10 Must-See Photos of Carrie Underwood’s Hair Transformation Since ‘American Idol’

It might have been her voice that hooked us, but we’re just as enamored with country superstar Carrie Underwood’s hairstyles since she first won the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. After all, Carrie Underwood’s hair is unquestionably one of her best features — not only is it healthy, full, and shiny, but it’s also looks gorgeous with a variety of cuts, colors and styles.

Carrie Underwood’s hairstyles have ranged from super curly locks to sleek straight tresses to flowing waves and she’s sported a variety of lengths, bangs and layers. She’s also bravely opened up about opting for going for the big “chop” when she needs to keep things simple. “When my hair is shorter, it’s easier to fix, which was the whole point,” Underwood revealed to Elle magazine back in 2016. “Cutting my hair was a ‘mom’ move.”

No matter what style Underwood chooses, it’s clear she’s not afraid to step outside of her comfort zone when she needs a change of pace. And one thing’s for sure: Carrie Underwood’s hair is sure to keep fans and followers on their toes – we’re never sure what fabulous look she’ll debut next!

Here, we gathered a sampling of photos that showcase Carrie Underwood’s hair over the years — which look is your favorite?

1. Crimped waves (2005)

In 2005, Underwood went on American Idol and won! During her time on the show, she sported long blonde hair that was either crimped (like the photo above) or slick straight.

2. Loose curls and loads of volume (2007)

Post American Idol, the singer tended to style her long blonde hair in much looser and volumized waves, proving just how much of a country girl she is!

3. Rocking layers and swing bangs (2008)

In 2008, Underwood stepped out into the world with some fun and flirty side bangs, and we are obsessed! She kept them for quite a while as well, meaning she loved them too.

4. A fresh and flirty chop (2010

After ditching the side bangs, the Grammy winner cut off a good 10 inches of her hair and went for more of a yellow blonde than before. Very country chic, in our opinion!

5. Full-on fringe (2011)

While letting her hair grow out, Carrie decided to do a full set of bangs as well! And while she only kept them for a little bit, we love them on her!

6. Country curly (2012)

In 2012 the singer went back to her hair roots: big, blonde, and beautiful. This time, though, she went for much more of an icy blonde.

7. A bouncy bob (2016)

After four years of long hair, Underwood chopped it all off and debuted what she called “her mom haircut.” She only sported this look for a little while, preferring her long locks, but we still love this look!

8. Long and luscious (2018)

Post her self proclaimed “mom haircut,” the singer decided to go back to her long blonde hair. And while she might have used extensions, we certainly can’t tell!

9. Sassy and straight (2022)

As much as we love Carrie’s curly hair, we sure do have a soft spot for this look. The singer certainly shines here, with her long, icy blonde hair looking better than ever!

10. Buttery blonde layers (2023)

Recently, Underwood has kept her hair nice and long. But instead of the icy blonde we saw years prior, she decided to go back to more of a dirty blonde, and it was no surprise to anyone that she looked amazing! And we cannot wait to see what she does next!

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For more celebrity hair inspiration, click through the links below!

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