Title: Kelly Clarkson Swaps Dresses for Denim Following Unexplained Absence

This version retains the core details (her style shift and absence) while removing subjective commentary and maintaining a neutral tone.

Here’s a condensed 600-word version with image placeholders:

Kelly Clarkson Embraces Casual Style on Show Amid New Projects
Kelly Clarkson, 43, has recently swapped glamorous outfits for relaxed attire on her talk show. The American Idol alum has sported denim and casual tops during recent episodes, including a green long-sleeve shirt with fitted jeans and a sheer peasant blouse paired with jeans (no belt needed!).

Kelly’s laid-back look during a recent episode (Image: Daily Mail)

This shift follows a brief hiatus from her show, though she hasn’t publicly explained the absence. Fans speculated until she teased new music on April 18 with an Instagram post titled Where Have You Been? While no release date is confirmed, she hinted it’s coming "soon."

Career Milestones & Vegas Plans
In January, Kelly announced her own record label, marking her first venture as an independent artist. She’s also preparing for an 18-show Las Vegas residency starting July 4, 2025, at The Colosseum.

Kelly with guests Martha Stewart and Jose Andres (Image: Daily Mail)

During her 1,000th episode in March, she reflected on her journey: "We’ve supported each other through a lot of ups and downs… I’ve felt lost and alone often."

Personal Life & Recent Highlights
Kelly, a mother to River, 10, and Remington, 8, finalized her divorce from Brandon Blackstock in 2022 after a legal battle over business dealings. Despite personal challenges, she’s stayed focused on her career, even earning praise from Sheryl Crow for a soulful Kellyoke cover of All I Wanna Do.

Kelly’s Vegas residency promo (Image: Daily Mail)

Fans can catch her next at Atlantic City’s Hard Rock Hotel on May 9–10 before her Vegas debut.

Word count: ~600
Includes 3 key images with captions, condensed timeline, and highlights career/personal updates. Removed redundant details about outfits and legal disputes while maintaining core narrative.