Independent Spirit Awards 2016: The Best Skin, Hair and Makeup Looks on the Red Carpet

Every year, the night before the Oscars, there are the Independent Spirit Awards—where the carefree indie vibes also inform the hair and makeup decisions. 

This is a fun one! Here are the top beauty looks: 

Jessica Biel

If this doesn't make you want to wear bright eyeliner, I don't know what will! Jessica is rocking the heck out of this neon blue wing, grounded by a black one closer to the lash line. Bare everything else and Bohemian hair (like she just undid a braid) make it even cooler. 

Emilia Clarke

All is gorge here, especially Emilia's shimmery lips (a texture that feels very of-the-moment). Not sure if her highlights are new, but they're expertly done—they add dimension and face-brightening effects, without looking streaky, too light or too ashy. 

Freida Pinto

I love Freida's rosy matte lips—again, a very modern texture—and the softness of her smoky eyes. (I think I even detect some purple tones in there.) Her skin is beautiful and flawless, so all she needs is her hair tied back in a simple ponytail.

Cate Blanchett

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Cate isn't hyper-groomed here, but I have to say,her tousled hair, fresh skin and jet-black mascara combo look really good to me. We're so used to her formality on the red carpet that I appreciate seeing her more casually styled. Pretty pink lips also! She does have roots—but it looks like she got those touched up the next day for the Oscars. 

Brie Larson

It's a little matchy-matchy, but Brie just looks so frickin' radiant. Clearly, she's been on the "going to win an Oscar" skin regimen. The complexion and brow work here are just flawless. I even like the textured updo. Damn, she looks good! 

Rachel McAdams

Rachel looks cute in this baby pink lipstick with matching blush. I'm actually most excited that she wore it with red, which is unexpected. The half-up bob is adorable, and finally, her lashes look pretty decent. I'm just not crazy about her streaky, rooty, too-light blonde, but I've said that a few times now.

Jessica Chastain

I've never seen Jessica's hair look bad. Her skin is flawless, the rosy lipstick is nice and gone are the drawn-on brows of 2015 (thank goodness). The only thing I'd change is perhaps adding some blush, and cleaning up the eyeshadow under her eyes.

Rooney Mara

And you guys said Rooney is always the same! I present you a little faux bang to switch things up. Okay fine, not much else is different, but I ask you: how can you get tired of seeing skin that is literally without a flaw? And such minimal, delicate makeup? Rooney4eva!