Taylor Swift’s 1989 era was a defining moment in her career. Not only did she release an album that topped the charts and received critical acclaim, but she also underwent a transformation in terms of her style. From her music videos to her stage performances, every aspect of Taylor’s image exuded confidence, playfulness, and boldness. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of her most iconic outfits from the 1989 tour, how they represented the evolution of her style, and their impact on fashion trends.
Overview of the 1989 Tour
The 1989 tour kicked off in 2015 and spanned over a year, with 85 shows across four continents. It was a massive success, grossing over $250 million and breaking attendance records in several cities. The tour showcased a more mature and polished version of Taylor, with elaborate sets, choreography, and costume changes that brought her songs to life. The fashion choices for the tour were carefully curated to reflect the overall theme of the album – a journey of self-discovery, growth, and embracing one’s true self.
Signature Styles and Themes
One of the defining elements of Taylor’s 1989 era was the use of bold colors and patterns. This was a departure from her previous country-inspired looks, which were predominantly soft and muted. The tour outfits reflected a newfound confidence and playfulness, with vibrant hues like red, blue, and yellow dominating the stage. The use of geometric and floral prints, as well as stripes and polka dots, added a dynamic and youthful touch to her wardrobe.
In terms of silhouettes, there were a few recurring styles that became synonymous with Taylor’s 1989 era. The crop top, high-waisted bottoms, and matching sets were staples in her concert outfits, showcasing her toned figure and channeling a retro vibe. She also experimented with different necklines, from plunging V-necks to halter tops, adding variety and visual interest to her looks. Overall, the signature styles of the 1989 tour were a perfect blend of sophistication and playfulness, reflecting Taylor’s evolution as an artist.
Specific Iconic Outfits
It’s impossible to talk about Taylor Swift’s 1989 tour without mentioning some of her most iconic outfits. Let’s take a closer look at a few of them and the impact they had on fashion trends.
The Sparkly Crop Top and High-Waisted Shorts Combo
This outfit was one of the first looks to kick off the 1989 tour, and it set the tone for what was to come. Taylor wore a sparkly silver crop top with matching high-waisted shorts, both adorned with sequins and beads. She paired this with metallic ankle boots and completed the look with her signature red lipstick and a messy bob haircut. This look became synonymous with the 1989 era, representing confidence, youthfulness, and a touch of glamour. It also sparked a trend of high-waisted bottoms, which became a go-to style for many fashion-forward individuals.
The Colorful Romper
Another memorable outfit from the tour was the colorful romper that Taylor wore during a performance of “New Romantics.” The romper featured a bold mix of colors and patterns, including stripes and floral prints, making it a true representation of the 1989 aesthetic. She paired this with knee-high boots and a red beret, adding a playful and whimsical touch to the ensemble. The romper became a popular clothing item among fans, with many trying to replicate Taylor’s look or find similar styles.
The Black and White Jumpsuit
Taylor stunned in a black and white striped jumpsuit during her performance of “Blank Space” on the tour. The jumpsuit featured a halter neckline and a flared pant, adding a retro-inspired touch to the look. She paired this with black ankle boots and red lipstick, giving off a classic Hollywood glam vibe. This outfit was a perfect example of how Taylor’s style evolved from her country roots to a more sophisticated and mature aesthetic.
Designers and Brands Involved
With such an elaborate and visually stunning tour, it’s no surprise that many designers and brands were involved in creating Taylor’s outfits. Some notable names include Balmain, Elie Saab, Marc Jacobs, and Versace. Taylor’s fashion choices for the tour also featured pieces from high-end brands like Saint Laurent, Oscar de la Renta, and Alexander McQueen. However, she also incorporated more affordable options, such as Topshop, ASOS, and H&M, making her outfits accessible to fans of all budgets.
Accessory Highlights
Aside from her stunning outfits, Taylor also accessorized with statement pieces that added an extra layer of flair to her looks. Some noteworthy accessories from the 1989 tour include the custom-made Swarovski crystal cat ears that she wore during performances of her song “Style.” These became a fan favorite and were even sold as merchandise at the shows. Another standout accessory was the harness belt that Taylor wore with a black crop top and high-waisted skirt, adding an edgy and unexpected element to the look.
Hair and Makeup Trends
Taylor’s hair and makeup also underwent a transformation during the 1989 era. She ditched her signature curls for a straight, sleek bob that perfectly complemented her new style. Her makeup also became bolder and more daring, with vibrant eyeshadows, winged eyeliner, and bold lips becoming her go-to looks. She also experimented with different hair colors, including a brief stint with platinum blonde, showing that she was not afraid to take risks and switch things up.
Fan Reactions and Popularity
The 1989 tour became a global phenomenon, with fans flocking to see Taylor perform live and catch a glimpse of her iconic outfits. The concert also received rave reviews from critics, with many praising the elaborate production and seamless integration of fashion into the show. Fans took to social media to share their love for Taylor’s outfits, often expressing a desire to recreate her looks or find similar pieces. The tour gained even more popularity when it was released as a concert film on Apple Music, giving fans a chance to relive the experience.
Impact on Fashion Trends
There’s no doubt that Taylor’s 1989 era had a significant impact on fashion trends, both in terms of street style and high fashion. The use of bold colors and patterns, as well as the incorporation of crop tops and high-waisted bottoms, became prevalent in the fashion world. Many designers drew inspiration from Taylor’s outfits for their collections, and these trends continue to be seen on runways and in everyday fashion. The 1989 tour outfits have become timeless and iconic looks that will continue to influence fashion for years to come.
Where to Find Similar Styles
If you’re looking to channel Taylor Swift’s 1989 era in your own wardrobe, there are plenty of options available. Many retailers offer crop tops, high-waisted pants, and colorful prints that can help you recreate her signature looks. You can also check out some of the brands that were involved in creating Taylor’s tour outfits, as they may offer similar styles or collaborations. Additionally, vintage and thrift stores can be a great source for unique and retro-inspired pieces like the ones Taylor wore on tour.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift’s 1989 tour was a visual feast, showcasing not only her musical talent but also her impeccable sense of style. Through her wardrobe choices, Taylor embodied the themes of her album and showed the world a more confident, playful, and bold version of herself. Her outfits became iconic and influential, leaving a lasting mark on fashion trends and inspiring fans to embrace their individuality. The 1989 era was truly a tapestry of style, and it will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic moments in Taylor Swift’s career.
