The 2024 Emmys might have been a little less showy than usual, but that didn’t stop some celebs from bringing their A-game to the red carpet. While it felt like a few stars weren’t trying as hard as in years past (don’t get me started on the no-makeup makeup trend catching everyone), there were still some standout beauty looks that made me swoon. From nude glossy lips to perfectly styled waves, these were the looks we couldn’t stop talking about.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez was nominated for Only Murders in the Building, so naturally, expectations were high and she did not disappoint. Her super long, middle-parted “glass hair” was a sleek masterpiece. And let’s talk about those flipped-up ends. Whoever said those were only for lobs and bobs? Clearly, they hadn’t met Selena, because she made them look so chic on her long, luscious mane. It was polished but playful, 10/10 would steal this look in a heartbeat.
Quinta Brunson
Quinta Brunson brought us Abbott Elementary, and now she’s schooling us in vintage glam! Her look was a modern take on Hollywood glam, with a sultry twist. Those smoky eyes were perfection. And the hair was in slick curls that looked straight out of a retro movie poster. Quinta knows how to blend old-school glamour with a contemporary flair, and honestly, we’re taking notes.
Greta Lee
Greta Lee opted for a look that was as effortless as her flowing Loewe gown. The bold brows and light eyeliner were on point with a glossy lip and gently flushed cheeks that were the perfect finishing touches to her fresh-faced look. Greta gave us beauty minimalism done right, she didn’t need to pile on the makeup to shine.
Nicola Coughlan
Leave it to Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan to remind us that monochrome makeup is always a win. She paired her dramatic, sequined gown with soft, tawny-toned blush, lipstick, and eye makeup—all in the same warm palette—and the result was nothing short of stunning. It’s as if she stepped out of a dream, matching her radiant gown with a glowing, cohesive makeup look.
Ayo Edebiri
Ayo Edebiri’s brushed-out ‘70s mermaid waves were seriously swoon-worthy. Flowing, voluminous locks with just the right amount of texture and movement. They are perfect for a day at the beach or for when you’re on vacation. We’re adding this to our beauty vision boards ASAP.
Sofia Vergara
Sofia Vergara, as always, gave us ‘that’ Hollywood glamour. With those impossibly glossy, bouncy waves cascading down her shoulders, a fierce cat-eye that could cut glass, and a hazy rose lip that added just the right touch of romance, Sofia looked stunning. We couldn’t decide which we loved more—the hair, the makeup, or just her whole vibe.
Ella Purnell
Ella Purnell, star of Yellowjackets, channelled her character’s ‘90s roots with a grunge-inspired beauty look—and we’re here for it. Her dark, vampy lipstick paired with equally moody nails screamed fall, but in the best way possible. She balanced that edgy darkness with voluminous, middle-parted waves. Ella was the cool-girl epitome of Y2K meets fall goth, and we loved every second.
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon brought the ‘less is more’ look to the 2024 Emmys, reminding us all that sometimes simple is best. Her hair was styled in a chic, do-it-yourself chignon, which gave her a graceful look. What really caught our eye, was her makeup, a warm flush that gave her cheeks the perfect natural glow, and a neutral lip to match the blush. Reese looked polished and fresh, and she didn’t even have to try(though we know she did, and she nailed it).
Sure, some celebs played it safe, but those who tried, absolutely slayed. With the rise of minimalism in beauty, red carpet trends have leaned heavily into barely-there makeup and subtle glam. While there’s a certain charm to the “less is more” vibe, it’s starting to feel like the fun, daring looks are missing in action. Here’s hoping future events bring back the bold and creative looks we all live for!
Image Credits – Getty Images
