Taylor Swift's VMAs appearance showcased a bold departure, sporting a tartan-inspired outfit, diverging from her typical fashion signature.
The vibrant tartan was reminiscent of a popular icon from the '90s: The stylish Dolce and Gabbana blazer and pleated skirt, famously worn by Cher Horowitz, a character from the movie "Clueless" (playing by Alicia Silverstone in 1995). Interestingly, Dior has paid homage to this classic on-screen outfit before. In 2022, Natalie Portman donned a similar two-piece for a Halloween costume, while Blackpink's Jisoo strutted down the runway in a version during the Dior Fall-Winter 2022 show in Paris.
However, Taylor Swift's rendition, with its edgy touches like black buckles, a collar, and a zipped fitted front, was by far the most rebellious. She completed the look with velvet shorts, thigh-high boots, and gloves, all reminiscent of Dior's 2025 Cruise collection, which was inspired by Scottish craft traditions and Mary, Queen of Scots. As the notes from Dior's founder, Christian Dior, mentioned, tartan is "the only fancy fabric that resists fashions." On the runway, models showcased gothic plaid pieces, strutting through the grand gardens of Drummond Castle in Perthshire, Scotland.
Swift's appearance on Wednesday night was a significant departure from her usual red carpet style. The global sensation is known for her liberal use of crystals, diamonds, and sequins, often sticking to classic silhouettes and glamorous gowns. Even her signature red lipstick was replaced by a dramatic black smokey eye.
Swift's triumph at the Video Music Awards was noteworthy, as she collected seven of the event's "Moon Person" trophies, including the coveted prize for Video of the Year for "Fortnight" with Post Malone. They also won the Best Collaboration award, and Swift used her acceptance speech to honor the memories of those affected by the September 11 attacks.
"I've just been thinking about what happened 23 years ago, everyone who lost a loved one and everyone we lost," she said on stage. Her presence at the VMAs came just a day after she endorsed Kamala Harris for the U.S. presidency, a move that garnered headlines worldwide.
Leah Dolan contributed to this report.
This tartan design echoes the fashion trend popularized by the iconic '90s movie "Clueless," specifically the stylish ensemble worn by Cher Horowitz. Taylor Swift's rebellious take on the look, seen at the Video Music Awards, featured edgy touches and elements reminiscent of Dior's 2025 Cruise collection, showcasing the timeless allure of this fashionable Scottish fabric.
