Video Music Awards has long been music’s wildest night, a red carpet where artists are encouraged to push the boundaries of style, and this year’s ceremony was no exception. From theatrical hair sculptures to breathtakingly polished makeup, the 2025 VMAs delivered an array of stunning beauty looks that will be talked about for years to come. Celebrities showcased everything from high-volume retro glam to intricate updos and perfectly sculpted skin, proving that artistry in hair and makeup is just as much a part of a performance as the music itself. These standout looks not only set trends but also told a story, capturing the unique personality and creative vision of each artist.
Red Carpet Renaissance: Bold Hair and Sculptural Looks
The 2025 MTV VMA red carpet was a canvas for some of the most innovative hairstyles of the year, with artists embracing both classic elegance and daring, avant-garde designs. A key trend was the return of high-volume hair, with stars like Doja Cat leading the charge. She brought a serious vintage glam aesthetic to the event, sporting supersized, sideswept hair that paid homage to the ’80s. Her voluminous, sculpted hair was perfectly complemented by a classic red lip and a crimson manicure, creating a look that was both nostalgic and fresh. This trend of bold, architectural hair was a major theme of the night, signaling a shift away from more understated styles.
Equally impressive were the intricate updos that showcased the skill of celebrity hairstylists. Lady Gaga, known for her theatricality, continued her spooky-aesthetic streak with a dramatic, flower-adorned updo and black bangs that framed her face. The look was a perfect blend of high fashion and performance art, fitting for the founder of Haus Labs. In another show of polished elegance, Tyla sported a sleek, polished bob with a perfectly placed set of cornrows, a style that was both simple and striking. Her look proved that a refined, well-executed hairstyle can be just as impactful as an elaborate one.
The Allure of Glass Skin and Perfected Pouts
While dramatic hair moments dominated the headlines, the makeup looks of the night were a masterclass in subtlety and sophistication. The trend of “glass skin”—a look of luminous, dewy skin that appears almost translucent—was a major takeaway from the red carpet. Presenter Latto looked effortlessly elegant, with a subtle flush and a perfectly radiant complexion. Her makeup, created by celebrity artist Ashanti Lation, highlighted the beauty of a natural, healthy glow. The emphasis on flawless, dewy skin allowed other features to stand out, such as sculpted lips and bold eye looks.
In a showcase of perfect pouts, Sabrina Carpenter took a bronzier approach to her go-to blonde style, and her sculpted lip look made an impactful beauty statement. The focus was on precise application and a nuanced color palette, creating a look that was both glamorous and wearable. The contrast between understated skin and a carefully crafted lip or eye was a common theme among many artists, demonstrating a new form of red carpet minimalism that is anything but boring.
Masterclass in Glamour and Performance
The beauty looks at the 2025 VMAs were a study in polished ease and artistic expression. Tate McRae, who won an award at the event, embodied this trend perfectly. Her red-carpet-ready makeup was a masterclass in polished ease, with her effortless blonde hair complementing a clean and refined makeup aesthetic. The look proved that a powerful beauty statement doesn’t have to be over the top; it can be confident and effortless.
Beyond just aesthetics, the beauty looks also served as an extension of the artists’ performance and brand. FKA Twigs brought a next-level braided hair look to the red carpet that resembled a set of headphones, a clever and on-the-nose nod to the musical nature of the night. Her look was a perfect example of how an artist can use beauty to tell a story and reinforce their creative identity. Similarly, Ice Spice was “pretty in pink,” with a strawberry-toned and ’90s-inspired updo that perfectly elevated her ensemble. These looks were not just about looking good; they were about creating art.
From Red Carpet to Mainstream Trends
The beauty trends that emerged from the 2025 MTV VMAs are sure to influence the mainstream in the coming months. The focus on high-volume, sculpted hair offers a refreshing alternative to more casual styles, while the emphasis on “glass skin” and precise lip and eye looks will inspire beauty enthusiasts to perfect their own routines. The VMAs proved that when it comes to beauty, the trends are not about conforming, but about celebrating individuality and creative expression. The standout looks from this year’s event were a testament to the fact that hair and makeup are powerful tools for self-expression and artistry.
