Hair That's An Art Installation
At the VMAs, hair isn't just an accessory; it's often the main event. Think of Gwen Stefani's icy blue space buns in 1998, a look that was pure futuristic pop-punk perfection. Or Lil' Kim's unforgettable purple wig and matching pasty from 1999, a monochromatic
masterpiece that has been referenced for decades. The spirit of hair as sculpture lives on, from Pink’s spiky, hot-pink punk styles in the early 2000s to Nicki Minaj's architectural and multi-colored creations. The VMA red carpet is where artists use their locks to make a statement that's as loud as their music.
Eyes That Make a Statement
A simple cat eye? Too safe for the VMAs. This is the home of dramatic, look-at-me eye makeup. In recent years, stars like Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo have championed bold black liner, from subtle wings to more dramatic swoops. But the history goes deeper. We've seen Gwen Stefani's trademark face jewels accentuating her eyes in the late '90s. In the 2000s, Avril Lavigne made heavy, dark eyeliner her signature skater-girl look. And more recently, artists like Doja Cat have experimented with everything from spidery, crystal-adorned lashes to avant-garde shapes, proving the VMA red carpet is a canvas for optical artistry.
The Rebellious, Moody Lip
While a classic red lip occasionally appears, the VMAs have a long-standing love affair with its moodier cousins. Deep burgundies, rich browns, and even bold blues have all had their moments. In 1998, Rose McGowan paired a barely-there dress with a bold cherry lip that became iconic of the era. In 2022, Lizzo stunned with smoky-blue lipstick and a faux lip ring. The '90s grunge influence is always lurking, with stars often opting for a dark, vampy lip that feels more rock-and-roll than red carpet. It’s a trend that says 'I’m here to be cool, not just pretty.'
A Full-Body Commitment to Shine
Glitter, crystals, and an otherworldly glow are practically a dress code requirement at the VMAs. It started with the Y2K obsession with all things sparkly, like Britney Spears' glittering eyeshadow and liberal use of body jewelry during her 2001 "I'm a Slave 4 U" performance. This trend has only evolved. Taylor Swift took it to another level in 2022, pairing her signature red lip with a dress and crystalline eye makeup that made her look like a walking disco ball. Whether it's shimmering highlighter, face jewels, or head-to-toe body glitter, the goal is to catch the light from every possible angle.
When Less Becomes More
In a sea of maximalism, sometimes the most rebellious statement is a quiet one. The "no-makeup makeup" look has also found a consistent, if surprising, home at the VMAs. In the early 2000s, Jennifer Lopez often paired her statement outfits—like her all-white ensemble with a bedazzled bandana—with relatively neutral makeup, focusing on her signature glow. More recently, Kim Kardashian has appeared with a wet-look hairstyle and dewy, minimal makeup that lets her outfit do the talking. In an environment defined by excess, this stripped-back approach stands out, proving that confidence is the boldest look of all.
