The 2026 Oscars may be over (you can see the full list of winners here), but the red carpet delivered plenty of beauty inspiration worth remembering.
From glowing, barely-there makeup to timeless Hollywood hair, this year’s standout looks were elegant, polished and surprisingly wearable – the kind of trends many of us could actually try at home.
While the fashion always turns heads (take a look at the best red carpet looks here), the beauty moments were just as memorable.
Here are the key trends we spotted on the Oscars red carpet – and how to recreate them at home.
Glowing, natural skin
Heavy, dramatic makeup took a back seat this year, with many stars embracing a more natural, radiant look.
Think luminous skin, soft blush and barely-there eye makeup that enhances rather than hides natural features.
Nicole Kidman, Demi Moore, Zoe Saldana, Emma Stone and Elle Fanning were among the stars showcasing beautifully fresh skin, proof that sometimes less really is more.
If you want to recreate the look at home, the key is hydration. A hyaluronic acid-based product such as Hada Labo Lotion No.1 Super Hydrator helps plump the skin and create that dewy base, while cult favourite Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair is loved for boosting radiance. For an instant red carpet glow under makeup, L’Oreal Paris Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer adds a soft, lit-from-within look.
Return of the bold lip
No red carpet is complete without a classic red lip.
Rose Byrne led the charge with a timeless crimson shade that instantly elevated her look. Meanwhile Sentimental Value star Renate Reinsve opted for a striking bright red, and Best Actress winner Jessie Buckley wore a glossy, vibrant lip that matched her gown.
A bold lipstick remains one of the easiest ways to add a little glamour. Rouge Dior Long Wear Lipstick delivers a rich, classic red, while Estée Lauder Pure Color Lipstick offers elegant rosy shades for those who prefer something softer.
Pretty in pink
Soft, romantic pink tones were another red carpet favourite.
Kate Hudson, Emma Stone and Elle Fanning were just some of the stars pairing delicate pink blush with matching rosy lips for a fresh, feminine finish.
To recreate the look, reach for a blush that melts seamlessly into the skin. Merit Flush Balm Cheek Colour gives you a sheer, natural flush, while Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush has become a cult favourite for its long-lasting colour and soft-focus finish.
Timeless, elegant hair
Hair on the Oscars red carpet leaned classic and effortless this year.
Nicole Kidman wore her hair in soft, tousled waves, while Kate Hudson channelled old-school Hollywood glamour with beautifully sculpted waves. Demi Moore and Marty Supreme star Gwyneth Paltrow both opted for sleek, sophisticated styles.
Bobs were also having a moment, with Emma Stone’s softly flipped lob and Jessie Buckley’s sleek bob.
And for those who love an elegant updo, Rose Byrne, Zoe Saldana and Elle Fanning all stepped out with chic chignons, a red-carpet staple that never goes out of style.
To recreate these looks at home, the right tools can make styling much easier. Multi-stylers like the Dyson Airwrap are popular for soft waves and volume, while straighteners such as the ghd Platinum+ Styler can also be used to create smooth, polished curls. Finish with a few drops of Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil through the mid-lengths and ends to add shine and tame flyaways.
