At the MTV Video Music Awards on Wednesday, Taylor Swift stood out by embracing ’90s fashion with a bold twist, donning a chic taffeta bustier and skirt by Dior. Her outfit featured a striking yellow tartan, a nod to one of the decade’s most memorable styles: the preppy Dolce & Gabbana blazer and pleated skirt famously worn by Cher Horowitz, the character portrayed by Alicia Silverstone in the 1995 film “Clueless.” This sartorial reference to the iconic film reflects a broader trend, as Dior has previously paid homage to the classic look. In 2022, Natalie Portman sported a similar ensemble for a Halloween event, and Blackpink’s Jisoo showcased a version during the Dior Fall-Winter 2022 show in Paris.
However, Swift’s interpretation of the tartan trend took on a distinctly edgy flair. Her outfit, straight from Dior’s 2025 Cruise collection, was marked by punk-inspired accents such as black buckles, a collar, and a zipped fitted front. The collection, which drew inspiration from Scottish heritage and Mary, Queen of Scots, featured gothic plaid designs, setting a dramatic tone that contrasted with the traditional preppy aesthetic. Swift’s ensemble was completed with velvet shorts, thigh-high boots, and gloves, embodying a more rebellious spirit compared to the classic preppy look of the ’90s.
This VMAs appearance represented a significant departure from Swift’s usual red carpet style. Known for her penchant for sparkling crystals, diamonds, sequins, and classic glamorous gowns, Swift’s choice to embrace a more edgy, punk-inspired look was unexpected. Her dramatic black smoky eye makeup replaced her usual signature red lipstick, further emphasizing the shift in her style for this event.
Swift’s fashion statement at the VMAs was complemented by her success at the ceremony, where she won seven “Moon Person” trophies, including the prestigious Video of the Year award for her collaboration with Post Malone on the song “Fortnight.” The pair also received the Best Collaboration award. During her acceptance speech for Best Collaboration, Swift took a moment to reflect on the September 11 attacks, honoring the memory of those who lost their lives and acknowledging the tragedy’s lasting impact.
Swift’s VMAs appearance was particularly notable given that it followed her endorsement of Kamala Harris for the US presidency, a political move that garnered widespread media attention. Her choice of attire and her public endorsements underscore her evolving role as a cultural and political influencer, further cementing her position as a dynamic and multifaceted figure in the entertainment industry.
