17 photos that show how Kelly Clarkson's style has changed since her 'American Idol' days

In 2002, Kelly Clarkson stepped into the spotlight as the winner of American Idol, and her fashion journey began. She made her debut at the Swimfan premiere in 2002, sporting a strapless tie-dye dress over bootcut jeans, platform sandals, a statement pendant, and a red newsboy cap. Throughout 2003, she embraced little black dresses, including one with a knee-length skirt and bustier bodice worn at the Billboard Music Awards in 2003.

In 2004, Clarkson continued to dress in fashionable little black dresses at the American Music Awards, as well as various versions of the staple. Her 2004 look included a strapless dress, pointed pumps, and long diamond earrings. The following year, 2005, was characterized by punk-rock outfits as Clarkson performed on stage in torn band T-shirts, low-rise jeans, and either sandals or sneakers. She performed at the Wango Tango concert in 2005 with a Rolling Stones top, low-rise pants, and a studded belt.

Throughout the years, Clarkson has experimented with various styles, including minidresses, gowns, and bold prints. In 2006, she stunned at the Grammy Awards in a black Max Azria gown and in 2007, she debuted an olive-toned shift dress with a beaded neckline and bubble skirt at the ASCAP Pop Music Awards. In 2009 and the early 2010s, she sparkled in a sleeveless CD Greene design at the American Music Awards, accessorizing with fishnet tights, black pumps, and a crimped red hairstyle.

In 2012, Clarkson returned to her rock roots, performing while wearing band T-shirts and skinny jeans on stage. She also wore a lot of red throughout 2013, particularly during his Christmas album Wrapped in Red. By 2015, her fashion was full of bold prints, including a knee-length skirt printed with images of vinyl records and gold sandals. In 2016, Clarkson opted for chic black minidresses, sheer tights, and pointed pumps, similar to her appearance on Extra that year.

By 2019, Clarkson embraced a more fun and adventurous approach to her red-carpet outfits. At the UglyDolls premiere, she wore a hot-pink gown designed by Christian Siriano, which featured large shoulder pads, fringe, and was likely inspired by the pink UglyDolls character she voiced for the film. In the 2020s, Clarkson has found her signature style, which is a mix of glamour and rock 'n' roll, as seen at the 2020 Billboard Music Awards in a silver gown with large shoulder pads and fringe.