We need to talk about Jennifer Lawrence’s early red carpet appearances (because they are perfection)

We look to Jennifer Lawrence as a sort of handbook on how celebs should behave. Her charm, her wit, even the movie roles she takes add to her undeniable charisma. She’s handled a leaked photo scandal with grace and pride as well as a few award snubs, and as far back as we can remember she’s always brought Hollywood glam to the red carpet. But what about back before we can remember? You know, like Winter’s Bone-era Jennifer Lawrence, when she was nominated in 2010 and juuust beginning to get recognized as a big-time talent wrapped in girl-next-door packaging. Thankfully, there’s the internet, and people whose jobs it is to document the very first time celebs like JLaw ever stepped a Target-brand ballerina flat on the red carpet.

Let’s do a little lighthearted star-stalking, shall we?

Here’s Jennifer at the 15th Annual Movieguide Faith and Values Awards in 2007. Jen was just starting out, starring in small TV roles in shows like Medium and Monk. Lawrence is just 17 in this pic, and look how happy she is to be at a real official event! The kitten heels and updo serve some major Sweet 16-party realness. RIP the 2000s!

Um, can we talk about the flower head-wrap? This pic is from 2008, when JLaw attended the 6th Annual Teen Vogue Young Hollywood Party in Los Angeles, but it could easily be from today. In fact, we’re pretty sure Forever 21 is still selling hair accessories like these today. Peep those peep-toes, this asymmetrical shift dress and contrasting clutch. Somebody’s feeling herself.

Okay, the magic is starting to happen. This is 2010, at the 14th Annual Hollywood Awards Gala held at The Beverly Hilton hotel. Jennifer is giving us some major Ariel-wrapped-in-a-sheet vibes here, and we are loving it. The smolder is coming along nicely.

The year is 2011, the place: Palm Springs. Here comes JLaw in a dress that subtly nods to her X-Men: First Class character Mystique, the role that arguably won her the breakout role of Katniss Everdeen.

Another 2011 look, but a classic. Remember this Jessica Rabbit inspired slinky red gown? This was at the Academy Awards the year she filmed the stellar Silver Linings Playbook, although the film wouldn’t be out for another year. You’re looking at a “I made out with Bradley Cooper last week” glow, ladies and gents.

Cut to 2013, a brunette Jen attends the 39th Annual People’s Choice Awards in a questionable number consisting of black sequins and a drop shoulder. We’re all about a little sparkle in front of the camera, but what’s with the glittery espadrilles? This isn’t too long ago, so maybe we could still ask her what the thought process was with this one.

And finally, last year at the The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 premiere in Los Angeles. Jen’s summery pixie is growing out, and she stuns in yet another all-white (a trend, we think) gown with some gold embellishment. Jennifer Lawrence reminds us that confidence is all you need to rock whatever look you’re feeling at the moment …even if it’s metallic blue and kitten heels.