Introduction to the Glamour of the Emmys 2025

The Emmys have always been a platform where not just talent but style takes the spotlight, and the 2025 edition proved to be no exception. As celebrities graced the iconic red carpet, all eyes weren’t just on who would win the coveted trophies but also on the stunning beauty looks that could set the tone for trends the rest of the year. This year’s Emmys were an explosion of creativity, bold choices, and stunning elegance — an unforgettable spectacle of beauty that was every bit as exciting as the awards themselves.

The 2025 Emmys saw a refreshing mix of classic glam and boundary-pushing experiments. From glowing complexions that looked lit from within to eye-popping shades and daring hairstyles, celebrities used the red carpet as their canvas to showcase beauty artistry at its finest. No two looks were alike, and each makeup and hair moment told a unique story about the wearer’s personal style.

It was a celebration of individuality, a welcome shift from more uniform trends of years past. This year was about owning your beauty and not being afraid to make a statement — whether subtle or bold. Ready to dive into the details? Let’s relive the magic of the night by breaking down the biggest beauty moments from the Emmys 2025.

Trends That Dominated the Red Carpet This Year

Bold Lips Take Center Stage

One thing that immediately stood out at the 2025 Emmys was the rise of unapologetically bold lips. From rich berry tones to vibrant fiery reds, this was not the night for nude glosses or muted mattes. Celebrities embraced statement-making colors that commanded attention.

Take, for instance, Janelle Monáe, who rocked a vivid plum lip that perfectly contrasted her shimmering silver gown. Similarly, Quinta Brunson sported a daring scarlet red lipstick paired with an otherwise minimalistic makeup look — allowing her lips to do all the talking.

Bold lips were often paired with simple, clean complexions, letting the drama focus squarely on the mouth. It was a masterclass in balance: dramatic yet not overwhelming. To pull off a similar look, the key is all about precise application and hydration; a good lip scrub, liner, and a highly pigmented lipstick are musts.

What’s more, the bold lip trend was inclusive of all skin tones and face shapes, showing that anyone can rock a powerful pout when done thoughtfully. This resurgence of strong lip colors signals a broader move in the beauty world towards maximalist self-expression — a refreshing counter to the minimalist “clean girl” era.

Dewy, Glowing Skin Phenomenon

Another trend that absolutely ruled the red carpet was the obsession with radiant, almost mirror-like glowing skin. Forget heavy foundation and powder — 2025’s beauty stars wanted their natural skin texture to shine through with a luminous, healthy finish.

Zendaya led the charge, her complexion seemingly lit from within, thanks to meticulous skincare and expertly applied highlighting products. She wasn’t alone. Stars like Anya Taylor-Joy and Florence Pugh also leaned into hyper-dewy looks that emphasized hydration over coverage.

This trend wasn’t just about applying a highlighter on cheekbones — it started from within. Skincare took center stage, with emphasis on serums rich in hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and nourishing oils. Strategic use of cream-based products — bronzers, blushes, and even eyeshadows — helped maintain that glossy, youthful glow.

Dewy skin works for virtually everyone when customized correctly. Those with oilier complexions can achieve it by focusing glow on specific points (think tops of cheeks, bridge of the nose) rather than going full-face. The message? Healthy skin is always in, and it’s time to invest in that glow!

Retro-Inspired Hairstyles Making a Comeback

The Emmys 2025 weren’t just a feast for makeup lovers; hair stylists had a field day too. One of the biggest takeaways? A major throwback to vintage styles — with a modern twist.

We saw glamorous finger waves reminiscent of the Roaring ’20s on stars like Lily Collins. Meanwhile, vintage Hollywood glam waves made a strong reappearance, particularly on Margot Robbie, who oozed classic silver-screen sophistication.

However, it wasn’t just about copying old-school looks; stylists modernized them with textured finishes, unexpected partings, or playful accessories. Think sleek side parts combined with fluffy waves, or intricate pin curls matched with edgy, minimalist gowns.

Even male celebrities got into the retro act. Hair combed back with soft volume (hello, Pedro Pascal!) gave off serious “Golden Age of Hollywood” vibes but without looking dated.

This return to retro wasn’t about nostalgia alone — it symbolized a merging of timelessness with individuality. Modern retro styles allow personal flair to seep through while still tipping a hat to classic beauty ideals.

The Most Show-Stopping Makeup Moments

Statement Eyes: Glitter, Color, and Drama

Eyes were the stars of the show at the Emmys 2025, with more drama than a primetime TV finale. Celebs didn’t hold back — sparkling lids, graphic liners, and jewel-toned shadows were everywhere. The era of safe, nude eye palettes? Officially over, at least for now.

Florence Pugh stunned with emerald green eyeshadow that brought out the color of her hazel eyes and matched perfectly with her forest-toned dress. Similarly, Hunter Schafer took a celestial route, with silvery-blue shimmer shadow swept across her lids and lower lash line, creating an ethereal, fairy-core aesthetic.

One standout moment? Ayo Edebiri’s electric lavender shadow, lined with a sharp white graphic liner that lifted her eyes and added a futuristic edge. These looks weren’t just about being pretty—they were about pushing boundaries.

Glitter also made a comeback, with some stars using it as a high-impact liner and others going full-glam with glitter-packed lids. If you’re inspired to recreate these eye looks, remember: good blending brushes, primer, and a touch of creativity go a long way. Don’t be afraid to let your eyes speak volumes.

Natural and Fresh-Faced Beauty Trends

While some went bold, others chose simplicity — but not in a boring way. The fresh-faced, minimal-makeup look had its own big moment, exuding elegance and effortlessness. Think soft brows, rosy cheeks, and a subtle flush of color on the lips.

Millie Bobby Brown exemplified this look, embracing her natural features with light foundation, a soft pink blush, and clear gloss. The focus was on enhancing rather than masking, proving that less truly can be more.

What made this minimalist trend pop was its emphasis on skin texture and authentic beauty. Freckles weren’t hidden; they were celebrated. Under-eye circles weren’t caked over; they were diffused. It was raw, real, and incredibly refreshing.

Behind these glowing complexions? A combination of skincare-first routines and lightweight, hydrating makeup formulas. Celebrities relied on tinted moisturizers, cream blushes, and skin-loving products to give that barely-there look — while still appearing red carpet ready.

High-Definition Contouring Techniques

If there was one thing that set the Emmys 2025 makeup apart from your average glam, it was the meticulous, camera-ready contouring. Forget harsh, muddy lines — this year’s contouring was refined, natural, and sculpted with precision.

High-definition contouring is all about subtle definition. Take Bella Ramsey’s look — her cheekbones were snatched, but the finish was so smooth it looked like a natural shadow. The secret? Layering cream and powder products in thin layers, then blending like a pro.

Another standout was Emma Corrin, whose angular features were softly enhanced with taupe-based contours, giving her face dimension without looking heavy. This was not Instagram contouring — this was red carpet contouring, tailored to perfection.

Experts use light and shadow to frame the face based on lighting conditions and camera angles. That’s why the stars looked as good in candid shots as they did on live television. Want to try it at home? Focus on your bone structure, use a damp sponge for blending, and avoid orange-toned bronzers at all costs.

Hair Moments That Stole the Show

Sleek and Polished Updos

Updos ruled the Emmys 2025 red carpet, offering a sense of timeless elegance. From high ballerina buns to twisted chignons, sleek hair was the perfect complement to dramatic gowns and bold beauty looks.

Zendaya once again led the way with a sculptural bun that sat perfectly at the crown of her head — not a hair out of place. The clean finish was offset by a delicate curl at the nape of her neck, adding softness and femininity to an otherwise bold hairstyle.

Aubrey Plaza, on the other hand, went for a side-parted low chignon, pinned so seamlessly it seemed like an extension of her dress. The secret behind these flawless updos? Prepping the hair with smoothing serums, flat ironing for precision, and finishing off with mega-hold sprays.

These styles weren’t just about aesthetics — they also offered practicality, keeping hair off the face and neck, ideal for long award ceremonies under hot stage lights. It’s a trend we’ll be seeing on brides, prom queens, and partygoers all year long.

Effortless Waves and Loose Curls

Not all celebs opted for the updo route. Loose, tousled waves and romantic curls were another red carpet favorite — and they proved that sometimes effortless beauty makes the biggest impact.

Sydney Sweeney showcased perfect beachy waves, tucked slightly behind one ear to show off her diamond earrings. It was classic Hollywood meets California cool. Similarly, Jenna Ortega went with soft, side-swept curls, offering a playful and youthful contrast to her black gothic gown.

The appeal of waves and curls lies in their versatility — they can be polished or undone, voluminous or sleek. Tools like wide-barrel curling irons, salt sprays, and texture-enhancing products made these looks shine. And the best part? They hold up beautifully throughout the night.

This look continues to remain a staple for a reason. It’s easy, it’s pretty, and it works on nearly every hair length and texture.

Accessorized Hairstyles: Pearls, Clips, and More

The hair accessories at the 2025 Emmys were next-level. We’re talking statement clips, pearl accents, bejeweled headbands — every accessory imaginable turned ordinary hairstyles into masterpieces.

Margaret Qualley wore a pearl-adorned crown braid that looked like something out of a fairytale. Meanwhile, Keke Palmer incorporated gemstone pins into her ponytail, making a simple look feel editorial and futuristic.

Accessories weren’t just for the ladies either. Several male celebrities joined the trend with subtle silver clips, bandanas, or even glitter-laced parts. It was all about adding that extra element of flair that caught the flash of every camera.

Hair stylists got creative, using accessories not just for aesthetics but also functionality — hiding pins, taming flyaways, or adding structure. The Emmys proved that a good accessory can elevate any style, no matter how simple.

Best Beauty Looks by Celebrity

Zendaya’s Iconic Red Carpet Transformation

When Zendaya steps onto a red carpet, it’s not just an appearance — it’s an event. The Emmys 2025 was no different, as she served a jaw-dropping beauty look that instantly went viral. Zendaya’s artistry lies in her ability to transform while still staying true to herself.

For this year’s Emmys, she channeled an Old Hollywood starlet, complete with a deep side-parted updo, dramatic winged eyeliner, and a rich, wine-colored lip. Her skin radiated a soft-focus glow, almost as if she had stepped out of a dream. Every element of her look was carefully curated, yet it felt effortless and genuine.

Her longtime makeup artist, Sheika Daley, revealed that the key to Zendaya’s flawless look was skincare prep — focusing on hydration and radiance before even touching any color cosmetics. Layers of illuminating primers, feather-light foundation, and strategic highlighter application created that now-iconic lit-from-within effect.

Zendaya’s look wasn’t just about beauty; it was about storytelling. She embodied sophistication, power, and grace, showing why she remains the ultimate muse for beauty enthusiasts everywhere.

Sydney Sweeney’s Ethereal Glow

Sydney Sweeney, known for her roles in intense dramas, took a softer approach to the red carpet — and the results were nothing short of breathtaking. She opted for a fairy-like ethereal beauty look that emphasized youthfulness, lightness, and freshness.

Her makeup focused on soft, peachy tones — think delicate blush, shimmering eyelids, and glossy nude lips. The real star of her look, however, was her radiant complexion. Her skin looked almost translucent, thanks to a blend of dewy-finish foundations, highlighters, and a mist of setting spray that kept everything luminous without appearing greasy.

Sydney’s hair, styled into cascading soft waves, added to the romantic vibe. A few strategically placed face-framing tendrils gave her a “just fell out of a fairytale” look that felt timeless yet modern.

The takeaway from Sydney’s beauty moment? Less can be infinitely more when executed with precision and passion. She proved that ethereal glam is here to stay — and it’s all about letting your natural beauty shine through.

Timothée Chalamet’s Effortless Grooming

Beauty at the Emmys 2025 wasn’t just a ladies’ game — the gents showed up strong, too, with Timothée Chalamet leading the way. Known for his effortless cool, Timothée leaned into his strengths with subtle, polished grooming that still felt inherently him.

His hair, tousled yet perfectly placed, looked casual but undoubtedly took expert hands to achieve. The art of looking effortless, after all, is no small feat. His skin was healthy, matte in the right places, and glowy where it counted — particularly along the high points of his face like cheekbones and temples.

A light touch of tinted moisturizer, subtle brow grooming, and just a whisper of lip balm completed his look. It’s this attention to detail that sets Timothée apart. He embraces male grooming without overdoing it, making it look as natural as breathing.

Chalamet’s red carpet grooming sends a clear message: Self-care and refinement are not just for one gender. And judging by the response, the world is more than ready for this new era of understated male beauty.

Emerging Beauty Trends Spotted at Emmys 2025

Chrome and Metallic Makeup Accents

One unexpected — and thrilling — trend from the Emmys 2025? Chrome and metallic finishes on everything from eyelids to cheekbones. Stars embraced high-shine makeup like never before, adding futuristic flair to classic beauty.

Doja Cat wowed with her holographic lavender eye makeup, catching the light with every movement. Meanwhile, Gigi Hadid went full space-age chic with a silver chrome eyeliner that curved into a double-wing, elevating her otherwise minimalist look.

The key to nailing this trend is restraint. One metallic element — whether it’s a foil-finished lid or a pop of chrome in the inner corners — was enough to make a statement without overwhelming the face.

As we head deeper into 2025, expect to see chrome not just at award shows but also at parties, fashion weeks, and even day-to-day wear. It’s bold, it’s playful, and it’s undeniably mesmerizing.

Bold Brow Statements

Brows had a big moment at the Emmys, and not in the “Instagram brow” way. Celebs embraced natural, full, bushy brows that framed their faces and added character.

Florence Pugh, for instance, rocked thick, brushed-up brows that gave her an effortlessly cool edge. Meanwhile, Laverne Cox leaned into a perfectly arched brow that enhanced her sharp, regal features.

Products like brow gels, waxes, and even semi-permanent tinting played crucial roles. The goal? Brows that looked lived-in and authentic rather than overly sculpted.

This trend underscores a larger movement towards personalization in beauty — embracing your unique features instead of conforming to a one-size-fits-all standard. And we are here for it.

Pastel Hair Colors Breaking Boundaries

Hair color got playful this year, with several stars ditching natural tones for whimsical pastels. From soft lavenders to muted pinks, pastel hair colors made a strong — and beautiful — statement at the Emmys.

Billie Eilish, always a beauty trailblazer, sported a dusty rose hue that complemented her punk-chic outfit perfectly. Meanwhile, Barbie Ferreira debuted a cotton candy blue bob that looked simultaneously edgy and soft.

Pastel colors signify a shift towards individuality and artistic expression. They’re not just for festival season anymore — they’re red carpet ready. With semi-permanent dyes becoming more accessible and hair care products tailored to protect colored hair, this trend is one anyone can try (even if temporarily).

Beauty Secrets Revealed: Products Behind the Looks

Celebrity Makeup Artists Spill the Details

It wouldn’t be a red carpet without insider secrets spilling after the event! Top celebrity makeup artists were quick to share the hero products behind the biggest looks of the night.

For Zendaya’s dewy glow, products like the Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation and Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Highlighter Balm Duo were name-dropped. For Sydney Sweeney’s ethereal glam, the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Multi-Glow and Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush were key players.

Celebrity artists emphasized layering techniques, skin prep (think hydrating serums like Augustinus Bader The Serum), and setting everything with light mists instead of heavy powders.

The takeaway? Great makeup starts with great skin. And a little luxury product never hurts.

Must-Have Skincare Essentials from the Red Carpet

Before the glitz, before the glam — skincare took center stage. Behind every flawless complexion was a disciplined skincare routine packed with A-list-approved products.

Some backstage favorites included:

Augustinus Bader The Cream
La Mer Crème de la Mer Moisturizer
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum
Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist

These hydrating, radiance-boosting formulas ensured that makeup could be applied seamlessly and held up through hours of flashing cameras and acceptance speeches.

Glowing skin starts far before makeup application — a fact that the Emmys 2025 drove home again and again.

Conclusion: Celebrating Beauty and Artistry at the Emmys

The Emmys 2025 wasn’t just a celebration of television’s finest talents — it was a full-blown beauty spectacle that showcased creativity, individuality, and the art of self-expression. From breathtaking bold lips and dewy, glowing skin to retro hairstyles with modern flair, the night proved that beauty is not about following rules — it’s about breaking them confidently.

What made this year’s beauty looks so refreshing was the clear embrace of authenticity. Celebrities leaned into their unique features and personalities rather than conforming to cookie-cutter ideals. It was about glowing skin, bold brows, playful hair colors, and daring eyes — all stitched together by fearless creativity and skilled artistry.

We witnessed icons like Zendaya redefine timeless glam, saw Sydney Sweeney embody the ethereal dream girl, and cheered Timothée Chalamet as he championed refined yet understated grooming for men. These moments aren’t just fleeting trends — they signal a broader shift in the beauty industry towards inclusivity, innovation, and storytelling.

As we take inspiration from the red carpet to our own lives, remember this: Beauty isn’t about perfection. It’s about finding the look that makes you feel powerful, unique, and unapologetically yourself.

Here’s to more bold choices, glowing complexions, and fearless self-expression — on and off the red carpet!

FAQs

What makeup brand dominated the Emmys 2025?

Lancôme and Pat McGrath Labs were two of the biggest winners at the Emmys 2025, with many celebrities using their products for that flawless red carpet glow. Charlotte Tilbury and Rare Beauty also made strong showings, thanks to their skin-enhancing formulas and high-pigment color products.

Which celebrity had the most talked-about beauty look?

Zendaya’s glamorous Old Hollywood look stole the night. Her sculpted updo, flawless skin, and dramatic eyeliner created an iconic moment that was instantly celebrated across social media and fashion magazines.

How can I recreate a red carpet beauty look at home?

Start with a strong skincare routine to achieve that lit-from-within glow. Use a dewy foundation, subtle contouring, and either a bold lip or statement eye — not both. Finish with a light setting mist and choose a hairstyle that complements your face shape. Most importantly, tailor the look to your personal style!

What are the top beauty trends to try after the Emmys?

Bold lips, chrome eye accents, pastel hair colors, natural fluffy brows, and glowing, dewy skin are the top beauty trends you should definitely try post-Emmys 2025. Don’t be afraid to mix and match trends to create your own unique style.

Are there affordable alternatives to the beauty products used at the Emmys?

Absolutely! Brands like NYX, e.l.f. Cosmetics, ColourPop, and Milani offer affordable dupes for many high-end products seen at the Emmys. With the right techniques, you can recreate celebrity beauty looks without breaking the bank.

Emmys 2025: The Best Beauty Looks From the Red Carpet