The 13 most radical celebrity style evolutions, from tacky teens to red carpet A-list

By Renée Tse

Date July 22, 2014

Copy link

See the best celebrity style evolutions »

Rarely is there a time when an A-list star’s style does not get more refined with age. Sure, they have stylists to thank, but it’s still pretty amazing to see what a few years can do to a celebrity’s personal style. Goodbye “what was she thinking,” hello “why can’t I have her closet!” We may have already mentioned Nicole Richie’s cringe-worthy outfits, as well as Victoria Beckham‘s glorious matching ensembles with hubby David, but we decided to round up 13 more of our favourite celebrity style evolutions, from country princess-turned-glamour girl Taylor Swift to fashion icon Rihanna, because who doesn’t get a kick out of some good ole’ fashion throwbacks from time to time. Hungry for more style evolutions? Head over to our celeb style galleries where we take an intensive look back and highlight the best of Jennifer Lawrence and Kristen Stewart.

From full-on Goth to Hollywood’s most elegant matriarch, Angelina Jolie may take the title for the most drastic change when it comes to personal style. In less than a decade, the Oscar-winning actress has gone from vampire-inspired outfits and a vial of blood as an accessory choice to demure suits and floor-length gowns, albeit in her favourite shade: black.

While style evolutions may usually be found with more mature actresses, young gen actresses too deserve a place on this list. Goodbye to tacky dresses (sequins and feathered boas?), stars like Chloe Grace Moretz and Emma Watson who have grown out of their awkward teen fashion phases and are effortlessly topping the best-dressed lists, outfit after outfit.

And then there is Kim Kardashian, who possibly has Kanye to thank. In a matter of four years, the reality TV star has replaced her infamous bodycon dresses to high fashion outfits, with Riccardo Tisci and Olivier Rousteing on speed dial, no doubt.