While it might not as have the same type of glitz and glamour as the Grammys or Oscars, it would be a huge mistake to sleep on the Billboard Music Awards — especially when it comes to the potential for cutting-edge hair and makeup. Hosted by Nick Jonas on May 23, this live event had no shortage of much-loved celebrities (including, but not limited to, Dua Lipa, Megan Thee Stallion, Ariana Grande, and BTS, to name just a few).
Below, some of the best hair and makeup looks from the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, featuring graphic eyeliner, pristine braids, and perfectly groomed eyebrows.
H.E.R. is an instant classic, just like the bright red lipstick and side-slicked hair she's wearing to the Billboard Music Awards. But more than anything, it's the eyebrows for us — even from far away you can tell that each hair is right in its place (we're going to need the details on her brow gel situation right away.)
There are so many cool things happening in Doja Cat's look that it's hard to pinpoint just one thing at a time — the pop of bright turquoise to match her accessories, the pin-straight eyebrows, the baby hairs sculpted to perfection. We're taking note of every single little detail so we can attempt our own version ASAP. Because we know you're curious: that eyeliner is Suva Beauty Hydraliner, applied by makeup artist Ernesto Casillas.
We always know to expect low-key, natural-looking glam from Alicia Keys on any red carpet, and this award ceremony is no exception. This time around, however, the singer paired her signature face with a braided updo and curled tendrils on either side. Hairstylist Kendall Dorsey used Dark & Lovely's Protective Styles Hair Refresher, Hair Hydrator, and Tension Tamer to achieve the look.
There's nothing like a classic black cat-eye, especially when worn by none other than Saweetie. Makeup artist Deanna Paley pulled this big, bold wing off with Pat McGrath Labs Permagel Glide Eye Pencil in Xtreme Black.
Speaking of sparkle, that seems to be the theme of Karol G's entire look, from her fully sequined jumpsuit all the way up to the gem details in her eye makeup. And we'd have to give that head-turning aquamarine hair a shout-out, too.
Gabrielle Union has a long history of dominating every type of hairstyle out there (curls, bobs, blonde – you name it, she looks good in it). This early-2000s-esque flippy updo, however, might top the list of our all-time favorites on her. Her makeup, on the other hand, is completely timeless, thanks to makeup artist Fiona Stiles, who used Giorgio Armani Beauty products. Some of the look's biggest standouts include Eye Tint Liquid Eye Shadow, Smooth Silk Eye Pencil, and Eyes To Kill Mascara.
TikTok star and presenter Dixie D'Amelio also brought her best graphic eyeliner game to the Billboard Music Awards with a gem-encrusted black cat-eye. A high and tight top knot is the perfect pairing.
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Originally published on Allure.com