From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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Sometimes it's hard to believe that the first time we heard about Solange, she was introduced to us as quote-unquote "Beyoncé's kid sister." True, the Knowles are definitely a family — supporting one another, appearing in pictures together frequently, and both carrying themselves with a unique sense of grace. Yet, remembering that Solange used to be billed as "the sister of Beyoncé" in our cultural perception is astounding to us, especially since, in the last few years, girl has delivered on the red carpet (and in our headphones, too — but that's a different story). Yet, she has had a true evolution, from the tween tagalong of her big sis, to an emerging but fascinating singer, to a recognized songstress and a true style professional. Here's to the second, but no less beloved, Knowles sister.

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From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2001
Okay, okay, remember: It's 2001 and style was a bit weird, then. And for anyone who has ever been a 14-year-old kid sister, things are awkward — especially when your sibling is a) Beyoncé and b) taking you to the paparazzi-crazed BET awards. The camo, the exposed navel, and the glittery cropped top are so aughts — but we can all agree, those braids are pretty kickin'.

Photo: Al Tumo/Rex USA.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2006
While the super-tight Leger-esque bodycon dress is usually the realm of Kelly Rowland, it actually looks like Solange took a page from her sister's bandmate. Also, here she is doing something particularly rare for her now: Showing off her gams, which are nearly as toned as her sis's. While we have to say that we love Solange's more natural hair, seeing her with extensions is quite the surprise.

Photo: Matt Baron/BEImages.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2008
True, this isn't the Solange we've come to know...yet, here the young singer demonstrates her willingness to think outside the box. Her earlier incarnations were more colorful, but this plays with texture and proportions. It is, however, a hair coat — which is always a risk, even if it's Chanel.

Patrick Rideaux/Rex USA.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2010
Ah, now this is the beginning of the Solange we know (and love!) today, with her confidant pose, patterned and dyed fabrics, and unique red-carpet choices. Though, there are a couple missteps — the bra-strap, for one — no longer is this just Bey's lil' sis.

Photo: Jim Smeal/BEImages.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2011
The black-and-white head wrap returns, but gone are the days of pumps and leather pants. Her Opening Ceremony offerings show a young style star beginning to explore the depths of fashion — in a casual, but completely cool way.

Photo: Everett Collection/Rex USA.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2012
There might not be a more classic Solange-style outfit: Well-tailored pants, bright colors, prints, and a killer lip. The more natural and voluminous hair is present, too — and we're just loving the perfectly coordinated Just Cavalli suit she's rocking. So Solange.

Photo: Everett Collection/Rex USA.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2013
"Oh, this? I just rolled out of bed, threw on this beautiful Derek Lam shift, dabbed on some tangerine lipstick, and called it. It's just how I do." — What Solange is saying, in our heads, always.

Photo: Matt Baron/BEImages.

From Kid Sis To A Red-Carpet Powerhouse, A Look Back At Solange

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2013
When you look at her face, you can totally see the Knowles resemblance between the two sisters, but it's safe to say that each woman has her own totally articulated and fully realized sense of style. Solange is Drop. Dead. Gorgeous in Emilio Pucci during the Vanity Fair Academy Awards' party, and consistently brings energy, originality, and color to the often uninspired world of red-carpet dressing. Can't wait to see what the next ten years brings.

David Fisher/Rex/Rex USA.