(Celebrity)

Anne Hathaway’s Beauty Evolution Proves She’s Always Been Hollywood Royalty

A journey through her best looks.

by Amanda Ross
Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis Entertainment/Getty Images

Anne Hathaway, the people’s princess. The Disney-girl-turned-Oscar-winner and her penchant for natural beauty have ruled since the early ‘00s. Though she often experiments, Anne Hathaway’s beauty evolution is a testament to her vision — she knows what she likes and what withstands the test of time.

picture alliance/picture alliance/Getty Images

To put this fresh-faced photo into perspective, Hathaway is at the release party for Britney Spears’ third record in 2001 — as if the coral lipgloss, shiny center part, and matching skinny scarf didn’t already give the era away. Evan Agostini/Getty Images Entertainment
2004 for a major year for Hathaway, arguably her breakthrough year as a major celebrity thanks to the success of the Princes Diaries sequel and fellow fairytale film Ella Enchanted. Hathaway looks every bit the luminous young star in bright red lipstick and lush, side-parted waves.Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic/Getty Images
When Hathaway was ready to leave the younger films behind, her entire aesthetic evolved. Favoring more sophisticated, adult styles (like this pulled-back blowout) and neutral makeup, she’s the proverbial girl next door at the Devil Wears Prada premiere in 2006.Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis Entertainment/Getty Images
By 2008, the world had a true appreciation for Hathaway’s range, both in her acting ability and personal style. To suit her edgy slate of films that showed off her dramatic side, she chopped her long brunette waves in favor of a tousled bob — and it perfectly suits her dark, smoky eyes.Patrick McMullan/Patrick McMullan/Getty Images
Few celebrities can effortlessly channel retro and vintage beauty motifs the way Hathaway can, and it’s always a treat to see her go for something major. At the 2009 Met Gala, she opted for va-va-volume in her big, ‘60s blowout, complete with sultry smoky eyeshadow.Patrick McMullan/Patrick McMullan/Getty Images
Hathaway loves to tweak her natural deep brunette hair color with subtle changes, like the face-framing, illuminating highlights she wore to the 2011 Oscars. The warm caramel streaks are a summery, upbeat touch.Ian West - PA Images/PA Images/Getty Images
Hathaway’s shaved head in Les Miserables (2012) was nearly as big a draw as the film itself. To prove her commitment to the role, she physically transformed into the downtrodden Fantine, complete with a buzzcut. In the process of growing it out, Hathaway’s piece-y pixie became legendary.Anthony Harvey/Getty Images Entertainment
Hathaway’s glamour grew even more refined through her pregnancy, which saw plenty of opulent beauty touches to complement her glowing skin and growing belly. Her goddess-like rope braid and moody, gilded makeup are the ultimate in fall/winter beauty.Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic/Getty Images
Hair color — even subtle shade changes — can be utterly transformative, and there’s no better example than Hathaway. For 2019’s Modern Love series, she star added a brilliant red tint to her thick mane, warming up her complexion with cozy coppers.James Devaney/Getty Images
Just a year later, Hathaway’s turn toward a darker, more cool-toned brunette is equally striking. Against her fair, creamy skin and pop of bubblegum-pink lipstick, the effect is nearly mod.Owen Hoffmann/Getty Images Entertainment
You might call Hathaway’s look at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival her ultimate look. All the pieces are here: fresh, dewy makeup, thick waves, and just enough trendiness thanks to her subtle curtain bangs.Mike Marsland/WireImage/Getty Images