In honor of Jennifer Hudson’s 31st birthday, we take a look back at her style evolution from American Idol cast-off to Hollywood starlet.

Back in 2004, J Hud was still an unknown singer from Chicago, Illinois. While on Idol, the singer seemed concerned with hiding her curves in lots of fabric. 

(Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

By 2006, though she was strutting the red carpet and making all the heads turn. In this Grecian-inspired white gown she even gives her Dream Girls co-star Beyoncé a run for her money.

(Evan Agostini/Getty Images)

Though the verdict’s out whether her Oscar outfit from 2007 was a yay or a nay, one thing we do know is she was making people notice her with a win for Best Supporting Actress.

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By 2010, J Hud got serious about getting healthy. The starlet joined Weight Watchers after giving birth to her son, David Jr., in August 2009 and eventually dropped 80 pounds. By 2011, she was ready to stand out, choosing to wear a tangerine Versace gown to the 83^rd Annual Academy Awards. 

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No longer is she covering up her body, but is showing it off. At the Think Like a Man premiere earlier this year she highlighted her long legs in a pleated mini skirt and made an even bigger statement with an oversized electric blue necklace and matching heels.

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On September 7, she looked sexy and confident in a sleek turquoise suit and bright orange lips on the runway for an upcoming episode of Project Runway.

(Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz)

 
What do you think of J Hud’s new look?

- Shannon Carlin, CBS Local