When it comes to fashion flavour, the annual BET Awards that celebrate African Americans in music and other fields are usually hard to beat.

And this year's edition, held in Los Angeles on June 30, served it up in spades.

Whether on the red carpet or on stage, these femme fatales of American R&B, hip hop and rap were dressed to impress.

1. Even though I'm hardly surprised any more by Janelle Monae's signature androgynous style and pompadour hairdo, it's hard to nitpick when she always looks this impeccable.

The 27-year-old singer-songwriter rocked a classy white Dolce & Gabbana pantsuit, but what really brought the look together was how she coordinated her dazzling neck candy with those silver Jimmy Choo strappy sandals.

Monae closed the awards with her new song Q.U.E.E.N., which just about sums up how I feel about her.

2. Those of you who read this column regularly would know that I'd never let an opportunity go by without slamming whatever Trinidad-born US rapper Nicki Minaj, 30, puts on.

But it's hard to find fault with the best female hip hop artist winner, who looked downright normal in her black Roberto Cavalli halterneck lace gown featuring plunging neckline and shredded leather panels at the waist.

Then again, Minaj wouldn't be Minaj without something a little dodgy. Here, it's that platinum blonde hair with black roots showing.

Now if only she'd learn how to contain her epic cleavage, her makeover would be complete.

3. Talk about giving the competition a run for their money.

Sexy Ciara's popping and locking performance of her latest tracks I'm Out and Body Party saw her decked out in an unbuttoned Topshop sheer long-sleeve blouse worn over a black bra top and matching sweatpants, which featured dollar bill prints.

It's over the top, but totally right for the occasion.

The 27-year-old singer could've done better than those checked black and white high-top sneakers though.

4. As the diva of the night, Mariah Carey was in rare form while belting out #Beautiful as she truly lived up to the title of her latest single.

The 43-year-old powerhouse, who usually opts for questionable, ill-fitting outfits, got it right in this glittering, glamorous Pavoni by Mikael D white strapless bustier gown with sheer silver embroidered netted skirt that flattered her full figure.

The extravagant bling provided the perfect finishing touches.

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