From the Oscars to the Emmys, fans love to see favorite stars glam it up for the camera. The stakes are high when the entire world is watching, but how can they make sure they look their absolute best? Even the tiniest slip-up could get you bad press for months, if not years, and sometimes, plain old products just don't cut it. Here are some of the not-so-glamorous things the stars do to look red carpet-ready. You won't believe how weird some of them are!
That's No Ordinary Eyebrow Product
For celebs who want to make a statement, big, bold brows are a popular way to go. Models like Cara Delevingne have their gift from nature, but most mere humans need some help in that department. Sow what do the stars use, when the old eyebrow pencil just isn't enough? After color and texture are added, they use lip balm. Yes, that stuff! Smearing something sticky keeps everything in place, and lip balm is perfect for the job.
As opposed to those hideous thin eyebrows that were popular in the '90s and early '00s, thick, bold eyebrows are considered a necessity on the red carpet these days!
The Underwear Struggle Is Real
On a daily basis, our clothing is pretty simple. Even if your outfit is enviable, it probably follows a format. There's a top, a bottom, and both cover the bits we don't want to show. But on the red carpet, garments are designed to be unconventional, very much on purpose. The classic bra and panty will potentially show all over the place. What's a star to do, besides going commando?
One strategy may be stick-ons. A lot of celebrities love a brand called Shibue Couture undergarments. They specialize in creating seamless, string-free covers for even the strangest dresses. It's all about the adhesive, baby!
The Cherry Jell-O Hack
They say there is a red for every woman. If you find the right tone, you too can be fierce. Celebs have a team that really knows how to pick colors that suit them. But some of the products they love don't last the whole night. There's a trick to make red lipstick last longer than its product promise. It involves cherry Jell-O, of all things. Weird? It gets weirder.
Just apply the dry Jell-O powder on wet lips before lipstick. Kids know that this stuff stains for hours longer than the snack. As the makeup fades, the red shows through!
They Use This for the Ultimate Red Hue
Red hair is the rarest natural color in the world today. Although some gingers grow up self-conscious about the hue, it could become an asset later in life. In Hollywood, for example, red really makes some actresses stand out from the crowd. There's Christina Hendricks, who turned heads on Madmen. Those fans might also admire Emma Stone, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Jessica Chastain. And they have a weird way to maintain their stunning color!
To play up the vibrant tones, some of these women apply pomegranate or cranberry juice before an event. Although it would do little for a brunette, it can slightly enhance hair that is already rosy. The more you know!
The Toned up Tan Trick
There are stars who like to play up their pale skin, and those that like the maximize their tan. Each has an appeal, no doubt. But there is an extra benefit to being darker: You look way more toned. There's something about the dark contrast with muscle that makes them stand out in the light. For that effect, even the most in-shape celebs like to use self-tanner or spray tan, and they do it in a very specific way.
If a star wants to wear a gown to show off their arms, it's best to apply tanning spray under their triceps. This visual effect makes the entire arm look more toned. It's genius!
They're All Shape Shifters
We all think that celebs are better than us, body-wise. And maybe they are! But truthfully, they get a little help along the way. There's liposuction and implants. But even beyond that, there are garments that tighten everything up beyond the human form. Spanks and even old-fashioned corsets are used on the red carpet for maximum effect. Does anyone think that Kim Kardashian was born this way? These curves are out of control!
Body shapers really make things look extreme for a few hours. They just need to wear it long enough to get their perfection snapped. But we know they don't wear this at home. It looks like torture!
How They Achieve the Pantyless Look
Starlets love to push the boundaries of fashion these days. The slits are higher, and the necklines are lower. Things have become so risque that underwear doesn't even function anymore! Celebs have their ways of dealing with a challenging design, without a slip up for hours. One method to make sure there are no panty lines is to cut up nude nylons. Even the tightest dress won't show the truth!
Some stars use cut off nylons as extremely thin undergarments, and it sure helps when they're exiting a limo. The paparazzi are everywhere, and they can be cruel. They're literally waiting for a crotch shot!
The Painful Facelift Quickie
As we all know, time waits for no one. There comes a time in life when almost every woman considers a facelift. Long before that, there's botox and miracle creams. But maybe you're not quite at that stage yet, and neither are some of Hollywood's finest. It turns out a particular hairdo can take some years off your face. That's why some celebrities often wear tight braids around their faces!
That's right. Getting a few little braids near your temples can pull back the facial skin, just a little. Stylists can even hide them under your hair. Very sneaky stuff!
Who Knew They Used Sandpaper to Do This
Walking in high heels all night is a job skill, in LA — it's a must when you want to make it in Hollywood. We admire that celebs do it so well, because we sure can't. But we wonder: Do they have any tricks that let them do it so effortlessly? Trips and falls are so rare that there must be some secret method they use. So what is it?
Apparently, sandpaper is involved. Try it yourself: Put that rough material inside your shoes, and your feet will never slip again. No matter how sweaty things get, you have extra friction. It sounds so painful!
Get Big Shoe Energy
High heels enhance our legs and bottoms, by design. But do we actually enjoy wearing them? Mostly, no. Wearing heels is often more painful than pretty. How do stars spend hours upon hours smiling in them? There is a trick to it, and it's pretty clever. Many celebs opt for shoes that are one size too big. That way, there's room to fill them with all kinds of cushioning, like silicone.
Once you tape the squishy stuff in, you're good to go. It still might be challenging to make it the whole night in stilettos, though. Only so much can be done to fight gravity. But it sure helps!
The Clever Blazer Trick
When you've gone through your couture closet and nothing fits quite right, all may seem lost. but never fear: There's always a style solution in the form of a blazer. Nothing like a little structured fabric to create the illusion that everything looks just right. Most celebs have a few designer versions of this classic piece. Stylists say it is flattering on any body type!
This is hack that anyone can use on one of those days where nothing seems to fit. If the stars are doing it, so can we!
Hairline Adjustments Are a Thing in Hollywood
You probably don't think about your own hairline very often. But when you're a celebrity, cameras zoom in and expose every flaw. If you have dark hair, imperfections are more visible. Your hairline frames your face, in a way. Have you ever thought about that? Red carpet stylists think of everything, and this includes using brow powder to even that out. Symmetry is key when the stars want to look flawless.
If you have a strange hairline, you might even remove some of it. Hollywood stars used to get painful electrolysis to do exactly that, but fans never knew a thing!
JLo's Weird Triple Shine Trick
Sometimes having a matte look is considered extra stylish. But there's something about dewy and shiny skin that makes a statement on the red carpet. Certain celebs are just known for their glow. Jennifer Lopez is the queen of that category, and often collaborates with brands to sell highlighters. But what is her technique? We were surprised to learn that she gets a little extra help from a common household product.
Jlo uses Vaseline on her face, in addition to the high-end highlighters she uses. There's never enough glimmer, shimmer, and shine for this star. Sounds sticky!
That's Not Supposed to Go on Your Face
You might rightly say that deodorant belongs in the armpits. But there are uses for it that you never imagined. To prepare for the red carpet, celebs use deodorant on their faces. They're not afraid of smelling bad there, of course. It's actually a trick makeup artists suggest to look cool on warm days. Just make sure that it's a product labeled antiperspirant, and it will work like magic.
The body reacts in a predictable way, and celebs want to manage the process. Faces get sweaty under spotlights and the hot California sun!
The Booty Adjustment
It seems like there has been a big shift from the chest to the bottom in Hollywood. It used to be all about cleavage, but butts are all the rage now. Celebs are taking steps to boost them on the red carpet. This dress worn by Khloe Kardashian shows off all her curves. But slimmer actresses like Kirsten Bell also want in on the trend. What was her method to get eyes on her prize?
Well, Kristen revealed she wore padded briefs to the Golden Globes Awards. She wasn't ashamed to admit she enhanced her backside, just for a night. It might be more common than we think!
Youthful Hand Trick
Dermatologists always demand that you wear sunscreen, and not just to prevent cancer. It’s also the most reliable way to stop the aging process, because of UVA rays. These nasty rays break down your collagen! And while many ladies are heeding this advice on their face, they probably forget about their hands. Ever see a woman with a young face and really old fingers? But there are more, weird ways to prevent that from happening!
Just ask actress Lea Michelle, who has a pretty unique strategy. It turns out, she uses highlighter on her hands!
How They Don't Even Sweat It
No one likes it when a pricey item gets stained. Coffee and wine are common culprits, but the worst thing is sweat stains, and the red carpet is no place for pictures of that. Some stars have actually decided to prevent this with medical intervention. We all know that botox can help with wrinkles, but it is now being used to stop sweat from leaking out. Apparently, it paralyzes all kinds of things!
Chrissy Teigen is open about getting it for her overactive sweat glands. It was a constant issue during her most glamorous moments. Who knew!
The Magic of Wig Tape
We all thought that big wigs were a thing of the past. George Washington wore them well, sure. But we never thought about using them! The red carpet has changed all that, though, with the resurgence of fake hair. Artists like Doja Cat and Nicki Minaj have popularized them yet again, and they want you to know that there is a smart way to use them. Never forget one essential!
Stylists will all tell you that double-sided tape is key for wig wear. The last thing a celeb wants is lost hair at a premiere.
It's All About That Tone
Ladies who use SPF on their face every day will find that over time, their body doesn't match. If you're a tanner at the pool, you are going to end up with strange bikini lines, too. On the red carpet, that just looks odd. Stars use makeup from head to toe to ensure an even tone. Tan lines, bruises, or even strange birthmarks never make it to a film premiere. But how do they do it?
This one is relatively simple - makeup, of course. It isn't just for your face, and it does wonders when the stars want to hide those imperfections!
Keep Those Toes Tamed
Surprisingly, closed shoes are not popular on the red carpet. There seems to be much more toe going on, and pedicures are a must. Open shoes offer less support, but are pretty to look at. Celebs have to walk around without a hint of pain. It's their job! After the fact, we know they deal with blisters. To avoid that, the stars are taping their third and fourth toes together. It helps, actually!
It may sound strange, but think about it: Tape is a barrier between the strap and the skin. It's a great idea, and it seems to work!
The Little Spoon
Dark circles are a reality for some of us. The phenomenon can be the result of fatigue, though sometimes, it's just genetic. For those in the first category, caffeine creams promise great results. Celebs have started bringing them to events, along with a little spoon to wake up the area. The combo is perfect for puffy, dark eyes. That's the last thing anyone wants in the tabloids. Imagine the gossip, to explain the exhaustion!
If you want to copy their method, rub in the eye cream and press down with a spoon. That's supposed to speed up the process. Let us know how it goes!
The Shimmery Hair Trick
Shiny hair is always our goal. You've never heard a compliment about your dull locks, have you? We don't think that is going to be a trend anytime soon. We've also noticed that on the red carpet, everyone has our dream hair. What is their trick to make it look so healthy? As it turns out, masks, sprays and oils were never enough to match their shine. It's something else!
Their hair is on another level of sparkle from fine micro glitter. Clever hairdressers put the powder in hairspray, and the results are dazzling. Try it yourself, you shimmering goddesses!
Some Actually Use Tint on Their Gums
Hollywood is known for bright, white smiles. It always was, even when things were black and white. Today, in vivid color, there is even more reason to watch your teeth. If you're a lady that likes to wear bright red lipstick at events, there is a neat way you can heighten the contrast. Celebs are staining their gums with red lip stain. The effect is subtle, but it does work!
We honestly think this is one of the weirder tricks they use on the red carpet, but hey, if it works!
No More Chafing
For stars that weigh a bit more, chafing is an actual problem. Amy Schumer, for example, openly talks about how she always has that issue. Her thighs would rub together uncomfortably under tight dresses. Of course, that's the uniform of the red carpet. Sounds like it hurt! Some stars choose to lose weight like Adele recently did. But for those who are still in the process, there must be a solution. What does Amy suggest?
The comedian spreads deodorant on the area. The powdery effect helps. It's not a bad idea if you're going to be out for a few hours in front of the camera.
Automatic Static Killer
Glossy hair is nice when you leave the hair chair. But how long does it stay that way? From experience, we can tell you that the world messes with it pretty quickly. Just the electrical energy in the air can create flyaways. Stars actually use dryer sheets to stop the static, and it works like a charm. Just run one sheet over your locks, and you're all reset. You're welcome!
Pro-tip: We recommend the unscented dryer sheets. But if you're into fresh mountain rain or daffodil dreams, there's no harm in that. Look glam while you freshen up every room!
Stay Perfectly Polished
Stars never seem to have a smeared manicure. Why not? We've all done it: Waiting for our nails to dry is really, really, boring. It often seems like things are done, and then one wrong move ruins it all. On the red carpet, there's no room for error when it comes to nails. Jessica Biel has a strategy that ensures she is never spotted with a hideous hand. We're prepared to steal it!
The longer you wait, the more opportunity there is to mess it all up. As soon as Jessica's nails are painted, she uses her favorite Fast Drops to speed up the drying process. Easy, peasy!
Apparently This Outdated Trick Is Still Being Used
At some point in our lives, we put on tights. But after prom night, there have been few reasons to wear translucent nylons. It's a bit out of fashion, for casual outings. Employers also don't seem to expect it. But you should know that there is still a very common use for them on the red carpet. They hold everything in, and they are nearly invisible. What could be better?
If you see a celeb wearing closed-toed shoes, they just might be hiding the footie seam. Minimizing the jiggles and looking shiny and smooth are goals in Hollywood. Tights, please!
Tone up With This Massage
Strutting your stuff on the carpet can be nerve-wracking: Even those who act professionally get self-conscious in front of the world. We don't judge them! But we are curious about them. How do they prepare to look toned? A popular method is a massage, and a very particular one at that. The focus is on the stomach, believe it or not. Gwyneth Paltrow and Cameron Diaz are said to be fans!
What pressure points do they address? Maybe none. But it gets the blood and oxygen flowing to the area. You might look just a bit thinner if the muscles are taut. Worth a shot!
An Eyepopping Hack
Conquering Hollywood is actually a lot of work. When you're busy promoting films and running around 24/7, tired eyes are a real risk. No one wants to see an exhausted star on the red carpet, ad they know it. There is a makeup trick that some ladies use to look bright-eyed, no matter the day. Charlize Theron is a big fan of the technique, and she never looks like a zombie. What is it?
Experts suggest trying neutral eyeliner. This makes eyes pop, but no one can really see why. It's subtle, but it really makes them look bigger and brighter. That's the goal!
Nothing Beats the Toothbrush Trick
A movie premiere is no place to have crazy, messy hair. Your hair is your crown, and it needs to look just right. How do the ladies of the carpet ensure that pesky pieces don’t cause a distraction? One technique to conquer flyaways and fuzz involves a toothbrush. All you need to do is coast the bristles with hairspray and brush the strays away. You can decide where they go. Finally, you're in control!
But that's all professional. If you want to let your strands go wild, that's entirely up to you. The hack is available to us all, should we need to be neat.
Wrinkle No More
There's nothing like a sleek silky gown to make a statement. But if you're going to travel in it, as we expect you will, there's a real hazard in the car. Just sitting down would wrinkle the garment beyond repair! How do they make it to the red carpet without looking like a crinkled mess? The answer is sillier than you'd expect!
Some celebs literally lay down in the ride on the way to an event. It's extreme, but they have to stay crease-free. In summary: Silk has its pros and cons!
Raccoon Prevention
Getting a black eye seems to be bad in every context. Whether you get punched in the face or smear your mascara, it's all bad news. Celebs certainly don't want to deal with that look in event photos. But with all the eyeliner and shadow they use, there is a real risk it could melt into a mess. We wonder: How do makeup artists minimize the risk of raccoon eyes?
Makeup artists put a piece of tape under their clients' eyes during cosmetic application. Once the colors are where they belong, a finishing spray can hold things in place. Red carpet specialists say this is key!
Cover It Creatively
Red carpet trends are a topic all their own. The cuts are getting more creative, and the fabric is getting thinner. We love the latest looks. How are you supposed to conceal your naughty bits, when everything clashes with standard bras and panty sets? It's a challenge. Luckily, the solutions have expanded. Celebrity stylists know how to use tape, if nothing else, to get the job done. What's their technique?
Reportedly, they form an X-shape with scotch tape over the chest. The most intimate parts are covered, and the tape holds the rest of the mass up. It's invisible under the sheerest fabric!
The Emergency Skin Plan
Some of us were born with perfect skin. But most of us were not, and our beauty cabinet is filled with creams and scrubs. How can we stay clear, all the time? A lot of products promise the world but do not deliver. Apple cider vinegar doesn't promise anything. Celebs seem to think it does the job the best though! How do they use it for radiance before an event?
Pimples and blemishes don't belong on the red carpet. If nothing else, apple cider vinegar can reduce the redness. It's not a bad idea, in a pinch. It's already in your kitchen!
It's All About Visine
On the red carpet, we notice everyone seems really rested. Looking fresh is no accident. In truth, we know they have busy schedules filming long hours and promoting projects. One trick celebs use is Visine solution, of all things. if they haven't had a decent night's sleep before a big day, these common drops can fix that. The formula reduces inflammation around the eyes. But there is another surprising benefit!
Putting this stuff on skin redness reduces it. We never knew! Even dermatologists admit it. The verdict: Celebs can have bright eyes and use less concealer with this little bottle.