There exist artists, singers, and writers and then there are once-in-a-generation superstars who redefine the pop culture of their times. Like The Beatles in the ‘60s or Micheal Jackson in the ‘80s, Taylor Swift is today’s reigning queen of pop music. She is making headlines with her chart-topping hits and record-breaking world tours, gaining global fame like nobody else. We know her songwriting prowess, but the singer-performer loves to be on top of her fashion game whenever she walks the red carpet.
Over the years, Taylor Swift’s statement looks and bold outfits have graced award ceremonies, music festivals, and premiers and still continue to do so. Each outfit is a testament to her confidence, evolving styles, and unapologetic attitude that everybody admires. As we look back at Taylor Swift’s 10 most iconic red carpet looks, get ready to be swept away by her fashion choices.
1. Taylor Swift at the 50th Grammy, 2008
Taylor Swift was in her Fearless era at her first Grammy Awards in 2008; this strapless lavender dress is a testament to that. The outfit lives rent-free in the minds of Swifties, who, for the first time, saw a hint of greatness in the songwriter 15 years back. The dress has beaded detailing on the skirt, with Taylor keeping her accessories minimal, with a matching bracelet and earrings.
2. Taylor Swift at the MTV VMAs in 2009
The infamous 2009 VMA’s also had Taylor go all-out glamorous. The singer looked dazzling in the one-shoulder Kaufman Franco gown, a floor-length sequin dress. Long, crystal earrings and a wispy updo looked amazing with the outfit as she walked away with the Best Female Music Video of the Year award.
3. The Golden Globes Gown, 2013
Taylor’s style became bolder and sleeker, with this Donna Karan gown turning heads at the Golden Globes Awards in 2013. The outfit might look simpler from the front but reveals its true features from the side, with a low back and sheer side panels. Taylor paired the eggplant-colored dress with matching earrings, giving her a chic, old-Hollywood look.
4. Taylor at the Grammy Awards 2015
Taylor made headlines at the 2015 Grammy Awards, with her custom Ombre gown designed by Ellie Saab taking the red carpet by storm. The teal dress with its front slit revealing a mini skirt was innovatively designed to highlight her purple Giuseppe Zanotti sandals. Matching earrings and bold colors of the sandals elevated her striking outfit even more.
5. Taylor Swift at the 2015 VMA Awards
Taylor made it evident at the 2015 VMA Awards that comfort and fashion can go hand-in-hand. The singer donned a two-piece sequin matching sweatsuit, styled by the designer brand Ashish, as she bagged the best music video award for her single Bad Blood. Keeping her accessories minimal, Taylor paired her long-sleeved crop top and high-waist harem pants with sleek Christian Louboutin heels and dark eyeliner.
6. Taylor Swift at the 2016 Oscar Awards
The colors couldn’t be any more fabulous on this iconic Oscars outfit. Who needs glittery gowns when you have this dual-toned, stunning Sherbert two-piece by Atelier Versace? Along with Taylor’s striking new bob haircut, this high-slit Fuchsia skirt and an orange-red bandeau top were the talks of the evening at the event. The singer kept the accessories simple with a choker and strappy, metallic heels to keep the focus on the dress’s design.
7. The 2016 Oscars After-party Look
The Oscars extravaganza continued till the after-party as the jaw-dropping black designer dress by Alexandre Vauthier gave Taylor Swift one of her most recognizable red-carpet looks. The high slit with a plunging neckline design looked chic, with the golden accessories adding glam to the outfit. Her choice of golden Jimmy Choo clutch and Giuseppe Zanotti shoes perfectly complemented the gown’s design.
8. The 2016 Met Gala Outfit
2016 was truly Taylor’s year. Debuting as the co-chair for the event, themed ‘Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology,’ Taylor styled a metallic silver Louis Vuitton mini dress, staying true to the futuristic vibe. The black knee-high boots and Eva Fehren rings paired well with the glittery dress, and her black lipstick was a bold statement, contrasting the blonde bob cut.
9. Taylor at the MTV VMAs in 2019
Taylor spared no effort to take her fashion to the next level with this breathtaking multicolor blazer dress. The Versace blazer and pink mini-dress ensemble blended seamlessly with the signature Medusa print and rainbow crystals. The black and glittery over-the-knee Christian Louboutin boots were equally pretty, with the Kallati earrings and a mix of rings by Brumani and Misahara Jewelry being a visual delight and a ten-on-ten outfit choice.
10. Taylor Swift at the 2021 Grammy
Taylor created history by becoming the first female artist to win the Album of the Year Grammy award for the third time in 2021. Her floral embroidered mini dress by Oscar de la Renta was a fitting tribute to such a momentous occasion. Paired with perfect pink Christian Louboutin sandals and Cathy Waterman jewelry, Taylor also had a floral mask ready whenever necessary. The fashion brand that created the dress revealed that each floral applique was sewn individually and had intricate designs.
The dazzling world of red carpets is an ever-evolving space, and Taylor Swift has surely cemented her place as a true fashion icon over the years. With her charisma and confidence, Taylor carries these outfits like a fashion model on a runway. From stunning, elaborative gowns to stylish sequin dresses, the singer loves to give out a statement, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next look.
As we look back on the unforgettable fashion moments, it’s not just about the glamorous outfits and elegant accessories, but the artist’s talent and grace that has inspired many people worldwide. These 10 outfits are a snapshot of her inspiring journey, each telling its own story. You are sure to find some inspiration along the way.