The Best Beauty Moments In Oscars History

Being that the Oscars is the last major installment of awards season, celebs tend to go big or go home. This means skirts get bigger, slits get higher, and the pixie cuts come out. While I enjoy a beautiful dress, I am partial to a good beauty look, hence my desire to round up the best Oscars beauty moments in history.

When actors receive their awards, the cameras don’t usually go straight to their outfit. They go straight to their face, and that's why I think beauty might just be the most important part of the red carpet extravaganza. After all, Halle Berry’s see-through Oscars gown in 2002, though it was exceptionally gorgeous, might not have looked so cool if it hadn't been for her spiked pixie, and Michelle Williams’ canary yellow gown from 2006 might just have been another dress if it hadn't been for her bright red lips. Moral of the story: If your beauty game isn't on point, your dress probably wont be either.

In honor of the 88th Annual Academy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 28, I thought it only fitting to take a look back at the most memorable Oscars beauty looks ever. From long straight locks to retro-inspired curls and a braided up-do or two, the stars pull out all the stops on this red carpet. Scroll down to see 17 of my favorite beauty looks from the history of the Oscars.

1. Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn's brows speak for themselves.

2. Lupita Nyong'o

From her dewy face makeup to her shimmering lips, Lupita Nyong'o has the glow of a winner.

3. Cate Blanchett

Blanchett's understated makeup and nude lip were the perfect compliments to her embellished gown.

4. Halle Berry

Halle Berry's spiky short 'do gave her elegant gown just the right amount of edge.

5. Jennifer Lawrence

Smokey eyes plus braided bun equal perfection.

6. Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams made an impact with a bold red lip and face-framing tendrils.

7. Jennifer Anniston

Jennifer Anniston was responsible for the braided bangs look that was so popular in the late aughts.

8. Winona Ryder

Winona Ryder looked gorgeous with a retro-inspired 'do.

9. Reese Witherspoon

Show off your jewelry with a high volume pony like Reese Witherspoon's.

10. Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman's princess-inspired up-do was made even more romantic by her natural brows and shimmering cheeks.

11. Rooney Mara

Mara brought her A-game to the Oscars with a red pout and pinup style blunt bangs.

13. Nicole Kidman

Kidman proved that long, straight locks can be just as chic as barrel curls.

13. Sienna Miller

Another smoky eye and braided up-do for the win.

14. Angelina Jolie

Jolie's natural pout and subtle cat eye were the perfect compliments to her pulled-back curls.

15. Scarlett Johansson

Johansson's buzzed pixie and pink pout were both edgy and feminine.

16. Gwyneth Paltrow

Paltrow looked like a true California girl with her golden skin and effortlessly chic low pony.

17. Drew Barrymore

Barrymore was the epitome of the '90s with her body glitter and flower adorned hair.

See? A dress is only just a dress until it's elevated by a rad beauty look.

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