Everybody wants this glow-up! Leighton Meester and Adam Brody turned heads at the 2025 Emmy Awards at Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California on Sept. 14, but before the couple hit the red carpet, they indulged in pre-show rituals that set the tone for the night.
Celebrity makeup artist Bethany McCarty and groomer Kim Verbeck shared all the behind-the-scenes details on the pair’s prep with ET, which was equal parts fun and equal parts glam.
Before the actor and actress slipped into their coordinating Prada ensembles, with Brody in a pale blue suit and Meester in a baby pink gown, the beauty pros perfected radiant looks for the duo.
“With Leighton, we used the Bubble cleanser, layered serums, cream, and eye cream for a fresh, dewy base,” McCarty explains. …If we have time, I’ll do some light lymphatic drainage massage while applying cream to de-puff and wake up circulation. If not, I keep the application gentle but intentional.”
For Brody, the approach was just as thoughtful. “I always like to start with the cleanest skin possible and then move into the most moisturized,” Verbeck shares. “After applying the Enhanse Super Moisture, I use a couple massage techniques to get rid of tension and add some lymphatic drainage.”
Their meticulous pre-show routines ensured both stars shined on and off camera.
“Good skin prep is everything. It keeps makeup seamless, fresh, and youthful without any heaviness or creasing,” McCarty says. “The better the skin looks, the less makeup you need.”
Verbeck adds, “The entire grooming process is usually around 30-40 minutes and ultimately, I get the skin to a matte finish for the event.”
Once their luminous skin was set, the Gossip Girl went on to fully embrace a retro prom aesthetic.
“Leighton’s ’60s inspired gown alongside Adam’s tux led us to a classic cat eye, rosy cheeks, a matte lip, a hint of shimmer to echo her dress, and a soft nod to Brigitte Bardot with her hair,” McCarty shares.
And the energy in the room was just as vibrant as their get-ups.
“It’s always a fun vibe with our whole crew,” Verbeck dishes. “There’s always music playing and we’re all making each other laugh and having good conversation.”
McCarty continues, “It honestly feels like playing dress-up with a friend. We have at least one major laughing attack, catch up about life and our kids, and just have fun.”
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