Raise your hand if Gwen Stefani was your original cool girl hero. Then look around. You’re definitely not alone on this one. While the past twelve months certainly haven’t been the easiest times in her life, she’s come out on top. Join us as we count down the 20 reasons Gwen Stefani is—and always has been—the coolest.

 

She’s the Original Fashion-Rule Breaker

 

 

Move over, Lady Gaga! Stefani’s been breaking the fashion rules in a big way for more than twenty years. The sheer red ’70s-inspired dress she recently wore on The Voice is just one example of her iconic rad style.

 

She’s a Skilled Seamstress

 

 

Gwen’s in-depth knowledge of sewing and fashion has certainly helped her success in the style realm. In the early days of No Doubt, Gwen developed her signature style by personally creating most of the clothing she wore on-stage! Today, you can buy her fashion lines Harajuku Lovers and L.A.M.B. (Love, Angel, Music, Baby) at 275 million locations worldwide.

 

She’s Been in Film

 

 

Gwen Stefani isn’t just a star of the stage; she has also starred on television, the runway, and the silver screen. In 2004 she played Hollywood legend Jean Harlow in Martin Scorsese’s film The Aviator.

 

She’s a Philanthropist

 

 

Gwen isn’t shy about sharing her good fortune with nonprofits. A few charities she works with include children’s hospitals and Save the Children.

 

She Takes Time for Family

 

 

Despite her busy life and many projects, Gwen isn’t afraid to take a few steps back and unwind in nature with her kids. She recently took a trip to Montana, where she snapped a gorgeous shot with her youngest son Apollo.

 

She Expresses Emotions with Music

 

 

After her split from ex-husband Gavin Rossdale, Gwen kept it classy but released a hit single titled “Used to Love You.” She’s stated, “My songs are basically my diaries. Some of my best songwriting has come out of … a personal nightmare.”

 

She’s Not Fussy about Food

 

 

On a recent trip to Nashville with Blake Shelton to attend a wedding, the pair were spotted dining at casual restaurant O’Charley’s. She’s also shared pictures of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza on Instagram.

 

She’s Persistent

 

 

If you ever wondered whether Gwen was born into fame or got really lucky, there’s a definite no to both questions. Gwen and No Doubt toured the U.S. for nine years before she got a song on the radio!

 

She’s a Troll

 

 

Gwen recently announced she’ll be joining Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick to do voice work for the upcoming animated film Trolls.

 

She Once Worked Normal Jobs

 

 

Stefani didn’t hit it big until she was 26, which means she spent a few years working normal jobs in between tours and gigs. Her work history includes Dairy Queen attendant, selling makeup, and working as a swim instructor.

 

She’s a Record Breaker

 

 

Stefani’s “signature” solo career song Hollaback Girl didn’t just win her respect as a solo artist and Grammy nominations: It was the first song ever to be legally downloaded a million times online!

 

She Overcame a Learning Disability

 

 

Stefani is reportedly dyslexic. Despite her learning disability, she’s a prolific songwriter, who penned many of No Doubt’s hits and tons of solo material.

 

She Designs for Dogs

 

 

Pet-lover Gwen is here to ensure that pets never go without. The latest in her Harajuku Lovers fashion empire includes punky-cool pet clothing that’s sold at Petco!

 

She Works Out Hard

 

 

While Stefani’s famous abs were initially toned by her love for swimming, these days she works hard in the gym. Her routine reportedly includes free weights and boxing.

 

She’s Refreshingly Normal

 

 

Despite her glamorous public image, Stefani is a regular mom in many ways. E reports she does her own makeup, lifts her own performance equipment, and even drives a van!

 

She Loves Japanese Style

 

 

Many of the inspirations for Gwen’s fashion brands L.A.M.B. and Harajuku Lovers are inspired by her passion for cutting-edge Japanese culture and style. Harajuku Lovers is even a nod to Harajuku, one of Tokyo’s most stylish districts.

 

She’s an Artist

 

 

In No Doubt’s early touring days, Stefani attended college as an art major. Her love for artistry is apparent in her gorgeous clothing designs, and it also graces the cover of the No Doubt album Rock Steady.

 

She Loves Unusual Names

 

 

Gwen Stefani’s youngest son, Apollo Bowie, almost had the first name “Jupiter.” However, Gwen’s ex-husband wasn’t a fan of that planetary name.

 

She Runs Late Too

 

 

Stefani ran an entire hour late to her first date in London with ex-husband Gavin Rossdale in 2002. We imagine it takes a little effort to look so gorgeous all the time!

 

She’s Got More Music up Her Sleeve

 

 

In 2014, Stefani confessed she has not one but two musical projects in the works. You can look forward to a full-length solo album and a No Doubt release in the future.