“Same Dress, Different View”: Carrie Underwood Dons the Same Dress She Won ‘American Idol’ in 20 Years Ago

While known for songs like “Inside Your Heaven”, “Jesus, Take the Wheel”, and “Before He Cheats”, Carrie Underwood was once nothing more than a singer with a dream. In 2005, the singer decided to try and make that dream a reality when she competed on American Idol. And to her surprise, her voice and determination led to her doing more than win as she brought home numerous Grammy Awards. But never forgetting her time on American Idol, she recently decided to wear the same dresses she won in. 

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When producers announced Underwood as the newest judge on American Idol, fans anxiously awaited the new season. And throughout season 23, the singer helped contestants harness their talents and break barriers. On Sunday, the show celebrated iconic moments in the show’s history. Wanting to celebrate her own accomplishments, Underwood decided to wear the classic dress, which is 20 years old. 

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Offering fans a 2005 fit check, Underwood dazzled on stage as she declared, “Still fits.” Outside of the dress, during the video, fellow judge Luke Bryan can be seen in the background having a little fun as he showcased a shocked face. 

Then and Now !!! @carrieunderwood pic.twitter.com/tJIIfvaduF

— Brit (@CrazyCUAngel) April 29, 2025

[RELATED: “No Way It’s Been 20 Years”: Carrie Underwood Recreates Legendary ‘American Idol’ Moment With Cover of Heart’s “Alone”]

‘American Idol’ John Foster Honors Carrie Underwood & Randy Travis

Besides the iconic throwback moment, contestant John Foster took the stage to perform the hit song from Randy Travis “I Told You So.” Releasing on the 1987 album Always & Forever, Underwood loved the No. 1 hit so much that she included a cover version on her 2007 album Carnival Ride. 

Knowing the history of Underwood, Foster nailed the performance with comments reading, “Flashbacks to when Carrie sang this with the one and only Randy Travis. I love John’s voice so much. It’s just pure old school country. He fits right in singing the Randy Travis stuff. His voice just feels like it’s from that era.” Another person added, “This is one of my favorite songs. I love good country music. He is the one I want for American Idol. I love his look and hat.”

With the season finale just around the corner, don’t miss a single minute of American Idol, airing Sunday and Monday at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.  

(Photo by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images)