23 Throwback Pics That Show Beyonce's Rise From Teen to Style Queen
No one can deny that Queen Bey knows how to slay. Hell, we didn't commonly use the word "slay" to describe someone stylishly achieving success before Beyonce even came along.
But, while she is undeniably a Queen now, there once was a time when Beyonce was ... a little more like us common people. She had some fashion missteps, you might say ... some growing pains of a young woman adjusting to life in the spotlight while searching for her signature look. Of course, those growing pains make us love her even more. Seriously, we even wanted to be her as she was navigating through her early stages of success.
Over the years, Bey has rocked the gamut of hairstyles, makeup trends, and fashion stunners. Here's a look back at her evolving style, from her early days as a pop singer with Destiny's Child up to the glorious diva we all know now.
Image via iStock.com/Steve Finn
Throw (Way, Way) Back
For the 2001 Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards, the ladies of Destiny's Child wore matching lace and rhinestone-detailed ensembles in cuts that seemed to draw inspiration from several different time periods.
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Independent (but Color-Coordinated) Women
By 2001, Destiny's Child had been pared down from a foursome to a trio -- with one new addition: Michelle Williams. This third and final lineup of singers is the most well-known -- not least for their coordinated fashion choices!
The 2000s Are Calling...
... and they want their Abercrombie & Fitch hoodie back! Armed with a flip phone and low-waisted jeans, Beyonce embodies the early aughts in this pic from 2002.
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Itty Bitty Polka Dot Tankini
Beyonce went with a black-and-white midriff-baring outfit when she performed for the Today show in 2003. Wonder if she's still got those hot pink bangles in her jewelry box?
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Sweet Shimmer
How adorable is this headshot of Beyonce from 2003? She's absolutely glowing! This one is a keeper.
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Straight Hair, Don't Care
Beyonce was seldom spotted without her trademark long, blond waves. Seen here in 2007, she's rocking a darker, straightened style for a change.
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Got Beyonce?
Beyonce developed such a strong signature style that top brands fought for her to rep them -- including American Express, DirecTV, L'Oréal, and Pepsi. These days she's not shilling anyone's products but her own.
Activewear Trendsetter
Beyonce knew the comfort and style of athleisure wear long before she launched Ivy Park. In 2007 she matched House of Dereon with heels and hoop earrings to create a style all her own.
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Triple Platinum
Beyonce went for a golden blonde hair color at the 2010 Grammy Awards -- and appropriately so. She racked up six Grammys that night -- setting the record for the most won by any female artist at a single event.
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