From her fresh-faced rise to fame in the ’90s to her more recent appearances as a mother of three, the actress’s appearance has changed dramatically. This has drawn renewed attention from fans and critics alike, with many commenting on her natural curves and the transformation she has undergone over the years.
A Star’s Evolution
Holly Marie Combs rose to fame as Piper Halliwell from “Charmed,” the grounded and nurturing middle sister of the witch siblings. However, the actress’s appearance has dramatically changed over the years, drawing renewed attention from fans and critics alike.
In 1992, Combs landed her breakout role as Kimberly Brock on “Picket Fences,” a part that earned her critical praise and a Young Actor Award. Her appearance during this time reflected her youth, with soft, defined features, a smooth complexion, and expressive brown eyes. Her long, dark hair framed a face that carried a natural beauty and warmth.
After “Picket Fences” ended, Combs took on various roles in TV movies before snagging the role of Piper Halliwell in 1998, a character that would define her career and bring her worldwide fame through the WB’s hit show “Charmed.” Her appearance during this time reflected this new phase of confidence and maturity. Though still youthful, her features had sharpened slightly with age, giving her face more definition.
By 2003, Combs’ features had taken on a more refined, polished look. Her face appeared slightly fuller, giving her a softer, more mature presence. The shape of her eyes remained a defining feature, still bright and expressive, while her smile seemed even more confident and warm. Her hair, worn long and sleek, framed her face in a way that highlighted her natural beauty and glowing complexion.
A New Chapter
By 2011, Combs had been navigating personal and professional change for years. After taking some time to prioritize her family, the actress returned to television with a part in “Pretty Little Liars” but later had to endure a public divorce. During this period, subtle changes in her appearance reflected the passage of time.
In 2014, at 40, Combs’ features had subtly evolved. Her once sharper jawline had softened, and her cheeks appeared fuller, giving her face a rounder, more balanced shape. Her hair, noticeably lighter than in years past, framed her face with warm caramel tones that softened her overall look. The darker shades that once defined her image had been replaced with a sun-kissed gradient, adding a fresh, playful contrast to her more settled features.
By 2017, Combs was embracing a new chapter in her personal life after announcing her engagement to her longtime boyfriend. The milestone seemed to coincide with a refreshed appearance.
By 2019, Combs’ appearance reflected a shift toward a more natural, effortless beauty. Her face carried a softer fullness, with a roundness to her cheeks and a relaxed, serene expression that seemed to suit her at this stage in life. Her skin also retained its signature smoothness, with a healthy, natural tone.
Public Scrutiny and a Reminder of Acceptance
By 2025, Combs’ appearance had noticeably changed from her earlier years, with a fuller face and softer jawline suggesting weight gain over time. Online, netizens did not shy away from commenting on her appearance. One post bluntly stated, “holly marie combs has gained HELLA weight [sic].”
However, one person was quick to defend the actress, arguing that criticizing someone’s body is out of line. “[…] Attacking her personally about her looks & weight is out of order especially when the fandom is about inclusivity,” they shared.
Holly Marie Combs’ transformation over the decades reflects the natural changes that come with time, life experiences, and shifting priorities. From a rising star to a working mother and now embracing life on her own terms, her evolving appearance serves as a reminder that beauty takes many forms—and public opinion will always follow.