Yes, we realize the title of this post is oxymoronic, as nothing at all about Nicole Richie could possibly be considered classic. That word implies something once had redeeming qualities or some semblance of worth, and while Richie may not be as detestable as Spencer Pratt (who is, really), she's hardly vintage.

Just the same, the photos below are a heck of a lot more pleasing than the sickly, ghostly, flat-out wrong Nicole Richie pictures presented to us these days.

Yes, long before Nicole was known for blowing chunks and Joel Madden, she was just Paris Hilton's slightly chunky, fun-loving pal on the reality TV hit, The Simple Life.

Check out this old Maxim/Stuff spread. While they may be the most airbrushed photos of all time, we definitely prefer the old Nicole. Much like we dig the old Kate Bosworth.