Behind the Scenes of the ELLE Cover Shoot

Sun Shine

Creative Director Joe Zee decided to play dress up with Gomez in everything from YSL to Balmain to Dolce & Gabbana (seen here).

On being the first Latina to lead a Disney TV series: "Growing up, [teen idols] were all blond, with light-colored eyes. I didn't realize how important it was to represent my background until parents of Latin descent started coming up to me. Then it clicked. I can represent a different generation and a different culture."

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Real World

NARS lipstick in Jungle Red was used to give Gomez a fire-red lip.

On growing up poor: "I can remember when our car got stuck on the highway because we'd run out of gas money." Still, her mother "saved up to take me to concerts. She took me to museums, aquariums, to teach me about the world, about what's real."

ON ELLE: Photos of Justin Bieber and Kim Kardashian’s Island Escape

Love Bug

On set, Gomez was easy-going and really sweet—the Biebs is one lucky guy.

On Bieber renting out L.A.'s Staples Center for a private screening of Titanic: "If I'll share anything with you, it's that he really is a hopeless romantic. I had just mentioned it in the car—all I said is that I really want to see Titanic again, and then…"

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Star Struck

For a day of fun in the sun, Joe Zee went for easy, yet youthful pieces to keep the star age-appropriate yet chic.

On seeing Jennifer Lopez in Selena at age 5: "I made a bustier out of a bathing suit that I dyed black. I put glue and glitter all over it, and I wouldn't take it off."

ON ELLE: Amazing Celebrity Engagement Rings

Two Timing

The two-piece Dolce & Gabbana look Gomez wore to the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards gave the young star a fresh image on the red carpet. We think that if you've got it, flaunt it!

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Silver Belle

Another Dolce & Gabbana choice, this time for the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, showed a more demure side to the actress, who opted for a retro hairstyle with her intricately beaded gown.

Short Cut

Showing off her gams in an ivory tulle Marchesa minidress, Gomez kept it sweet for the MTV Europe Music Awards.

Courtside Courtship

A lace tank and super-sleek hair made a certain half of this teen power couple an effortless beauty.

Street Chic

In super-small black shorts and a flowy white top, Gomez showed off her edgier side at a movie premiere.

Retro Fit

Looking Old Hollywood beautiful at the American Music Awards, the multitalented performer dazzled in a plunging pewter Giorgio Armani gown.

Knit Wit

Gomez looked like the girl next door we all know and love in a hole-punch sweater, gray leggings and a colorful knit scarf.

Go Streaking

The young star revealed her playful side with blue and purple streaked hair, perfect for gaining attention with a little attitude.

Stage Rage

When in concert, the singer does a more theatrical look. A crystal-studded body suit and cobalt blue dress made for an entertaining show in Mexico City.

Black in Action

At the MTV Video Music Awards, Gomez showed that black doesn't have to be boring. Her vampy lace ensemble was a look from Brit designer Julien Macdonald.

Dark Angel

A sparkly black top, black suede mini, and T-strap heels gave the actress a grown-up look for the Los Angeles premiere of Abduction. Although, we think her greatest accessory was her beau, Justin Bieber.