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The 7 Best Oscar Beauty Trends Ever

Let’s be honest here: One of the best parts of the Oscars is the beauty looks. And the only thing we love more than ogling our favorite celeb’s cool eyeliner technique is pulling it off ourselves.

In anticipation of this year’s 92nd annual Academy Awards (taking place on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC), we’re taking a look back at the best Oscars beauty trends throughout the years. 

Here, seven looks from the past we’re working into our beauty routine.

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gwyneth paltrow oscars makeup
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1. Gwyneth Paltrow’s Inner-eye Highlighter (1999)

GP rocked shimmery inner eye corners before it was a thing (because, obviously). And we’re obsessed with its ability to brighten and wake up tired eyes in literal seconds. Just dab your pinky in a powder highlighter of choice and press into the inner corner.


elizabeth taylor oscars beauty
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2. Elizabeth Taylor's Full Brows And Baby Hair (1957)

There may have been a lapse of judgment during the pencil-thin brow and slicked-back mane era, but here’s proof that letting your arches and baby hair go natural is forever classic. Dip an angled brush into brow powder, and then fill yours in with dash-like strokes. Use a little pomade to set both your eyebrow and hairline fringe in place.


charlize theron oscars makeup
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3. Charlize Theron’s Nude Glossy Lips (2004)

Matte lipstick had its day, but lately, we’re all about nude gloss. Charlize’s lip color is goals and so easy to wear. Exfoliate your pout for a smooth canvas, and then swipe on a pinky-nude gloss. It doesn’t have to be precise, so you don’t even need a mirror.

janelle monae oscars beauty
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4. Janelle Monae’s Bejeweled Headband (2017)

Hair accessories of all shapes and sizes are having a moment, and this headband is by far the simplest way to get in on the trend (no matter how long or short your hair is). Oh, and the sparklier the better.


barbra streisand oscars beauty
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5. Barbra Streisand’s Graphic Eyeliner (1969)

Forget the dainty kitten eye or the barely-there kohl-rimmed waterline. This bold approach is sharp, inky and seriously edgy. Use a liquid or gel liner for the most precise lines.

daryl hannah oscars beauty
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6. Daryl Hannah’s Loose Waves (1980)

We don’t even want to call this style “old” Hollywood glam, because it’s so timeless. A deep side part creates added volume at the crown for soft cascading waves. Finish by running a drop or two of argan oil over the lengths for extra shine.


olivia culpo oscars makeup
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7. Olivia Culpo’s Ultra Violet Smoky Eye (2017)

Traditional smoky eyes are all kinds of sultry, but purple smoky eyes are unexpected and flattering—especially on brown-eyed gals. Grab a shimmery shadow and apply it to both top and bottom lash lines, finishing with a hefty dose of mascara to make it pop.

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Brianna Lapolla formerly held the role of Senior Commerce Editor at PureWow covering all things shopping across beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Now, she's putting her 12 years of professional experience to use on a freelance basis. When she's not typing away, you can find her somewhere in Europe or at home catering to her dog, King Louis.