Katie Holmes Style Breakdown – What’s Right, What’s Wrong, and How to Fix It

Katie Holmes became a style icon by virtue of the media coverage bestowed upon her when she hooked up with, procreated with and married Tom Cruise. All eyes were on the cute 'Dawson's Creek' actress, so she had to step it up and go from girl to woman in a heartbeat.

She and Cruise are now divorced, but that hasn't stopped her style from evolving.

Remember the heavily-banged bob from the 2008 Met Gala? That was Holmes at her most chic and most Mrs. Cruise. But the Louise Brooks haircut, the orange Giorgio Armani gown and blue shoes, while show-stopping, didn't feel like "her."

Now that Holmes is a single mother and far removed from Cruise, whom she divorced last year, she's Katie the actress again. In the wake of the breakup, her style has become less stiff, more relatable and somewhat less high fashion, but she's still glam and real. That's why we're breaking down her style, post-split.

We've noticed that Suri's mom tends to favor dresses and skirts that hit just past the knee and never go too short -- and that's a carry over from the Mrs. Cruise era. She looks smashing, doesn't she?

What's Right:

Holmes' white pleated Calvin Klein gown at the 2013 Met Gala boasted a massive train and a halter neckline, but it also hugged her figure and was a gorgeous contrast to her bronzy skin. She also proved she didn't need her A-list ex as a red carpet accessory.

As a single mother to Suri, Holmes doesn't sacrifice chic even when going casual. Living in NYC now, she's shown a predilection for the city's signature shade of black, especially during winter and she was simple and sophisticated.

Holmes' belted, black mesh Dolce & Gabbana frock was pretty and mysterious, and absolutely the perfect length for her taller frame. It's one of her best choices since leaving Cruise.

Holmes was fresh and femme and so youthful in this summery square sundress paired with sneakers.

A cool and chic mom -- she is certainly setting a good example for Suri with her bell bottoms and a major bag.

What's Wrong:

Holmes overdid it with this paisley-ish dress that looked like fabric yanked from Granny's old couch. The belt, the bodice, the fabric and the opaque tights didn't work together.

Okay, full disclosure: When we first saw her in this white toga-like dress, we really liked it. It was summery. It was loose. Then we got a closer look at the REST of the presentation and that's wherein lies the problem.

First, you can see a bathing suit tanline. Egads! Her hair was also a bit too windblown. The strappy brown gladiators were aces, though.

How to Fix It:

Holmes isn't afraid to wear jeans but she's never sloppy when she does. She's a busy working mother so she has to allow herself some room to dress the part. These dark-rinse skinnies, tucked into brown ankle booties and paired with a cozy, bulky ivory sweater were wearable and stylish.

Her fans could also easily copy this look.

Her beloved just-past-the-knee length is always right for her, but would it kill her to shave a few inches off the length of some of her dresses, like this rich blue/purple/indigo Tom Ford velvet number? She's got legs -- she should show 'em a bit more.

This ruched LBD from Narciso Rodriguez's budget Kohl's line was simple but divine on Holmes' tall frame. Notice the hem is a little shorter. Yes, yes and yes.

Holmes may not be as couture-driven as she was when married to Cruise, but she's still chic and stylish and has reclaimed some of her youth.