Hayden Panettiere Will Be Remembered As A Fashion Icon Thanks To These Stunning Looks

Hayden Panettiere landed her first acting role when she was just 4 years old on "One Life to Live," but she'd appeared in commercials as an infant. Befitting a Hollywood darling who'd spent her life in front of the camera, Panettiere was no stranger to stepping out for buzzy industry events. She didn't hit the red carpet as often in the years before her tragic death in 2026, but when she did, she was known to bust out a look that was fun, feminine, and just a little bit edgy. 

Sadly, it wasn't all glitz and glamour for the "Heroes" star. Panettiere spoke candidly about her struggles with depression and substance abuse, fueled in part by the pressures of a lifetime in the limelight. On August 16, police responded to a 911 call and arrived at the Greenville, South Carolina apartment where Panettiere was staying and found the actor unresponsive. Attempts to resuscitate Panettiere were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced dead at the scene just days before her 37th birthday.

As of this writing, the details surrounding Panettiere's tragic death are still under investigation. As the world mourns a screen darling, let us also remember her when she seemed in better spirits — out and about, and having fun with fashion.

When Hayden Panettiere attended the "Scream VI" world premiere in New York City in March 2023, the actor must've gotten the memo about themed red carpet looks — along with her co-stars, who also wore black 'fits. Ghostface wishes he looked this good in a draped frock. Panettiere reached for what seems to be a one-shoulder minidress worn underneath a sheer floor-length overcoat with an asymmetrical hem. The chic scarf and sexy black stockings were the perfect accessories to bring together this silky-smooth look.

If delicacy, femininity, and timeless elegance were on the brief, then Hayden Panettiere totally nailed it with the gown she wore to the 21st annual Critics' Choice Awards in January 2016. The "Nashville" actor donned a Maria Lucia Hohan gown that oozed Old Hollywood energy with its classic silhouette, gauzy fabric, and pretty pastel hue. But the va-va-voom open bodice and Panettiere's softly-waved lob offered a healthy dose of modernity that we're so here for.

Hayden Panettiere was outside "The Today Show" in New York City in September 2024 rocking a suit that offered a masterclass on how to do vintage-inspired in a way that still feels fresh. She wore relaxed trousers, a sheer button-up shirt, a gray houndstooth blazer, and a pair of what looks like Doc Martens for a 'fit that was a little '80s, a little '90s, and totally cool. And we're living for the skinny tie. Also, if you're rounding up pics of Hayden Panettiere's hair to bring to your next salon appointment, screenshot this slicked, icy-blond high ponytail.

Back in October 2013, Hayden Panettiere was taking her role as a Hollywood it-girl super seriously, evidenced by the dress she wore to the Environmental Media Awards. She reached for a Georges Hobeika knee-length bodycon featuring the best of the 2010s: a lace top, graphic lines, and a skin-tight pencil skirt in a juicy hue. To be sure, the bodycon with cutouts is among the dress trends that are firmly outdated in 2026, but it definitely had its moment — and when it was hot, it was hot. And we can't forget to salute her adorable high topknot.

Hayden Panettiere was anything but business casual in the red-hot look that she donned for the amfAR gala in Hollywood in November 2022. The organization raises funds for HIV/AIDS research with global, star-studded benefits. The "Remember the Titans" star was in attendance for the event dressed in a tomato-red Saint Laurent double-breasted blazer dress and open-toe patent leather platforms. The ensemble was equal parts chic and funky, and Panettiere underlined the point with slicked hair and ultra-sheer stockings. 

In August 2014, Hayden Panettiere walked the red carpet at the 66th Primetime Emmys draped in a regal silver dress. Lorena Sarbu designed the look, and the gown's classic silhouette and explosion of sequins worked to highlight the star's growing baby bump. Daughter Kaya was born that December, and before her tragic death, Hayden Panettiere spoke about her postpartum journey in a way that was sad but honest. The actor struggled to bond with Kaya and eventually developed depression that led to unhealthy alcohol use. Many women can relate to Panettiere's story, and we'll always remember and respect her courageous transparency. 

If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.