We already saw some impressive looks at the Teen Choice Awards earlier this summer, but stars at the VMAs brought beauty to a whole new level. Two major makeup trends emerged this year, which happen to be on opposite sides of the spectrum. While some artists opted for a natural look, others went all out with bold colors and dramatic hairstyles. Either way, these celebs definitely caught some attention for their daring decisions.

Barely there
When you’re rocking an ornate dress, it’s sometimes best to tone down your makeup. In fact, plenty of performers kept their makeup palette neutral so as not to overpower their ensemble. Ciara, who wore an eye-catching Givenchy gown adorned with sparkles and feathers, was one of them. Her dress wasn’t the only thing that was sheer, either – the singer rocked a radiant complexion, natural lips and soft taupe eyeshadow.

Ellie Goulding is another celeb that went for subtle beauty. The British pop star donned an elaborate nude floor-length gown, which was completely covered in silver spikes. Considering her intricate ensemble, Goulding made a wise choice in opting to keep her makeup to a minimum. Barely rosy lips and a faint glow on her cheeks were just enough to complement her stunning outfit.

Supermodel Coco Rocha wins the award for most understated beauty, however. She took a fashion risk by opting for black skinny jeans and a leather moto jacket instead of a formal frock, but her makeup helped to take some of the edge off her striking look.

Shock and awe
Taylor Swift looked like a 1940s Hollywood starlet at the VMAs, which was dramatically different than her typical style. Her chin-length blonde locks were perfectly curled into loose ringlets that recalled Marilyn Monroe’s famous ‘do. Meanwhile, red lipstick and nail lacquer added to the elegance and contrasted her navy blue Max Azria gown.

Though Miley Cyrus was rocking red lips as well, her eccentric hair knots and bold eyebrows made for a totally different effect.

Jennifer Hudson hit the nail on the head beauty-wise, wearing makeup fit for a diva. She softened up an edgy black leather pencil skirt, metal choker and chunky cuffs with pale pink lipgloss and a coy cat eye.

Selena Gomez also drew some attention on the red carpet. Sleek, straight locks and vibrant fuchsia lips were the highlight of the nominee’s look, and perfectly complemented a jaw-dropping navy dress.