She Just Keeps Getting Better and Better

It says a lot about the pop culture–obsessed world we live in that every move a full-blown celebrity and semi-famous face (hello, Real Housewives of every city) makes is not only captured by paparazzi and splashed across our favorite gossip magazines, but that the frenzy only gets fiercer when there’s a major misstep or the slightest scandal involved. (Just look at last week’s Solange and Jay-Z elevator fight for the most recent example.)

And practically nothing — even a star’s very personal struggle with addiction — is off limits. Which is exactly why I find it so rewarding when a celebrity manages to make it through a well-publicized downfall only to emerge on the other side healthier, happier, and stronger than ever.

We’ve seen it before with celebs like Drew Barrymore and Demi Lovato, and — more recently, but perhaps not so fully — with child stars like Lindsay Lohan and Amanda Bynes. And at this year’s Billboard Music Awards, it became clearer than ever that there’s one more star we can gladly add to that list: Kesha.

After entering rehab earlier this year for an eating disorder, the singer has wasted no time getting back on track, delivering some amazing performances, ditching the dollar sign in her name, becoming a judge on a new ABC singing competition, "Rising Star;" and now, stunning on the red carpet at the 2014 Billboard Music Awards.

Making a complete 180 in the style department, Kesha ditched the wacky, Lady Gaga–esque outfits of the past in favor of an ultra-glam, totally sophisticated ensemble that fit her like an absolute dream. With its strapless, bustier cut; hourglass-creating mermaid shape; delicate lace overlay; and dramatic train, the dress was one of the most glamorous of the evening, and easily made Kesha a contender for the night’s best-dressed title.

Keeping it the slightest bit edgy with her pink-tinted hair, bold brows, and subtle smoky eye — all of which she tamed with a casually messy updo, glossy nude lip, and lack of accessories — the ensemble was 100 percent Kesha, but in a new and improved way that I think just about everyone could get used to.

And just look at that smile. The girl seems unbelievably confident and happy, and — amazing outfit aside — that’s all that really matters, right?