I have come to think of Taylor Swift’s style not just as music, but as a general aesthetic or framework, with some commonalities across the diverse eras.
But whether or not you are inspired by that particular pop-star aesthetic, I think among those common attributes are valuable takeaways that can be applied to any personal style.
So today I am breaking down which haircuts defined each season of her life, and why they worked so well.
1. Straight Hair with Full Bangs (Red Era)
I find myself reaching for a straightener every time I see photos from the Red era. This was a major shift from her previous looks and offered a much more modern aesthetic.
I am obsessed with how the signature bangs framed her face during this time.
You likely remember seeing this edgy style in the “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” video, and it truly gave off such a cool girl vibe.
2. Bold Platinum (2016 Met Gala)
If you want to talk about a look that screams confidence, this is the one. Taylor stepped out at the 2016 Met Gala with an icy platinum blonde color that was a total departure from her usual honey tones.
The tousled bob paired with the stark color was insanely cool and proved she isn’t afraid to take a risk. I love that this look showed a whole new side of her personality.
We obviously have to talk about where it all began. In 2006, Taylor was instantly recognizable by her signature blonde ringlets.
These tight curls were a massive part of her country image and added to that youthful charm she was known for. She wore this natural texture on countless red carpets, and it really solidified her spot as a sweet country darling.
4. Short Bob (1989 Era)
This cut was a major game changer. In 2014, she chopped her long locks into a chic blunt bob that felt fresh and sophisticated.
It was playful but still felt very elevated, which mirrored her full transition into the pop music world.
I personally think this cut highlighted her freedom and confidence during the 1989 chapter of her life.
5. Beachy Waves (Lover Era)
The Lover era brought us a much softer and more romantic aesthetic that I still dream about. These carefree, wavy strands were the perfect match for the whimsical nature of the album.
The relaxed texture gives off an effortless vibe that feels very “I woke up like this” but in the best way possible. It captures that light hearted feeling of being in love.
6. Romantic Updos (Fearless / Love Story Era)
If you prefer a more polished look, this era serves up the perfect definition of fairytale style.
Taylor leaned into elegant, loose curls that were often swept up and accessorized with headbands or flowers.
It was a dreamy look that perfectly matched her storytelling lyrics. I love that she embraced that princess vibe so fully during this time.
7. Straight With Birkin Bangs (Eras Tour)
For the massive Eras Tour, Taylor opted for straight hair paired with trendy Birkin bangs, and it is honestly such a vibe.
This sleek style is understated yet elegant, which allows it to work with every single costume change during the show. It has quickly become one of her most iconic looks to date.
8. Sleek Ponytail
You can never go wrong with a classic ponytail. Taylor often chose this sleek style for her high energy performances because it is practical but still looks incredibly put together.
Whether she wore it high or low, it added a level of sophistication that worked for both the stage and the red carpet.
9. Shaggy Lob (Reputation Era)
The Reputation era was all about darker aesthetics, and this shaggy lob fit the mood perfectly.
The texture of this cut gave her a serious rock and roll edge that matched the themes of reinvention on the album. I’m a big fan of the moody vibe here.
10. Tousled Waves & Parted Bangs (Midnights Era)
This look feels both nostalgic and totally current. The tousled waves combined with the parted bangs create a laid back feel that frames her face beautifully.
It is a sophisticated twist on her past styles that fits the late night vibe of the Midnights album perfectly.
11. Chic Lob with Sideswept Bangs
Another win from the 1989 era was this long bob featuring side swept bangs. This cut offered the elegance of longer hair while keeping the manageability of a shorter length.
It was versatile enough for her to whip her hair around on stage while still looking chic for appearances.
12. Sideswept Retro Curls (Speak Now Era)
I absolutely adore the old Hollywood glamour of the Speak Now era. Taylor was known for these retro inspired curls that were swept to the side for maximum volume.
It added a level of maturity and sophistication to her look that really highlighted her growth as an artist during this time.
13. Braided Updo (Folklore/Evermore Era)
When Folklore and Evermore dropped, Taylor leaned hard into the cottagecore aesthetic. Her signature look became these intricate braided updos that were simple yet so beautiful.
It exuded a rustic elegance that was practical for her acoustic performances but still looked like art.
Final Thoughts
Taylor Swift’s hair journey is honestly just as impressive as her discography.
Each look really tells a specific story about where she was in her life and career. Her ability to constantly switch things up keeps us all on our toes wondering what she will do next.
She has truly cemented her status as a style icon by embracing change and taking risks.
Whether you are a die hard fan or just love good hair, there is no denying she has made a major impact. I hope this inspired you to maybe try a new look yourself!