PHOTOS: Taylor Swift Costumes and Easter Eggs at London Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has opened an exciting new exhibition dedicated to Taylor Swift, coinciding with her much-anticipated return to the city for her Eras Tour later this summer.

The exhibition, called the Taylor Swift Songbook Trail, features 13 “chapters,” each representing different eras of Swift’s illustrious musical career. It comes to life with clothing, items, and accessories loaned from her personal archive, creating an engaging dialogue with the museum’s permanent collection.

As stated by the museum’s senior curator of theater and performance, Kate Bailey, the exhibition is a collaborative effort designed to appeal to both Swifties and general visitors. Throughout the Songbook Trail, numerous Easter eggs are scattered, making it a delightful experience for die-hard fans.

Visitors will start their journey in Room 126, Britain (Level 3), where they will encounter the iconic playboy millionaire ensemble Swift wore in “The Man” music video. The display features a Versace shirt, Tommy Bahama trousers, a wig, and facial hair, along with her director’s chair and a VMA Award. This playful nod to Swift’s critique of the patriarchy is flanked by mosaics celebrating male artistry.

Next, in Room 119, Britain (Level 3), attendees will find a stage costume from Swift’s 2018 “Reputation” tour. The sequin-adorned dress by Jessica Jones, Christian Louboutin boots, and a snake-adorned microphone encapsulate the era’s aesthetic. The display is accentuated with a large poster featuring “Reputation” artwork, bringing fans back to this monumental period in her career.

In Room 52b, The Norfolk House Music Room (Level 1), the gown worn by Swift on the back cover of the “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)” album gets its moment. Designed by Reem Acra, this ethereal dress is accompanied by Capezio ballet shoes and a ukulele played on the “Speak Now” World Tour. The music room’s motif-filled paneling adds a harmonious touch to the display.

In Room 54a, Britain (Level 1), fans can find items from the “Red” era. On display are the cap from the “Red (Taylor’s Version)” album cover and the Tadashi Shoji dress from the “I Bet You Think About Me” music video. The lavish backdrop, complete with an upholstered bed and ornate tapestry, encapsulates the luxurious feel of the “Red” era.

Moving to Room 48a, The Raphael Cartoons (Level 0), visitors can observe a theatrical costume from Swift’s first headline tour, the “Fearless” tour. The Elizabethan-style dress, worn during “Love Story” performances, is displayed on a high balcony, paying homage to the Romeo and Juliet theme.

In the same room, the “1989” tour outfits are displayed in gilded frames near Renaissance artworks by Raphael. These include a sequined catsuit by Zuhair Murad and a crop top ensemble by Jessica Jones. This chapter showcases Swift’s transition into pop stardom, mirroring the era’s artistic breakthroughs.

In Room 40, Fashion (Level 0), an outfit from Swift’s early career while opening for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill can be found. A turquoise tulle dress paired with customized cowboy boots marks her country roots. The ensemble is displayed alongside a guitar and in front of an 18th-century fresco by Paul Sandby.

In Room 82, Paintings (Level 2), the Victorian-inspired dress from the “Willow” music video from her “Evermore” era is showcased. The installation complements the gallery’s Victorian paintings, highlighting Swift’s imaginative storytelling.

Nearby, in Room 87, Paintings (Level 2), Swift’s “Folklore” cardigan is draped over a moss-covered piano. This display epitomizes the album’s tender and introspective tone, set against landscape paintings by John Constable.

In Room 110, Prince Consort Gallery (Level 2), the opulent ball gown from the “Bejeweled” music video from her “Midnights” album is on display. Alongside this, the sultry Oscar de la Renta mini dress from the 2022 VMAs is also featured, celebrating Swift’s modern-day glamour.

Throughout the same gallery, Swift’s cultural legacy is celebrated with various items: memorable magazine covers, physical copies of her “Taylor’s Version” re-records, and Eras Tour friendship bracelets. The corridor also features the shirt dress worn when she was awarded Artist of the Decade at the 2019 AMAs.

In Room 25, Sculpture (Level 0), the focus shifts to Swift’s current “The Tortured Poets Department” era. Displayed is the Victorian-inspired ensemble from the “Fortnight” music video, alongside an antique typewriter and sculptural pages. The area connects Swift’s literary themes with the museum’s sculptural pieces.

The journey concludes in Room 64b, Medieval and Renaissance (Level 1), with a glimpse into Swift’s childhood and teenage years. Displaying childhood photographs and clips from “The Best Day” music video, this final stop provides an intimate look at her formative years.

The Taylor Swift | Songbook Trail will be available at the V&A until September 8, 2024.

Source: Victoria & Albert Museum