Unless you have been living under a rock, then you have likely heard the news that Taylor Swift is about to enter a new music era. This week, the pop star announced that she will soon release her 12th studio album, titled The Life of a Showgirl. Not much is known about the project just yet—including its overall sound, cover, or even when it will grace our ears—but the title alone has been enough to garner some major intrigue amongst Swifties.
The album title’s nod to showgirls certainly evokes a specific aesthetic to look forward to. When you think of showgirls, you think of over-the-top Las Vegas glamour—a fabulous wardrobe resplendent in various textures like crystals, sequins, and feathers. You think of shimmer, and you think of excess. And while time will tell if Swift leans into such disco ball dressing for the new musical chapter, her life in looks thus far has proven that she is already well-suited for the transformation to come. In fact, lets not even call it a transformation—rather a continuation of what she already does best.
Taylor Swift, a true showgirl, wearing Reem Acra back in 2011.
Video: Getty Images
Both on the red carpets and on stage, Swift has long favored a dazzling design that is heavy on glitter and shine. Since she first burst onto the scene in the late 2000s, Swift has leaned into showmanship with her fashion choices (owing much of that look to longtime stylist, Joseph Cassell Falconer). Whether she has been performing for fans or attending awards ceremonies like the Grammys or MTV VMAs, the singer has consistently worn shining, theatrical pieces.
Back at the 2009 VMAs (yes, the year Kanye West interrupted her speech), she donned a one-shouldered Kaufman Franco gown in hues of silver. It practically demanded a stage and spotlight. The same could be said for her 2019 iHeartRadio Awards look—a purple sequined Rosa Bloom romper that could easily be replicated for a showy Vegas production.
Glittering in Gucci at the 2024 Golden Globes.
Video: Getty Images
More recently, Swift’s record-breaking Eras tour delivered some of her most extravagant stage costumes to date. Whether it was the crystal-covered Versace bodysuits or the bejeweled Roberto Cavalli jumpsuits, Swift wore statement looks that could be seen from the nosebleed section. You could say her tour outfits made the whole place shimmmeerrrrrrrr.
Below, more of Swift’s best showgirl looks over the years.
