NAACP Image Awards: Ariana Grande’s Beauty Carpet Evolution Is Soft Glam Perfection
Few artists understand the assignment of a beauty carpet quite like Ariana Grande.
While her vocal prowess is undeniable, Grande’s red carpet evolution has quietly mirrored her artistic growth which is polished, intentional, and increasingly cinematic.
Over the years, she’s transformed from pop star into a full-fledged glamour girl, using hair, makeup, and couture to signal each new era before she ever steps to a microphone.
At the center of her beauty identity is, of course, the ponytail is a signature so globally recognized it operates like a logo.
Whether styled in its classic snatched form or softened into Glinda-coded waves for her "Wicked" press run, the look remains a masterclass in brand consistency.
Paired with her elongated cat eye, fluttered lashes, and glossy nude lip, Grande has built a beauty uniform that is both instantly identifiable and endlessly adaptable.
Her "Wicked" era, however, has ushered in perhaps her most refined carpet presence yet.
Leaning into ethereal glam, the songstress has embraced soft pink palettes, champagne shadow washes, and sculpted updos that nod to Old Hollywood while still feeling modern.
The result is a visual language that aligns seamlessly with her portrayal of Glinda, who is delicate, whimsical, and precise. It’s method dressing through beauty, executed at the highest level.
This elevated red carpet run arrives alongside major recognition for the film adaptation of "Wicked: For Good."
At this year’s NAACP Image Awards, the project earned nominations for Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture and Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional), signaling not only the film’s cultural impact but also Ariana’s collaborative synergy within its powerhouse cast and musical arrangements.
What makes her beauty carpet dominance so compelling is her restraint.
Simply put, Grande doesn’t just walk carpets and she world-builds on them. See a few of her grandest outfits below.
Timeless Glam
Grande delivers classic beauty carpet elegance in this over-the-shoulder moment, pairing a sleek high ponytail with a soft, glowing glam beat.
Her skin is diffused to a satin finish, complemented by a sculpted cheek and muted rose lip that keeps the focus on her natural features.
The delicate diamond necklace and stud earrings add just enough sparkle without overpowering the look. A subtle winged liner and fluttered lashes frame her eyes, reinforcing her signature beauty code.
The off-shoulder black gown ties it all together from timeless, feminine, and camera-ready from every angle.
Ablazed In Her Blazer
Grande leans into tailored minimalism here, wearing an oversized black blazer that shifts her beauty aesthetic into a more androgynous, editorial lane.
Her hair is pulled back into a clean sculpted updo, allowing her facial structure to take center stage. Soft matte skin, brushed brows, and a pale nude lip create a refined, porcelain-like finish.
Pearl earrings introduce a vintage softness that contrasts beautifully with the structured silhouette. She's literally so stunning.
Glinda In Full Bloom
Channeling her "Wicked" era, Ariana stuns in a blush-pink embellished gown that feels equal parts whimsical and regal.
Her voluminous high bun accentuates the neckline while spotlighting the gown’s intricate crystal detailing.
Makeup follows suit with champagne shadow, fluttered lashes, and a glossy pink lip that mirrors the dress palette.
The glam leans theatrical without feeling costume-heavy. Every detail works together to create a fairytale beauty carpet moment.
- advertisement
Ballerina Realness
In this strapless black-and-tulle ballgown look, Grande balances drama with delicacy.
The structured bodice contrasts beautifully against the airy skirt, while her glam remains soft and ethereal.
A ribbon-tied ponytail adds a romantic twist to her signature hairstyle. Winged liner and luminous skin maintain her consistent beauty throughline.
The finished look feels ballerina-coded as she was graceful, polished, and stage-ready.
Miss Blush Couture, We Want More
Grande returns to blush tones in this asymmetrical, jewel-embellished gown that feels architectural in design. Her sleek bun keeps the focus on the neckline and intricate beading.
A soft pink lip paired with diffused blush placement enhances the romantic palette. Subtle shimmer across the lids catches the light without overpowering the look.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards on BET and CBS on Feb. 28, 2026.
