AceShowbiz - Julia Roberts has captivated audiences for decades, but a fresh look at her early career reveals a young star blossoming into the icon she is today. A recent collection of 38 rare throwback photos showcases the formative moments of her journey, tracing her path from a fresh-faced newcomer to a Hollywood powerhouse.

The images capture the mid-1980s era when Julia Roberts was still largely recognized as the younger sister of actor Eric Roberts. Back then, she was trying to carve out her own niche in the industry, sporting quintessentially ’80s hairstyles and fashion choices that feel delightfully nostalgic in hindsight. These snapshots include candid street scenes in New York with Eric and early red carpet appearances, where her unmistakable charm was already on display despite less polished looks.

One standout photo from 1989 shows a 21-year-old Julia Roberts at the Independent Spirit Awards. Sporting a sleek black suit and her signature curls, she exuded a confident glow that hinted at the star she was becoming. This nomination came just after she had begun work on the drama Steel Magnolias, a film that helped cement her status as a rising Hollywood sweetheart.

The collection also includes intimate behind-the-scenes moments, such as Julia Roberts sharing laughs with contemporaries like Cameron Diaz at the Golden Globes and relaxing during interviews with legendary entertainers like Shirley MacLaine and Dolly Parton on Oprah’s couch. These glimpses reveal a playful, down-to-earth personality behind the megawatt smile.

What makes these photos particularly compelling is their ability to highlight the evolution of Julia Roberts’ style and presence over the years. Early red carpet images show her experimenting with bold accessories like crystal chandelier earrings and textured button-downs, while later shots capture the poised elegance that would become her hallmark. It’s a visual journey that chronicles how she transformed from an aspiring actress into one of the most beloved figures in film.

This photographic retrospective offers fans a nostalgic celebration of her enduring legacy. It reminds us why her radiant smile and magnetic presence have been impossible to ignore for more than three decades. From her early days navigating Hollywood’s competitive landscape to becoming an Oscar-winning actress, these images tell the story of a woman whose talent and charisma have stood the test of time.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Vogue.