Carrie Underwood looks so different in must-see throwback photos as she turns 42

Carrie had a youthful glow of excitement while she competed on American Idol, and her casual yet sweet style endeared her to millions of viewers.

The star sported her instantly recognizable blonde locks swept to the side at Fashion Week in 2006, with her stacked necklaces and icy eyeshadow epitomizing ’00s fashion.

Carrie started sweeping awards season with her incredible tunes, while she elevated her look from small-town to fashion girl.

She was a bronzed beauty at the 2008 CMA Awards, donning a bright yellow gown with a plunging neckline that showcased her diamond necklace. Her blonde hair was worn in a half-up, half-down style that elevated her elegant style.

The Grammy winner showcased her Barbie-chic look at the AMAs, wearing her hair in a blonde bob that touched her shoulders and a nude lip to complete the look. Her sparkly beige one-shoulder dress stole the show while she added dangly earrings and a bold statement belt.  

Carrie opted for a flirty and fun look at the American Country Awards, wearing a strapless dress with a corset-style bust and a flared skirt that hit her mid-thigh. Her hair was pulled into an elegant updo and her makeup was glam yet simple.

The “Before He Cheats” singer showcased her baby bump at an award show mere months before she gave birth to her eldest son, Isaiah, whom she shares with her husband, Mike Fisher.

Carrie elevated her look in a stunning pink gown at the CMA Awards, opting to wear her blonde hair down in chic waves that just touched her shoulders.

The mom of two looked so different at the AMAs in 2019, with her dramatic yet glamorous makeup and plunging purple sequinned gown that showcased her lithe figure. Her typically wavy blonde hair was worn straight and Carrie opted for a nude lip to complete the look.

Once again, Carrie stepped up her fashion game and chose a peach lip to offset her eye-catching silver gown. She looked ageless in the sheer dress and added bold diamond earrings to complete the look.

Carrie’s long blonde hair was the star of the show as she performed at Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Her sparkly silver outfit was the perfect choice for the celebration and showcased her lithe figure.