9 Taylor Swift Outfits That Had A Fun Vintage Vibe
Taylor Swift is known for changing up her aesthetic to align with each album release. While maintaining her love for a red lip throughout her career — she has mastered the art of the red lip, after all — Swift has also incorporated vintage elements into every era. Shortly after bursting onto the scene in 2008 with her album "Fearless," she became instantly recognizable for her red lipstick and fondness for Oxford heels. With the release of "Speak Now" in 2010, she continued leaning into Oxford heels, while her bohemian style evolved to include whimsical purple dresses. After her album "Red" launched in 2012, Swift stepped on stage wearing baker-boy hats and sailor-inspired outfits.
In 2014, Swift's wardrobe reflected the influence of her "1989" album, which was defined by tartan prints and '60s-inspired high-waisted shorts. Her 2017 album, "Reputation," pushed her to experiment with grunge-inspired accessories and sequins. In contrast, in 2019, following the release of "Lover," Swift's wardrobe was dominated by shades of pink and purple, along with disco-inspired metallic pieces. During the "Folklore" and "Evermore" era, in 2020, Swift's aesthetic embraced cottagecore influences. After releasing her album "Midnights" in 2022, Swift was frequently seen wearing embellished platform heels and fur coats. Given her commitment to incorporating vintage-inspired elements into every era, it's no surprise that Swift has been caught wearing some outdated trends throughout her career. Nevertheless, her wardrobe preserves a playful vintage charm, never failing to give her outfits a distinctive appeal.
Swift's red lipstick and Oxford heels obsession
In 2014, Taylor Swift was spotted in New York, running errands while wearing her signature Oxford heels and burgundy knee-high socks. Her burnt orange shoes are a classic style that dates back to the 1900s, usually featuring hand-embroidered detailing. Swift topped her look with a burgundy bowler hat and carried a black top-clasp bag, which also gave a nod to her love for vintage classics. Swift has had a full beauty transformation, but her long-lasting relationship with red lipstick has continuously added a vintage touch to her looks.
Swift has embraced polka dots for years
Polka dots are among the most popular vintage prints, and Swift embraced the pattern long before it started trending again in 2024. In 2014, the singer was spotted in New York wearing a polka-dot co-ord consisting of a cropped bralette and a midi skirt. The set, when paired with her signature red lipstick, nodded to the garments worn by women in the 1950s. The dotted skirt featured a central slit that added a daring element to the ensemble, and Swift finished off her look with a Ted Baker handbag and open-toe heels.
Swift welcomed vintage sailor style with open arms
In 2016, Swift was photographed on her way to dinner in New York wearing a sailor-inspired look. Sailor style is deeply rooted in vintage fashion and rose to popularity in the early 20th century. In her homage to the look, she donned navy high-waisted shorts with linear buttons and a white long-sleeved top that boasted striped cuffs and a classic striped sailor's collar. Her staple cherry-red lipstick paired beautifully with her red thigh-high velvet boots, which ultimately stole the show, and seamlessly led the eye up to her shimmering shorts.
Swift embraced Renaissance fashion
When Swift hit the red carpet at the Billboard Music Awards in 2019 wearing a ruffled dress, the silhouette echoed Shakespearean-inspired shirts. Ruffles date back to the Renaissance era and were later revived in the 1960s. Her lilac minidress featured an oversized collar and lace sleeves, and the bodycon style clung to her figure as asymmetric ruffles protruded from the neckline to the hem. The ruffles on the shoulders were significantly bigger and created an hourglass shape, and while she maintained her classic lip, Swift opted for a softer shade of pinkish red.
Swift rocked a velvet tailored suit
At the premiere of "All Too Well" in New York in 2021, Swift arrived at the event wearing a velvet suit. Tailored velvet suits were popularized in the 1960s during the height of Mod fashion trends, because the fabric not only made for a comfortable outfit, but its glossy appearance added an element of luxury. Swift's maroon ensemble featured gold, double-breasted buttons that gave another nod to vintage sailor style. She toned down her color palette for the event, also swapping out her signature red lipstick for a completely natural look instead.
Swift dressed like a flapper girl
During one Eras Tour performance in 2023, Swift performed on stage wearing a layered tassel cocktail dress that paid homage to 1920s flapper-inspired aesthetics. The fun silhouette suited the evening perfectly as it swished and shimmered while Swift danced on stage and under the spotlight. The glistening dress featured an encrusted neckline that added to the regal allure of the look, and Swift balanced the formality of her evening wear by styling her hair in a simple down-do. As she returned to wearing red lipstick, her makeup also added an element of Old Hollywood glamour.
Swift loves vintage prints, especially tartan
In 2024, Swift attended the MTV Video Music Awards wearing a unique layered look. Her outfit featured a yellow-and-black tartan corset — a historic staple in fashion — that extended into an open skirt. Despite its heavy association with Scotland, tartan is also known as a timeless vintage print that can transcend any outfit. She layered the tartan garment over black high-waisted shorts and thigh-high black leather boots, which gave the look a grunge-inspired flair. A pair of edgy black fingerless gloves and a tartan choker seamlessly completed the ensemble.
Swift looked straight out of the '50s
In 2026, Swift was photographed in New York wearing yet another vintage ensemble. She wore a vibrant frock with thick straps and a skater skirt silhouette, which mimicked that of a 1950s summer dress. Swift's red lipstick, which perfectly complemented her cherry-red heels, also nodded to the glamour trends of the 1950s. Considering stripes were also popularized during the decade, Swift proved she could pull off another vintage print, and the blue-and-white striped pattern enhanced her vintage appeal. She topped off the look with a yellow handbag for a pop of color.
Swift made headlines for her groovy look
In 2026, Swift was spotted in New York wearing a '70s-style outfit that blended shades of orange, beige, and blue. Swift has worn some eye-wateringly expensive red carpet outfits, and although this outfit looked relatively understated, the singer actually made headlines for the quiet-luxury look. She donned high-waisted mom jeans and a beige cashmere polo shirt, which featured color-blocked edges and a textured pattern that gave the look an even more retro feel. Her heavy fringe and chunky Gucci platform heels also acknowledged the groovy disco trends that dominated the 1970s.