- Billie Eilish’s choice to hide her body in baggy clothes was more than just a fashion statement.
- She opened up about her decision and her reasons for adopting both oversized outfits and form-fitting styles.
- Here are three key moments where fans get a glimpse of her stunning figure, showing how her style has evolved.
Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell was born on December 18, 2001, in Los Angeles, California. She is an American singer and songwriter who first gained attention with her debut single “Ocean Eyes” in 2015.
Billie Eilish attends the Teen Vogue Celebrates 14th Annual Young Hollywood Issue in Malibu, California, on September 23, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
Eilish, who has been vocal about her body image issues, quickly became a prominent figure in the music industry. Her debut album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” topped charts worldwide, solidifying her as a major talent.
Billie Eilish attends the Teen Vogue Celebrates 14th Annual Young Hollywood Issue in Malibu, California, on September 23, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
For years, the singer has been recognized for her signature baggy clothing and chains, sparking much speculation and curiosity. However, a few images, including three that are featured here, reveal Eilish’s figure.
Billie Eilish in 2016
Billie Eilish attends the Teen Vogue Celebrates 14th Annual Young Hollywood Issue in Malibu, California, on September 23, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2017
In 2017, the “Ocean Eyes” singer effortlessly pulled off a style that’s both relaxed and fashion-forward. She attended an event with an oversized fishnet shirt adding to the casual vibe.
Billie Eilish arrives for the premiere of the film “Everything Everything” in Hollywood, California on May 6, 2017. | Source: Getty Images
Eilish matched the yellow shirt with roomy multicolored pants and black boots. The boots had mismatched laces, one colored yellow, and the other white, giving a carefully curated ambiance.
Billie Eilish arrives for the premiere of the film “Everything Everything” in Hollywood, California on May 6, 2017. | Source: Getty Images
At another event, the singer stood out in a stylish yellow overall paired with a yellow puff jacket, layered over a white turtleneck. Her white sneakers contrast playfully with mismatched socks, one black and one white, showcasing a quirky personality.
Billie Eilish visits at SiriusXM Studios in New York City, on January 11, 2017. | Source: Getty Images
In yet another look, Eilish wore a vibrant yellow overall paired with a navy blue puff jacket that revealed a yellow lining. Underneath, she wore a navy blue shirt. Her sneakers, featuring navy blue, white, and black, completed her stylish and confident look.
Billie Eilish arrives at the premiere of Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why” at Paramount Pictures in Los Angeles, California, on March 30, 2017. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2018
Despite her popularity and impeccable style, photos of Eilish are rare because she actively avoids the spotlight. She avoids dining out and no longer shops at Trader Joe’s, a place she once hoped to work. The singer picked these habits to protect herself from paparazzi.
Billie Eilish performs at St Jerome’s Laneway Festival in Brisbane, Australia, on February 10, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
Once, a paparazzo captured a rare photo of Eilish wearing a tight tank top and shorts, revealing her cleavage. The image quickly circulated online, with comments suggesting that she had developed a body resembling that of a mid-30s woman.
The photo, captured in the brief moment she moved from her car to her brother’s house, sparked a wide range of reactions. Some comments were supportive citing body positivity while other people shared their negative and harmful opinions.
Billie Eilish at the ASCAP Pop Awards in Los Angeles on April 23, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
“I think that the people around me were more worried about it than I was, because the reason I used to cut myself was because of my body. To be quite honest with you, I only started wearing baggy clothes because of my body,” shared Eilish.
Billie Eilish performs onstage during Day 3 of the Governors Ball Music Festival in New York City, on June 3, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
Eilish felt relieved that the paparazzi incident occurred at a time when she had a healthier relationship with her body. Reflecting on her past struggles, she recalled how years back, she had a very negative body image.
Billie Eilish kicks off Apple Holiday campaign with a performance at the Apple Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, California, on November 20, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
There was a time she had danced excessively and barely eaten, even resorting to a diet pill at just 12 years old. This experience seemed surreal to her now, especially since she initially believed her body insecurities were hers alone to handle.
Billie Eilish performs onstage during KROQ Absolut Almost Acoustic Christmas in Inglewood, California, on December 9, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
It was disheartening for her to discover that the internet also harbored negative opinions about her body. “The internet hates women,” she declared.
Billie Eilish visits the SiriusXM Studios in New York City, on November 5, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
In 2020, Eilish created a short film where she gradually removes a black hoodie to reveal a bra before sinking into a pool of thick black liquid. In the accompanying voiceover, she questions whether people truly understand her, noting that they form opinions about her views, music, clothing, and body.
Billie Eilish performs in concert during Music Midtown in Atlanta, Georgia, on September 16, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2019
In a Calvin Klein ad for the campaign “I Speak My Truth In #MyCalvins,” Billie Eilish shared why she preferred wearing baggy clothes. She explained that she uses fashion as a shield to maintain her privacy.
Billie Eilish at the Variety Hitmakers Brunch, in Los Angeles on December 7, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
“That’s why I wear baggy clothes. Nobody can have an opinion because they haven’t seen what’s underneath,” she noted. This move ensures that people can’t make judgments about the singer’s body, such as commenting on her shape or size, because they don’t have all the details.
Billie Eilish is seen in Paris, France, on February 20, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
“No one can say any of that because they don’t know,” she emphasized. Eilish’s fans supported her decision, expressing that it increased their admiration for her both as a person and as an artist.
Billie Eilish is seen on Avenue Montaigne in Paris, France, on February 20, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
However, some individuals argued that no person should be forced to conceal their body in order to avoid harassment or negative comments.
Billie Eilish is seen as Spotify presents The Billie Eilish Experience in Los Angeles, California, on March 28, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
They believe that it is unfair for the “Happier Than Ever” crooner to feel pressured to alter her appearance to escape unwanted scrutiny and derogatory remarks.
Billie Eilish is seen as Spotify presents The Billie Eilish Experience in Los Angeles, California, on March 28, 2019. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2020
More fans of Eilish shared their opinions on X in support of the singer. “When billie eilish said ‘I wear baggy clothes so ppl don’t have to know what’s underneath, they can’t judge’ i felt that,” one admirer wrote.
Billie Eilish attends The BRIT Awards in London, England, on February 18, 2020. | Source: Getty Images
“I always figured that’s what it was because I used to hide under big clothes and blankets. 🙁 I love you @billieeilish,” said another fan who related to Eilish’s experience.
Billie Eilish poses backstage at the Billboard Music Awards, broadcast in Los Angeles, California, on October 14, 2020. | Source: Getty Images
“I will ALWAYS stan Billie and this breaks my heart that she feels the need to dress like this just to avoid you miserable people who like to body shame for NO REASON,” noted an admirer who empathized with Eilish.
Billie Eilish attends the Vanity Fair Oscar Party at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California, on February 9, 2020. | Source: Getty Images
Another fan pointed out how unfair the situation was by saying, “The fact that Billie Eilish wears baggy clothes so she won’t get sexualized really says something about our society.”
Billie Eilish arrives at the 92nd Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland in Hollywood, California, on February 9, 2020. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2021
During the pandemic, Eilish realized that she spent so much time by herself that she couldn’t view herself objectively anymore. It dawned on her that she had no idea who she was, so she embarked on a self-discovery journey.
Ultimately, in 2021, the singer celebrated her complexity and individuality when she posed in three pictures showing her figure in British Vogue. Eilish revealed that she had adopted a multifaceted nature, acknowledging that she is not confined to a single identity.
Reflecting on her past, she revealed that she spent a significant portion of her life presenting herself in a masculine and boyish manner. However, in past years, she had come to understand that she was free to express herself in various ways.
“I don’t need to always prove to everyone that I’m a tomboy. Like, that is what I am, but I also am this kind of girl. I’m also feminine, and I’m also sexy, and I’m also cute,” she expressed.
Eilish, who was then photographed in a corset, acknowledged that this garment, known for its controversial history, was likely to provoke strong reactions.
While Eilish is fascinated by the corset’s aesthetics, its shapes, lacing, and design, she is also interested in its original function of confinement. “If I’m honest with you, I hate my stomach, and that’s why,” she admitted.
Billie Eilish attends the “Happier Than Ever: The Destination” celebration, presented by Billie Eilish and Spotify, for the new album in Los Angeles, California, on July 29, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
Eilish also had a distinct message with her new look. She confronted abusers who exploit underage girls, saying, “Don’t make me not a role model because you’re turned on by me.”
Billie Eilish attends The Met Gala Celebrating In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, on September 13, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
She also called out people who commended her for feeling comfortable in her bigger skin. “The more the internet and the world care about somebody that’s doing something they’re not used to, they put it on such a high pedestal that then it’s even worse,” she noted.
Billie Eilish attends the 10th Annual LACMA ART+FILM GALA presented by Gucci at Los Angeles County Museum of Art in Los Angeles, California, on November 6, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
With all the changes she had made to her appearances, including getting rid of her signature jet black and lurid green hair she had worn for months, the singer said, “I feel more like a woman, somehow.”
Billie Eilish attends The Met Gala Celebrating In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, on September 13, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2022
In 2022, Eilish’s style evolution was marked by a notable shift to more feminine attire. She did not entirely abandon her signature baggy and boyish outfits but blended both.
The singer made bold fashion statements with a variety of elegant and form-fitting attires. On the red carpet, she has adopted lacy dresses, figure-hugging silhouettes, and corsets that highlight her cleavage.
Billie Eilish, wearing Gucci, attends the LACMA ART+FILM GALA Presented By Gucci at Los Angeles County Museum of Art in Los Angeles, California, on November 5, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
For instance, at the Met Gala in 2022, Eilish graced the event in a custom Gucci gown, which featured a corseted bodice, a Duchesse satin skirt with a padded bustle, and delicate lace detailing.
Billie Eilish attends The Met Gala Celebrating “In America: An Anthology of Fashion” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, on May 2, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
Her mirror selfies further reflected this transformation, featuring v-neck tops that accentuate her cleavage. The selfies also highlighted her striking features, including her captivating eyes, beautiful lips, and well-defined facial structure.
Billie Eilish in 2023
In 2023, Eilish embraced a more sophisticated and feminine aesthetic, frequently appearing in elaborate and elegant outfits. She showcased her evolving style at various high-profile events.
Billie Eilish attends the Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Radhika Jones at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California, on March 12, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
For instance, at the 2023 Academy Museum Gala, Eilish put on a busty display in a striking pinstriped suit. The tailored set featured a fitted blazer with a plunging neckline, accentuating her curves. Eilish completed the look with a matching skirt.
Billie Eilish at the Academy Museum Gala held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, California, on December 3, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
At the 2023 Met Gala, Eilish donned a custom Simone Rocha ensemble. The sheer black gown was adorned with intricate lace detailing and floral appliqués. It featured a high neckline, long sleeves, and a dramatic train that added a touch of elegance.
Billie Eilish attends The Met Gala Celebrating “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line Of Beauty” at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, on May 1, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
In a total blend of styles, Eilish embraced her tomboy roots at the “Swarm” premiere. She opted for a relaxed look, wearing a baggy white shirt paired with loose-fitting black trousers. She accessorized with a large black necktie and black and white sneakers.
Billie Eilish attends the premiere of “Swarm” at Lighthouse Artspace LA in Los Angeles, California, on March 14, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
At the World Premiere of “Barbie,” Eilish put her own spin on the pink theme by wearing a menswear-inspired outfit. She opted for a stylish shirt and tie, complemented by pink socks and shoes. This unique attire highlighted her ability to blend masculine and feminine elements.
FINNEAS and Billie Eilish attend the World Premiere of “Barbie” at Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles, California, on July 9, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
Billie Eilish in 2024
At the 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards, Eilish chose a striking Thom Browne ensemble. She wore a black, formfitting corset-style dress layered over a floor-length white collared shirt. Eilish completed her look with a pair of round glasses and styled her vibrant red and black hair in a sleek, tied-back fashion.
Billie Eilish attends the 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, on January 14, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Eilish’s remarkable style and talent are closely intertwined. With 26 Grammy nominations and 10 wins to her name, her achievements underscore her significant impact on the music industry. In 2024, she won the Grammy for Song of the Year for “What Was I Made For?” from the “Barbie” soundtrack.
Billie Eilish attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California, on February 4, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Eilish’s evolving fashion sense, from edgy tomboy looks to sophisticated elegance, mirrors her dynamic artistic and personal growth. Her fashion choices highlight her unique style. However, her decisions also serve as a platform for her to address sensitive issues such as body image issues and body shaming.
Billie Eilish performs onstage during the 96th Annual Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, on March 10, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
By using her style to express herself and advocate for important causes, the 22-year-old remains a standout figure in both fashion and music.