Gossip Girl followed a group of friends through high school, on to college and beyond. There were ups and downs along the way, but their journeys made them stronger and changed them for the better.
In particular, there was a star, an it girl, a blonde beauty… Serena van der Woodsen. She had one of the biggest transformations from the beginning of this teen drama show to the end, but there were some great qualities she kept with her throughout the entire story. That being said, here are five ways she changed and five ways she’ll always be the same!
Changed: Became Less Of A Party Girl
The old Serena could often be found drinking, flirting with boys and spending her nights and evenings with wild friends, such as Georgina Sparks. After returning to the city and meeting Dan, though, she changed her ways and had new interests, hobbies and views on everything. Sure, she still enjoyed an adult beverage or two and loved a good party, but she was in control and did it all in a grown-up and responsible way (for the most part).
Same: Liked Having A Good Time
Yes, this carefree spirit had a bubbly attitude and extroverted personality, so she soaked up as much of life as possible. Plus, in her world, there were always school dances, charity functions, themed parties and other fancy events to attend.
No matter where she was, she liked having a good time, and she was often seen flashing that killer smile.
Changed: Told Blair How She Really Felt
Blair and Serena had been friends forever, though they hit some rough patches. In one tumultuous moment, Serena got fed up and finally told B how she really felt and vice versa. There were flaws in their relationship, as with any, and they may have noticed them before. To say them out loud, though, was painful… but it actually made their bond even better, once they finally made up again!
Same: Would Always Be There For Her Friends, Period
Serena, Blair, Chuck, Nate, Dan… All of these characters had arguments with one another, but they were like family. And even if Serena experienced a breakup with one or had vanished again, running from her problems, she would always come back. She would always drop everything to be there for them, and they would do the same.
Changed: Wanted To Be A Better Person, Overall
As S grew and matured, she learned from her mistakes and became a better person overall. She was nicer, leaving snarky comments behind. She was more aware of how her actions/words affected others, trying to think first. She was always a good person, and that deepened as her story progressed.
Same: Didn’t Always Make The Best Decisions
Since she was just human, though, mistakes were still made. Her professional life, her relationships, how she handled disagreements, some of the outfits she wore… She didn’t always make the best decisions, and that remained true throughout the whole show! In fact, she could be a total mess at times. It also made her more relatable, though, and made the story even more interesting.
Changed: Learned To Be Less Superficial
On a similar note, Serena learned to be less superficial. One of the biggest problems in her relationship with Dan was that they came from different worlds, and she played the rich, privileged, snobby card at times.
Part of her growth was learning that there were more important things in life and learning how to not appear self-centered and materialistic. Thanks, Dan!
Same: Enjoyed A Luxurious Life
Still, she enjoyed her luxurious life, and while she was okay with simple pleasures and activities, she did like designer clothes, glamorous parties, and having meals cooked for her.
Even the Humphreys, who claimed to be different and were usually seen eating homemade waffles in a loft, certainly grew accustomed to these lavish ways! So no one can blame her for enjoying the finer things in life.
Changed: Fell For A Lonely Boy From Brooklyn
Serena had so many love interests over the years, and everyone was shocked that she would even look twice at a boy like Dan. She changed, though, and she didn’t just look at him; she fell for him hard, and she ended up marrying him! This was an exciting love story, and these two helped bring out the best in one another.
Same: Was Absolutely Stunning On Her Wedding Day
As a character who turned heads, started trends and intoxicated people, S always looked so stylish and beautiful; even on her worse days and when she was not feeling her best, she still stood out in the best way possible. She is gorgeous! This was something else that remained the same, and in the final episode of this television series, she was absolutely stunning.
She wore several gold ensembles over the years, but the one seen on her wedding day was the best of all.