For the 2022 BET Awards [1] in Los Angeles, celebrities went big and bold with their red carpet looks. Despite the scorching summer temperatures, many of Black entertainment's biggest stars — from Billy Porter [2] to Lizzo [3] — stepped out in lavish, long-sleeved ensembles that featured show-stopping design elements. Others, however, opted for more minimalist pieces, like host Taraji P. Henson, who wore a sparkly gunmetal one-shoulder gown accented with a large chain-link necklace that draped along her back.
Lizzo [4] — who is set to perform at the show tonight and won the BET Award for best female R&B/pop artist back in 2020 — arrived wearing a floor-sweeping navy-blue lurex gown with feather accents on the sleeves and hemline, a dazzling shimmer effect on the fabric, and a thigh-high slit. She completed the look with peep-toe platform pumps.
In addition to Henson and Lizzo [5], celebrities like Chloe Bailey, Marsai Martin [6], and Victoria Monét went with their own interpretations of glittery, highly embellished looks.
On the casual end of the style spectrum, performer Jack Harlow made a statement with his red carpet choice: a Lil Nas X T-shirt, showing his support for the 23-year-old hip-hop artist who has spoken out about being snubbed by the BET Awards [7].
Ready for more memorable fashion moments from the 2022 BET Awards red carpet? Keep scrolling for all the best celebrity looks.
Lizzo at the 2022 BET Awards
Lizzo [9] wore a custom Gucci navy-blue lurex dress with a deep neckline and flared sleeve details, topped off with black feather trim and a lace corset. Black leather platform heels completed her look.
Billy Porter at the 2022 BET Awards
Billy Porter [10] arrived on the red carpet wearing a Rick Owens ensemble that included a gray crewneck knit top with bell sleeves and sharp, pointed shoulders, along with a matching skirt and train. On the footwear front, he opted for platform boots in the same muted hue.
Jack Harlow at the 2022 BET Awards
Jack Harlow [10], who released "Industry Baby" [11] with Lil Nas X last year, wore a black graphic tee screen-printed with images of the rapper. Black pants with a chain detail and black shoes (both by Givenchy) rounded out his ensemble.
Chlöe at the 2022 BET Awards
Chlöe stepped out in a black gown by Nicolas Jebran that featured architectural cutouts along the chest and sequin embellishments throughout.
Janelle Monáe at the 2022 BET Awards
Janelle Monáe stunned in a sheer Roberto Cavalli number anchored by a floral appliqué and leather strap details.
Halle at the 2022 BET Awards
Halle also embraced the 2000s-inspired cutouts trend, opting for a strapless Monot column gown with a plunging neckline and cutouts at the hip.
Mary J. Blige at the 2022 BET Awards
Styled by Jason Rembert, Mary J. Blige walked the red carpet in a white two-piece set by Tony Ward Couture and jewels by Pristine Jewelers.
Marsai Martin at the 2022 BET Awards
The "Black-ish [12]" star wore a silvery fringed dress and matching heels.
Big Freedia at the 2022 BET Awards
Styled by Cosmo and Donato, Big Freedia wore a shiny pink ruffled gown with dramatic sleeves and a rainbow corset. Earrings that spelled out "QUEEN" added the finishing touch.
Victoria Monét at the 2022 BET Awards
Victoria Monét wore a copper-colored gown by Magda Butrym that featured all-over sequins and floral appliqués at the bust.