Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • Beauty

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See

The 2016 American Music Awards delivered a mixed bag of red carpet looks. While some kept it simple and chic (Taraji P. Henson, Kat Graham, Teyana Taylor), others like Keke Palmer and Tinashe dared to show a little skin or play with patterns for the annual fan favorite show. And of course, all of these beautiful ladies came to slay with their hair and makeup choices. In case you missed the pre-show antics, here's a recap of the only looks you need to see. 
By Nikki Brown · Updated October 26, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…
01
Teyana Taylor

The singer and actress kept things simple with a hair look similar to the one in her iconic “Fade” moment. And let’s not overlook her fleeky eyebrows and perfect nude lip. 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
02
Kat Graham

The Vampire Diaries actress and singer sported a wavy ombre bob and what looks like shimmery green-grey shadow. 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
03
Tinashe

The singer was “2 on” with her killer messy bun; these curls are seriously poppin’. Combined with her understated makeup, this is definitely the most effortlessly chic beauty moment of the night. 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Frazer Harrison/AMA2016
04
Garcelle Beauvais

Beauvais’ sleek, straight do is what hair dreams are made of. She’s never looked better! 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
05
Normani Kordei

The Fifth Harmony songtress looks incredibly regal in this ear-length bob. And we’re so here for the long lashes, too. 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Steve Granitz/WireImage
06
Taraji P. Henson

The Hidden Figures actress took our breath away with this waist length ponytail and purple lipstick combo. We’re obsessed! 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Kevin Mazur/AMA2016
07
Keke Palmer

The singer and actress smoldered in a pretty pixie and subtle smoky eye. 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Kevin Mazur/AMA2016
08
Ciara

Besides that undeniable pregnancy glow, the singer looked simply darling in a high ponytail and wispy bangs. 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Kevin Mazur/AMA2016
09
Janelle Monae

Where do we start with the singer and burgeoning actress’ A+ look? Her silver nail beds are mani goals, the pink eyeliner is next level makeup artistry and her soft waves make for one of the night’s more unique hairstyles. Long story short: Monae doesn’t disappoint! 

These Are the Only AMA Beauty and Hair Looks You Need To See
Frazer Harrison/AMA2016
TOPICS:  Ciara Keke Palmer Taraji P. Henson