Fashion
America Ferrera’s Red Carpet Evolution, From Traveling Pants to Total Fashionista
She may have gotten her big break nearly 10 years ago with her starring role in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, but it wasn’t until recently that former Ugly Betty star America Ferrera has really come into her own on the red carpet. Embracing her gorgeous looks and learning how to work her enviable curves, the Cesar Chavez actress has been in the spotlight quite a bit lately, showing off her ever-improving eye and elegant sense of style. But Ferrera’s road to fashion greatness hasn’t always been so smooth. Take a look at 10 of the stars most memorable red-carpet moments to see just how far she’s come.
At 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' Premier in Los Angeles
Ferrera didn’t get off to the best red-carpet start in 2005. Promoting her teen flick The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants at the film’s Los Angeles premiere., she opted for a shapeless green frock.
At the 2008 ALMA Awards
Within just a few years, Ferrera’s style improved dramatically. She rocked this adorable, striped Diane von Furstenberg number at the 2008 ALMA Awards. Though it’s hard to make such a busy pattern, voluminous skirt, and horizontal stripes look great all at once, Ferrera pulled it off with ease.
At an 'Ugly Betty' Premiere Event in 2008
We love a good floral dress — especially for spring — and the Ugly Betty star showed us how to wear the timeless look the right way: in a flattering, feminine cut and with minimal accessories.
At the 2009 Golden Globes
Sadly, Ferrera took a wrong turn during the 2009 awards-show season, picking a taupe Oscar de la Renta gown that was too heavy for her petite frame (and a tad boring).
At the 2009 Screen Actors Guild Awards
The actress picked a similar shade for the 2009 SAG Awards, washing out her beautiful olive skin tone. The dress itself — from Vera Wang — wasn’t terrible, but it would have been more flattering without all the tulle detailing on the bodice.
At a 'How to Train Your Dragon' Premiere
We give Ferrera props for attempting to show off her gorgeous body in a strapless Milly jumpsuit, but the slouchy pants and eye-catching gold belt didn’t do her figure any favors.
At a 2010 Movie Premiere in NYC
Ferrera rarely shows off so much skin, but she took a risk at the New York premiere of My Family Wedding in a sparkling, bubble-skirt dress. The look was sassy and flattering and totally paid off.
At the 2012 ALMA Awards
Ferrera looked more high fashion than ever in a caped, sweetheart-neckline dress from designer Carlos Miele. From the color and draping to the soft hair and makeup, this ensemble was flawless.
At the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival
Ferrera gave her look some edge when she donned this curve-hugging, cutout, embellished-sleeved Badgley Mischka dress at the annual Toronto Film Festival. Complementing the sleek look with swept-back locks, statement gold heels, and a boxy red clutch, Ferrera proved that she was really coming into her own on the red carpet.
At a 'Cesar Chavez' Premiere in Los Angeles
Ferrera’s most recent look may be one of her best yet — and an indication of what’s to come, we hope. Her Sportmax dress combined a soft, stunning hue, a stylish sheer panel and a perfect fit, and those color-drenched heels were the ultimate finishing touch.
