Sarah Jessica Parker, 2000: The Power of Personality
At the height of "Sex and the City" mania, Sarah Jessica Parker could have opted for any polished, of-the-moment style. Instead, for the 2000 Emmys, she leaned into her own persona, pairing a famous feathered Oscar de la Renta dress with her signature,
unapologetic curls. At a time when super-sleek, flat-ironed hair was the dominant trend, her embrace of natural texture was a statement. It was a lesson in authenticity, proving that the most powerful beauty look is often the one that feels most like you. The relaxed waves and simple, glowing makeup were pure Carrie Bradshaw, but more importantly, they were pure SJP.
Halle Berry, 2000: The Statement Pixie
Long before she made Oscars history with a pixie cut in 2002, Halle Berry was already demonstrating the power of short hair on the red carpet. At the 2000 Emmys, her perfectly piecey, spiky pixie was the epitome of cool confidence. The style directed all attention to her flawless features, proving that a dramatic haircut can be the most impactful accessory of all. In a sea of elaborate updos and flowing locks, Berry’s look was a masterclass in minimalism and attitude. It underscored a timeless truth: a great cut that highlights your bone structure and personal style will always outshine passing trends.
Jennifer Aniston, 2004: The Art of the Sun-Kissed Glow
No one has ever defined the California-cool aesthetic quite like Jennifer Aniston. At the 2004 Emmy Awards, she was the picture of effortless glamour in a vintage Chanel gown, complemented by what would become her trademark beauty look: loose, beachy waves and a bronzed, sun-kissed glow. Her makeup was minimal—just a touch of gloss and mascara—letting her radiant skin do the talking. This wasn't about heavy contouring or dramatic color; it was about perfecting a look of health, warmth, and laid-back sophistication that remains a go-to for women everywhere. It’s a study in how 'less is more' can be the most impactful statement of all.
Tracee Ellis Ross, 2021: Celebrating Natural Hair Artistry
Tracee Ellis Ross has long used the red carpet as a platform to celebrate the beauty and versatility of Black hair. While she has served countless iconic hair moments, her free-flowing, voluminous natural curls at the 2021 Emmys were a particularly powerful statement. In an environment that often defaults to straightened, more conventional styles, Ross’s embrace of her glorious natural texture was a joyful and deliberate choice. It was a tribute to her mother, Diana Ross, and a lesson for everyone that glamorous, event-worthy hair comes in all forms. Through her own brand and her public appearances, Ross continues to champion authentic hair expression.
Zendaya, 2019: Old Hollywood, Modern Rules
Zendaya is a modern fashion icon, known for her ability to expertly reference the past while making it feel entirely new. At the 2019 Emmys, she channeled Old Hollywood glamour with a custom Vera Wang gown and a striking beauty look to match. She sported deep, side-parted waves reminiscent of Veronica Lake, but her jewel-toned makeup—a perfect match for her emerald dress—kept the look from feeling like a costume. The rich color palette and flawless execution demonstrated how to pay homage to a classic era without being trapped by it. It was a lesson in balancing vintage inspiration with contemporary edge.
Michaela Coel, 2021: The Boldness of Simplicity
When Michaela Coel made history at the 2021 Emmys as the first Black woman to win for writing a limited series, her beauty look was as powerful as her speech. Wearing a striking chartreuse Christopher John Rogers two-piece, Coel paired the bold color with a simple, clean buzzcut. The minimalist hairstyle was a statement of pure confidence, focusing all attention on her face, her groundbreaking work, and the significance of the moment. It was a study in the power of stripping everything back, proving that sometimes the most audacious beauty choice is the one that is the most daringly simple.
