Top beauty looks at the MTV VMAs

Megan Thee Stallion @theestallion

Rapper of the moment, Megan Thee Stallion, provided a masterclass in cat’s eye-shaped smokey shadow at the recent MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) in New York.

The shadow, which was very subtly applied, perfectly complemented Megan’s skin tone, while lash extensions completed the look. In an unusual twist, brown lipstick was applied to her top lip only, with the colour lining, but not filling, the lower lid, to create a two-tone effect. Lauren Elise Child was the make-up artist responsible for this fabulously polished look.

Nicki Minaj @nickiminaj

Still on the subject of rappers, the legendary Nicki Minaj rocked one of the most striking looks of the night, sweeping Barbiecore pink eyeshadow that peeped through an intriguing bridal veil of the same hue. Her make-up artist was Ronald Watkins.

Cardi B @iamcardib

Fellow rapper Cardi B’s nude-coloured lips were outlined in brown, and her eyes enhanced with very exaggerated spikey lash extensions of different lengths.

Olivia Rodrigo @oliviarodrigo

Going the opposite route, former Disney star and now A-list singer, Olivia Rodrigo, was a prime example of a more muted make-up palette – with only barely-there extensions on her lashes, and nude eyeshadow and fairly pale lips.

Columbian singer, Karol G’s look was all about strong dark eyebrows and minimal make-up elsewhere.

Demi Lovato @ddlovato

The always popular Demi Lovato went full on rock-chic for her look – super-strong dark brows and shadow, with slicked-back raven locks to match the black leather outfit. Her lips were relatively tame in hue in comparison.

Kelsea Ballerini @kdeenihan

Country pop star Kelsea Ballerini provided the perfect example of the ultimate Calfornia blonde look– with glowing honey-toned skin, bronzed shadow, muted lipstick and beachy blonde hair. Make-up was by Kelsey Deenihan. (Report by Joanna Sterkowicz)