How To Dress Like Taylor Swift’s Eras

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, as a massive Swiftie, I decided to check out top tips for how to dress like Taylor Swift’s eras, inspired by her different album styles.

Confession time: I’m a full-fledged, glitter-throwing, lyric-quoting Swiftie. Taylor Swift’s music has been the soundtrack to my life, and her ever-evolving style has always been a source of inspiration. From the sparkling country princess to the sleek pop powerhouse, each Taylor Swift era offers a distinct aesthetic that screams to be recreated.

So, I decided to decipher the style secrets behind each of Taylor’s iconic eras. Whether you’re a fellow Swiftie or simply a fashion enthusiast, this guide will help you channel your inner Taylor and embrace the confidence and creativity that defines her style.

According to experts at Boohoo, some of Taylor’s album eras are much more on-trend this year and fashion experts expect to see a crossover from fashion week to the concert arena. Their analysis looked at the most popular items on the runway this year and analysed each album’s aesthetic against the emerging trends. It also considered Pinterest searches for outfit elements related to each, to identify increases in interest.

The expert identified trendiest eras, Reputation, Lover, Midnights, and Debut, so I’ve taken a look at how we can incorporate looks from those eras and dress like Taylor Swift!

Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour is one of the biggest events happening in the UK this year, and there’s a high expectation for fans to wear statement outfits to pay tribute to their favourite album as the tour really emphasises the importance of aesthetics, ambience, and style.  

However, it’s worth considering which of the eras best encapsulates current trends and outfit aspirations, as many fans will be looking to not only pay tribute to the singer’s works, but also look good generally. And while you can’t really go that wrong when dressing for a concert, some albums are much more on-trend than others.

-experts from Boohoo

Reputation 

With rumours swirling that Reputation will be Swift’s next re-release under her own label, fans are looking to embrace the aesthetic now more than ever. 

The Reputation era marked a significant shift in Swift’s musical and stylistic direction, introducing a darker, edgier aesthetic that reflected her emotional journey and spoke to how she felt largely misunderstood and villainised by her peers.  

Understandably, the heart of Reputation fashion embraces boldness and defiance – a stark contrast to her earlier releases.  

Those looking to emulate the era this year should consider a high contrast body suit, or alternatively opt for hot pants, as these saw a huge 52% increase in Pinterest searches over the past year. Pair with knee-high or thigh-high boots, snake accessories and a bold red lip for the full effect. 

Black is Your Best Friend

Reputation black is all about bold textures that add depth and attitude. Think sleek patent leather for jackets, skirts, or even a pair of statement pants. Distressed denim adds a touch of rock and roll rebellion, perfect for ripped jeans or a cropped denim jacket. For a more luxurious feel, opt for black silk or velvet, ideal for a slip dress or a form-fitting top.

Black can be a blank canvas, but in the Reputation era, it’s the details that make the outfit sing. Look for pieces with zipper embellishments, studs, or metallic hardware on jackets, pants, or even boots. Lace panels or sheer cutouts can add a touch of intrigue while staying true to the dark aesthetic.

The Reputation era is all about confidence and owning your curves. Embrace bodycon dresses that hug your figure or high-waisted shorts paired with a crop top. Oversized blazers with sharp shoulders add a powerful touch, while asymmetrical cuts and ruffled details can introduce a hint of drama.

Snake It Up

Snakes became a powerful symbol of the Reputation era, slithering their way onto everything from music videos to album artwork. While incorporating a live snake into your outfit might be a tad impractical (and potentially dangerous!), there are plenty of ways to add a touch of serpent style and embrace the symbolism of this iconic era.

A silky snake-print scarf adds a touch of pattern and intrigue without being overwhelming. Drape it around your neck, tie it around your purse strap, or even use it as a belt for a versatile accessory.

Snake-print boots, whether ankle booties or knee high stunners, instantly add an edge to your outfit. They pair well with everything from ripped jeans to black dresses. Feeling bold? Top off your look with a snake-print baseball cap or a wide-brimmed hat featuring the slithering pattern. It’s a statement piece that’s sure to turn heads.

Don a chunky snake-print bangle, a statement necklace with a snake pendant, or even delicate snake-shaped earrings. Jewelry is a great way to add a touch of symbolism without going overboard.

Look for clothing with subtle snake details, like a black dress with a snake-shaped sequin pattern or a leather jacket with embroidered snake motifs. These pieces make a statement without being too costume-y.

Red Lips and Bold Liner

The dark and edgy vibes of Taylor Swift’s Reputation era extended beyond clothing and into the realm of makeup. Think bold lips, sharp eyeliner, and a touch of drama. Here’s how to capture that iconic look and unleash your inner rockstar:

This is a non-negotiable! Sharpen your black eyeliner pencil or liquid liner and create a dramatic wing on your upper eyelid. For extra drama, extend the wing further out and even flick it upwards at the end.

If you’re comfortable with a more intense look, try a smokey eye. Use black or dark grey eyeshadow to create a diffused effect on your eyelid, blending it upwards towards your crease. For a touch of unexpected glam, add a subtle shimmer to your inner eye corners using a silver or white eyeshadow.

The Reputation era makeup is all about a bold red lip. Choose a shade that flatters your skin tone – from classic blue-reds to deep berry tones, the options are endless. A perfect red lip requires precision. Line your lips with a red lip liner that matches your lipstick shade for a defined shape. Fill in your lips completely using a lipstick brush for a flawless finish.

Lover 

Lover marked a shift to a more romantic and whimsical aesthetic, highlighted by soft pastels, intricate frills, sparkling sequins, and delicate lace. It’s no surprise that it’s appealing right now, given the rise in interest in coquette fashion lately. 

And this rise isn’t just on the runways – Pinterest saw a 58% increase in searches for lace outfits and a 54% rise in floral print interest.  

Dressing in the Lover era’s style means embracing your inner romantic, softness, and femininity. To take chic to the next level consider adding bows to your hair, accessories or dress as bow aesthetic has seen a whopping 633% spike in Pinterest searches this year.  

Colour Crush

Soft, dreamy colors are the foundation of the Lover era aesthetic. Think baby pinks, like spun sugar or rose quartz, calming lavenders, and serene baby blues. Dresses, skirts, blouses, even cardigans – these gentle tones can be incorporated in various ways to create a sweet and romantic look.

Don’t be afraid to turn up the volume! The Lover era welcomed bolder hues that exude joy and optimism. Think sunshine yellows, playful oranges that remind you of a juicy tangerine, and grassy greens that evoke a fresh spring day. A flowy maxi dress in a vibrant yellow or a cute romper in a citrusy orange are perfect ways to make a statement.

For a modern take on the Lover era color palette, try rocking a single bold color from head-to-toe. Imagine a hot pink suit that commands attention or a sunshine yellow dress that radiates warmth – these monochromatic looks are perfect for the fashion-forward Swiftie.

While pinks and yellows are signature colors, the Lover era embraces a broader spectrum. Soft peach, a calming lilac, a cool mint green – all these hues can be incorporated to create a unique and personal take on the aesthetic.

Pattern Play

The Lover era wasn’t just about color; it was a celebration of playful patterns that mirrored the whimsical and romantic mood of the album.

Florals are a no-brainer for the Lover era. Think delicate blooms scattered across a pastel dress, a bold floral maxi skirt that twirls with every step, or even a cute floral bomber jacket for a laid-back vibe. No matter the style, florals instantly add a touch of femininity and evoke the carefree feeling of spring.

Gingham checks are another signature pattern of the Lover era. These preppy squares come in all sorts of variations – pastel pinks and blues for a sweet look, classic black and white for a timeless vibe, or even bolder colors like red and yellow for a fun twist. Embrace gingham in a flowy dress, a cute pair of shorts, or even a trendy gingham blazer.

Feeling adventurous? The Lover era is all about embracing your playful side! Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns for a unique and eye-catching look. Try a floral skirt with a striped top, a gingham dress with a polka-dot scarf, or even mix florals with geometric patterns for a truly bold statement.

Romantic Details

Let your outfit speak the language of love! Embrace the theme with heart-shaped details like earrings, necklaces, or even sweaters with embroidered hearts. Butterflies, another symbol of love and transformation, are also perfect. A delicate butterfly necklace, a scarf with a butterfly print, or even a pair of butterfly hair clips can add a touch of whimsy.

A touch of elegance goes a long way in the Lover era. Incorporate pearls into your look with a classic pearl necklace, a pair of pearl earrings, or even a dress with delicate pearl embellishments. Sparkles add a touch of glamour and can be incorporated subtly with a pair of sparkly shoes, a statement bracelet, or even a headband with a touch of glitter.

While hearts and butterflies are easy choices, don’t be afraid to get creative! Think about other romantic symbols like lace, ribbons, or soft, flowing fabrics. A dress with a delicate lace overlay, a top with a romantic ribbon tie at the neck, or a skirt made of soft, cascading chiffon can all evoke the essence of the Lover era’s romantic spirit.

Don’t forget the finishing touches! Romantic hairstyles like soft curls, braids adorned with ribbons, or a whimsical headband can add to the overall look. Makeup in the Lover era is light and fresh, with soft pink blush and a touch of shimmer on the eyes for a touch of ethereal beauty.

Midnights 

Taylor’s Midnights tour outfits crossover into mob wife fashion – a trend that’s seen an enormous 1,300% increase in search interest this year. To capitalise on this trend, we suggest pairing a fur coat (93% rise in search interest) with a sequin dress.
 
Another trend on the catwalk this year was ASMR – statement pieces that provide a sensory experience, blending the drama of glitz and glamour with the allure of ASMR. We want to hear your outfit so select statement pieces that not only draw attention visually but also make a pleasing swishing sound like Taylor’s beaded fringe dress. 

Embrace the Dark Side (with a Twist)

Flowy silhouettes are key for the Midnights era. Imagine a maxi dress with a cascading skirt that sways with each step, or a silky slip dress that drapes beautifully, creating an air of effortless elegance. High-waisted pants in black or deep blue paired with a cropped top offer a more structured yet still dreamlike look.

Luxurious fabrics like velvet and satin add a touch of glamour to your dark palette. A velvet maxi dress in a deep purple or a satin slip dress in a midnight blue instantly elevates your look. For a more casual vibe, try a black lace top or a sheer chiffon blouse layered over a cami.

Welcome the Lavender Haze

Lavender comes in a beautiful spectrum. Opt for a light, lilac lavender for a touch of ethereal innocence, or a richer plum lavender for a more sophisticated look. Consider the occasion and your personal style when choosing the perfect shade.

Let the lavender color take center stage with flowy silhouettes. Imagine a maxi dress with a cascading skirt in a light lavender that sways with each step. A silky slip dress in a deeper lavender adds a touch of old-Hollywood glamour. Even a romantic blouse with billowing sleeves in a soft lavender creates a whimsical aesthetic.

Layering allows you to play with different textures and create a more dimensional look. Try a lavender camisole layered under a sheer black chiffon top. For a cooler vibe, throw on a lavender knit cardigan over a flowy white dress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures like lace, chiffon, and silk for added visual interest.

Sparkling Touches for a Midnight Fairytale

Ditch the blinding disco ball effect. The Midnights era calls for a more subtle sparkle, like moonlight dancing on water. Think sequins with a matte finish or iridescent fabrics that shimmer with a hint of color when they catch the light. A black dress with delicate sequined details scattered across the bodice or a silky top with iridescent threads woven into the fabric are perfect examples.

Let your accessories be the stars of the show! Opt for delicate jewelry with tiny gemstones that twinkle like constellations. A pair of dangling earrings with moonstone or opal or a statement necklace with a single, sparkling pendant instantly elevate your look. Don’t forget hair accessories like a headband with a touch of glitter or sparkly bobby pins for a touch of whimsy.

Even your footwear can join the celestial party! Opt for shoes with subtle metallic details, like a pair of black pumps with silver glitter on the heel or black sandals with straps embellished with tiny crystals. This adds a touch of understated sparkle without overwhelming the overall look.

70s Inspiration with a Modern Twist:

The 70s were all about cinching the waist and elongating the legs. Embrace high-waisted flares in rich jewel tones like emerald green or classic navy. For a dressier look, opt for a high-waisted maxi dress with a flowing skirt.

Ditch the skinny jeans! Wide-leg pants are a staple of the 70s and a perfect way to capture the Midnights era vibe. Look for wide-leg flares in black or brown corduroy for a cool and casual feel.

A 70s jumpsuit in a dark floral print or a sleek black wide leg number is a bold and confident choice for the Midnights era.

Taylor Swift Debut 

Taylor Swift’s foray into music – marked by her eponymous debut album (although overlooked in the setlist), is rooted in country aesthetics, a style that’s seeing a resurgence thanks to the likes of Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, and Kacey Musgraves.  

This revival is evident in the 43% surge in searches for cowboy boots and a 61% increase for cowboy hats, signalling a strong trend towards country-inspired fashion. It’s a great excuse to get your pair back out again if you bought them for Barbie.  

The Taylor Swift debut era was all about youthful charm and embracing your country roots. Think sparkling butterfly motifs, sweet sundresses, and of course, cowboy boots! Here’s how to capture that iconic style and showcase your inner country cutie:

Sweet and Simple Dresses

Floral prints were a staple in Taylor’s early days. Think sundresses with delicate floral patterns in pastel colors like pink, blue, and lavender. These dresses are perfect for a summer day or a casual concert outfit.

Gingham checks, another country classic, add a touch of preppy sweetness to your look. Opt for a gingham dress in blue and white or pink and white, perfect for picnics or afternoons spent exploring.

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple dress in a solid color. A flowy white dress with a ruffled hem or a babydoll dress in a soft pink exudes effortless charm.

Denim Done Right

A denim skirt is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. Pair it with a cute t-shirt and sneakers for a casual vibe, or dress it up with a blouse and cowboy boots for a more country-inspired look.

 Light wash denim jeans were a signature element of Taylor’s early outfits. Opt for a bootcut or straight-leg style and pair them with a cute top and cowboy boots for a timeless look.

Country-Chic Tops

Plain t-shirts are a blank canvas for adding your personal touch. Look for tees with cute graphics like butterflies, hearts, or even song lyrics from Taylor’s debut album.

A cute button-down shirt in a light blue or pastel pink adds a touch of preppy charm to your outfit. Leave it unbuttoned for a relaxed vibe or tie it at the waist for a more polished look.

Incorporate subtle western details like fringe or embroidery on your tops. A simple white top with fringe detailing on the shoulders or a light blue blouse with embroidered flowers adds a touch of country flair.

Boots Made for Walkin’

No outfit screams “country” quite like a pair of cowboy boots. Brown leather boots are a versatile choice, but don’t be afraid to experiment with colors like black or even white for a more modern take.

For a slightly edgier look, opt for a pair of ankle boots. Chelsea boots or booties with a small heel add a touch of sophistication while still maintaining the country vibe.

Accessorize with Sweetness

Butterflies were a recurring motif in Taylor’s debut era. Embrace this symbol of transformation with a butterfly necklace, earrings, or even a hair clip.

A cute headband or bandana adds a touch of whimsy to your outfit. Choose a floral print headband, a bandana tied around your ponytail, or even a simple bandanna tied around your wrist for a country touch.

Layer delicate bracelets and necklaces for a touch of sweetness. Look for pieces with pearls, hearts, or even charms with song lyrics for a personal touch.

Swifties Fashion

Swifties certainly shouldn’t base their outfit choices on what looks the most visually pleasing, but these findings do go some way to indicating what aspects of each era will be the easiest to procure on the high street, as items that have seen a surge in popularity will be naturally easier to find. 

Whatever you wear to The Eras Tour this year, remember that it’s a long set – around three hours and 15 minutes – so you need to consider comfort as well as aesthetics. Bring a jacket in case you get cold, and make sure that your footwear is practical if you’re walking or using public transport to get home.

–Boohoo