Paula Abdul's Changing Looks

By Instyle
Updated Jun 16, 2014 @ 4:03 pm
Credit: Mark Davis/Getty Images

Paula Abdul's Changing Looks

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1 of 19

1980

Credit: Yearbook Library

The trendy bowl cut-sporting Van Nuys High School cheerleader turned pro when she was hired as a Lakers Girl.

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1986

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She wore some seriously big hair to celebrate Janet Jackson's double-platinum album. Abdul choreographed and danced in the superstar's "Nasty" video.

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1988

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Abdul broke out with tousled layers and her hit album Forever Your Girl.

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1990

Credit: Jim Smeal/WireImage

She wore a cheerleader-friendly top ponytail to pick up her second Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Choreography.

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1991

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For the American Music Awards, Abdul wore a serpent-themed getup and loose locks.

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1991

Credit: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

Her look to launch Spellbound was pure '60s mod-white shadow and a glossy flip.

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7 of 19

1992

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Mrs. Emilio Estevez made a showing at the MTV Video Music Awards with rocker-chick feathered bangs.

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1996

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For the American Music Awards, she played up her golden complexion with matching highlights in her angled crop.

9 of 19

2000

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She went romantic for the Fire and Ice Ball with a curly updo and shimmery pink lipstick.

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10 of 19

2003

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The newly-minted American Idol judge flaunted eye-catching hot pink lipstick at the American Music Awards.

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2003

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She framed her face with a sleek honey-hued bob.

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2004

Credit: Milan Ryba/Globe Photos

Abdul matched her coral lipstick to her bright blush.

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2005

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For the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, Abdul added a playful floral touch to her pumped-up 'do.

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2006

Credit: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

A stick straight blowout for Comic Relief.

15 of 19

2007

Credit: Steve Granitz/WireImage

She appeared at the Grammy Awards in a soft, modern version of a beehive.

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2008

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For the CMT Music Awards, Abdul had seductive side-swept fringe.

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2009

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The Drop Dead Diva guest star chose a half-updo for the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

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2011

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She entered the Los Angeles auditions for The X Factor looking more glam than ever with long, wavy strands.

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19 of 19

2012

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Abdul hit the season finale of The X Factor with a chic half-updo.

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