At the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, a stunning fusion of Old Hollywood glamour and contemporary K-beauty took center stage, making for a memorable evening in Los Angeles. A-list celebrities, including Selena Gomez and Ryan Destiny, showcased chin-length bobs and striking lips that paid homage to classic styles while embracing a modern twist. The red carpet was alive with contrasting looks, where traditional elegance met the fresh, dewy aesthetics that characterize today’s makeup trends.
Selena Gomez’s striking look was crafted by her makeup artist, Hung Vanngo, who utilized products from the Korean skincare line Dr. Althea to prepare her skin. This emphasis on quality skincare is a hallmark of the K-beauty movement and was mirrored in the look of Ejae, the Korean singer-songwriter known for voicing Rumi in the animated series “KPop Demon Hunters.” This shared approach to skincare among artists underscores a growing trend toward valuing healthy, radiant skin as the foundation for any makeup look.
A variety of other stars also embraced this fresh-faced beauty trend, notably Laufey, Wunmi Mosaku, and Emily Blunt, all exuding a luminous glow. Yet, it was clear that the no-makeup makeup look had evolved. Bold lip colors and winged eyeliner added dimension to their faces, illustrating a departure from minimalism. Meanwhile, Lisa from BLACKPINK embodied the Aegyo Sal makeup style that is popular in Korea, using makeup techniques to create a youthful look with delicate under-eye highlights.
In the mix, Lancôme ambassador Amanda Seyfried showcased classic beauty with an elegant updo and a radiant complexion. Tessa Thompson, top nominee for her role in “Hedda,” opted for a fresh look as well, favoring nude tones for her lips and eyelids. This year marked a shift away from vibrant blush tones, with many like Thompson and Jenna Ortega leaning into bronzy shades. Ortega’s makeup artist, Melanie Inglessis, brilliantly combined gothic elements with cool tones for a striking effect, while Chase Infiniti chose a rosy lip to complete her softer look.
Audrey Nuna, the voice behind Mira from “KPop Demon Hunters,” captured attention with a bold, matte black lip that matched her archival Thom Browne ensemble. Oona Chaplin, who plays Varang in “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” also turned heads with a dramatic black smokey eye, channeling her character’s fierce spirit. These bold choices illustrated the expansive range of beauty aesthetics celebrated at the awards, creating a dynamic visual experience on the red carpet.
Adding to the bold beauty statements was Teyana Taylor, who played with double-winged eyeliner, ombré brown lips, and defined brows. This year’s Golden Globes did not just showcase exceptional films and performances but also delivered a diverse array of inspiring beauty looks, merging classic and modern influences. As the stars took to the red carpet, they reinforced the notion that beauty is ever-evolving, celebrating individuality while embracing both heritage and innovation in the world of makeup.
