In the world of beauty, looks range from the classic to the cutting edge. And while the latter tends to get more press, the former is just as deserving of attention. Jennifer Aniston is one celebrity who embraces her signature style—minimal makeup and layered, dirty blonde tresses—and as a result, has established herself as a beauty icon. She knows what works and is the reason why girl-next-door beauty remains relevant, fresh, and covetable.
Of course, the Golden Globe winner boasts an impressive career, one that has kept her in the spotlight since the late ’80s. You can see the influences of changing trends over the decades in both her hair and makeup choices, if only minimally. Her looks have always been made with intention and purpose to cultivate a personal style that is uniquely her own. Hairstylists Chris McMillan and Richard Marin join makeup artists Robin Siegel and Angela Levin in breaking down the Friends alum’s beauty DNA. Below, find 37 of Jennifer Aniston’s most memorable looks over the years.
Natural Brunette
The natural brunette (and natural beauty) graduated from New York City’s LaGuardia High School of Music and Art in the late ’80s. Her less-is-more approach to beauty also applied to her personal style, even when she was just a teen.
Aniston landed roles in Molloy and Ferris Bueller as a young 20-something. With her long brown hair and fresh face, her style was classic girl next door. This vibe is also quintessential ’90s, with its side part and baby-like bangs.
Classic ’90s
For the Leprechaun premiere, the actress wore her mahogany locks in long layers and sported ultra-’90s brick lipstick. Peep the dainty pearl earrings and matching necklace.
Fresh and Wavy
The wavy-haired star got her breakout role as Rachel Green on Friends. Her pencil-thin brows were super on-trend—and maybe still are.
The Original Rachel
The cut that launched a thousand layers! “This was the original Rachel, with layered shoulder-length hair,” says McMillan. What’s definitely still in is the Murder Mystery co-star’s no-makeup makeup beat.
I ‘Do What I Want
A newly-minted movie star with ‘Til There Was You and Picture Perfect, Aniston brought the focus to her bright blue eyes with smudged liner and an understated updo. The blonde highlights also help to frame her face beautifully.
Li’l Blondie
Don’t Get It Twisted
The Office Space star tried wild-child beachy hair for the Emmy Awards. “Jen’s adventurous side—she did this look once and never went there again,” says Siegel.
Li’l Blondie
“The one and only time I cut her hair short,” McMillan said of this wavy bob. “She wanted to do something different.” And it paid off; the short layers help accentuate the Horrible Bosses co-star’s eyes and cheekbones.
I Don’t Mean to Be Blunt
For the People’s Choice Awards, the Rock Star actress wore her sleek cut straight. Blunt ends, a deep side part, and dark roots add some weight to fine tresses. The high shine of her glossy strands is also noteworthy.
Sunkissed
One thing you’re always going to get from Jennifer Aniston is an unapologetic look. With a classic haircut and minimal makeup, the A-lister looks stunning—as always.
