The event calendar bubbled last week after the quietness that followed the previous week, and Black women wasted no time rising to the occasion. In answer to the call of back-to-back, high-brow gatherings, they delivered beauty looks that delighted the eyes and stirred the imagination. From the British Fashion Awards to film premieres and glossy editorial spreads, A-listers offered makeup and hairstyles that elevated the week’s style conversation with undeniable flair.
Indeed, if one word captured last week’s beauty showdown, it was intriguing. Whether it was the silver eye accents Anok Yai chose while accepting the Model of the Year Award in London, or the blonde curls worn by Tyra Banks and Serena Williams on headline-making magazine covers, the week’s looks fascinated, impressed, and set a new benchmark for bold, expressive beauty. As always, here are our favorite beauty choices from the standout week.
The Looks
Makeup
One of the most-talked-about fashion moments came courtesy of Rihanna. Appearing at the Gotham Awards, the singer turned heads in a voluminous pink Balenciaga gown, but it was her glam that truly set the tone. Feather-light brows opened the look, while shimmering smoky eyes pushed the drama into unforgettable territory. Bright pink cheeks echoed the hue of her statement dress and feathered hat, and a chrome-finish lip added a high-shine, high-precision touch. This wasn’t just makeup; it was a declaration of modern femininity.
Anok Yai may have captivated the audience with her speech upon winning Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards, but her makeup won us over long before she reached the stage. Like Rihanna, she embraced festive shimmer, only hers gleamed in silver. She wore a graphic smoky eye that sculpted the outer corners and silver pigment at the inner corners for immediate impact. Against her radiant, deep complexion, the shimmer read like stars scattered across a midnight sky. A glossy lip, high-shine highlighter across the bridge of her nose, and décolleté glow completed a truly luminous moment.
Hair
Meanwhile, iconic model Tyra Banks graced the cover of Marie Claire España with unmistakable presence. Across the spread, the 52-year-old beauty wore a voluminous honey-blonde curly hairstyle that sat right at her shoulders. The look softened her jawline, added a sensual, bouncy finish, and paired seamlessly with both her pink and white ensembles. Indeed, it was proof that a great hairstyle can elevate any outfit with ease.
Megan Thee Stallion also had a great week. After winning her defamation trial against online commentator Miracle Cooperthe rapper stepped out in a look worth remembering. During one courthouse appearance, she styled her wavy hair into a half-up, half-down look—but it was the top section that showcased her creativity. Instead of a standard ponytail or bun, she opted for two twisted spiral rolls that framed her face and highlighted her makeup. Sleek edges and soft, cascading waves made the style the perfect finishing touch to her pinstripe suit.
Check out the makeup looks and hairstyles seen on celebs at the British Fashion Awards and other events last week…
Rihanna
Shop editor’s finds
Iman
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Tems
Get the lashes
Kelly Rowland
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Serena Williams
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Da’Vine Joy Randolph
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Tyra Banks
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Megan Thee Stallion
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Anok Yai
Get the shimmer
Jourdan Dunn
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