15 of Kelly Clarkson’s American Idol looks, ranked by ’00s-ness

Black and burgundy reign supreme again when Kelly Clarkson sang “You’re All I Need.” Seriously, can someone tell this woman that she looks beautiful in yellow? It’s a safe bet that back in 2002, Kelly’s closet was a safe and comforting sea of black and reds.

Kelly came out wearing one of her most dramatic looks on stage. On top, she wore a black corset that was trimmed with burgundy. The form fitting piece had sheer black sleeves and a sheer panel across her chest, showing off just a bit of cleavage. She paired that with a long black skirt that had a thigh high, ruffled slit to show off much of her left leg.

When it came to hair, Kelly Clarkson played it safe, or at least comfortable. She opted for that same messy updo that we’ve talked about so many times. Her hair alone is very telling of what decade she won American Idol.

Kelly looked edgy and sexy but still managed to keep everything important covered. She’s always been able to pull off some rather daring looks without going too far.

When Kelly hit American Idol’s first top 10, she chose to sing the Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell for Motown Night. Despite some fierce competition from second place finisher Justin Guarini who sang “For Once In My Life” as well as A.J. Gill’s version of “My Cherie Amour.” Kelly was clearly the one to beat and as we all know, no one did.