Believe it or not, Taylor Swift was not born into instant glamour and glitz. Before playing covergirl for Vogue and forming the ultimate #SquadGoals, she was just another small-town songstress with big Hollywood dreams. Who would have even thought? Swift's sartorial evolution at the Grammys mirrors that of her career — from sweet and demure to rebellious and edgy. So long, PG princess.
At first, Swift was the definition of "girl next door" with her angelic ringlets and fairytale frocks. Then, surprise, surprise — life happened. Over the years, the wholesome American sweetheart image matured into the unexpected. Suddenly, Swift was swapping her trademark curls for blunt bangs and shaggy-chic bobs. Wardrobe got a new treatment too — heavy on black, leather and exposed skin.
Music wasn't immune from the transformation either. Fearless was the classic teenage anthem on heartbreak and ex-boyfriends, while 1989 dealt with self-discovery (and of course, one can't forget about the much disputed revenge song/Katy Perry debacle).
Looking back, it is surreal to see how much Swift has progressed in both the style and sound departments. I don't know about you, but a little part of me will always miss the age of T-Swift innocence.
1. 2016
Last year, Swift beared it all with a custom Atelier Versace coral bandeau top and fuschia skirt. Important things to note: those killer abs and that intense skirt slit. Grown-up is a good look on you, Taylor.
2. 2015
Two years ago, Swift went for modern elegance in a teal Elie Saab number. The high-low cut is the best of both worlds — sophisticated at the same time sexy. Alternative title: If Taylor Swift Had A Mermaid Dream Dress.
3. 2014
In 2014, all eyes were on Swift's gold metallic Gucci dress, decked out in glittery goodness. She also referred to this number as her "suit of armor" — essentially, Gucci as her suit of armor. Casual.
4. 2013
2013: the year Swift goes Grecian goddess. I can't stop obsessing over her ethereal J. Mendel gown, complete with plunging neckline and total Venus vibes.
5. 2012
2012 was the same year that Swift snagged not one, but two Grammys for "Mean". It's also the same year she stunned in a nude Zuhair Murad mermaid gown. I'm particularly digging the art deco feel.
6. 2010
2010-era Taylor is giving me a huge case of nostalgia. I mean, just look at that sparkly KaufmanFranco frock — safe and innocent but with an edge.
7. 2009
Perhaps Swift's current penchant for witchy ensembles stems from her '09 days? Once upon a time, she rocked a simple black KaufmanFranco dress. It is also necessary to remind everyone this was the year of the Great Kanye vs. Taylor Feud.
8. 2008
Haven't you ever wondered what Taylor Swift wore to her first ever Grammys in 2008? She was barely eighteen — oh, how time flies.
Swift made her Grammys debut in a custom lavender silk Sandi Spika gown. Throw in frosted eye makeup and her signature ringlets and you've got the recipe for the OG Taylor Swift.
