1. Introduction: The Evolution of Taylor Swift’s Iconic Hair
Taylor Swift’s hair has been just as transformative as her music. From her early days of soft country curls to the sleek, edgy bob of 1989, and the moody, dark waves of Reputation, her hairstyles have reflected every new chapter in her career. Whether she’s embracing romantic vintage curls or effortless modern bangs, Taylor’s hair has become a signature part of her evolving aesthetic.
Each era tells a story. The Fearless era was all about spiral curls and natural texture, while Red introduced polished waves and side-swept bangs. With 1989, Taylor went full-on pop star mode, rocking a sleek bob with a deep side part. Then came Reputation, where she embraced messy, rock-and-roll waves with darker, more mysterious tones. The Lover era softened things again with whimsical, pastel-tinted hair, while Folklore and Evermore saw her leaning into boho-chic, undone waves. Now, with Midnights, Taylor is back to elegant, Old Hollywood glamour, with polished waves and full bangs.
Want to recreate Taylor’s most iconic hairstyles at home? This guide will break down her best looks, from voluminous curls to sleek, straight styles, so you can channel your favorite Taylor era—whether you’re feeling Fearless or deep in your Reputation era.
2. Taylor’s Signature Hairstyles Through the Eras
Taylor Swift’s hair has evolved just as dramatically as her music, with each era bringing a fresh, defining look. Here’s a breakdown of her most iconic styles over the years:
Fearless Era (2008-2010): Big, Bouncy Golden Curls
Taylor’s signature spiral curls were the essence of her country-pop beginnings. Voluminous, playful, and effortlessly youthful, this style became synonymous with her early hits like Love Story and You Belong with Me.
Red Era (2012-2013): Straight Hair with Blunt Bangs
For Red, Taylor swapped her curls for sleek, straight locks and bold blunt bangs, reflecting her shift to a more mature, emotional sound. This polished yet dramatic look was seen in I Knew You Were Trouble and her iconic 22 music video.
1989 Era (2014-2016): Chic, Short Bob with Side-Swept Bangs
Embracing her full pop star reinvention, Taylor chopped her hair into a chic bob with a deep side part, often styled in textured waves. This fresh, modern look defined the Shake It Off and Blank Space era.
Reputation Era (2017-2018): Messy Shag with Textured Waves
Darker, edgier, and more mysterious, Taylor’s Reputation look featured choppy layers, curtain bangs, and tousled waves—perfectly complementing the rebellious vibe of Look What You Made Me Do.
Lover Era (2019-2020): Soft, Romantic Curls with Pastel Tones
Returning to a more whimsical aesthetic, Taylor’s Lover era brought back long, soft curls with pastel hues, embracing a dreamy, romantic feel seen in ME! and You Need to Calm Down.
Folklore/Evermore Era (2020-2021): Low-Key Braids and Wispy Bangs
For her indie-folk phase, Taylor embraced natural, undone hairstyles—think loose braids, soft waves, and airy bangs, mirroring the ethereal storytelling of Cardigan and Willow.
Midnights Era (2022-Present): Sleek Side Part with Hollywood Waves
Taylor’s latest era channels Old Hollywood glam, featuring deep side parts, glossy waves, and bold bangs, seen in Bejeweled and Lavender Haze. This sophisticated, polished style reflects her evolution into a timeless icon.
No matter which Taylor era speaks to you, there’s a hairstyle to match!
3. Recreating Taylor’s Classic Country Curls (Fearless Era)
Taylor Swift’s Fearless era was all about those signature big, bouncy curls—a look that defined her country-pop roots. Here’s how you can achieve her iconic spiral curls with a modern touch.
What You Need:
· Small curling iron (¾-inch barrel) for tight, defined curls
· Heat protectant to shield your hair from damage
· Mousse for added texture and hold
· Light-hold hairspray to keep curls bouncy without stiffness
The Process:
1. Apply mousse to damp hair and blow-dry.
Start with clean, damp hair and apply a volumizing mousse to enhance texture.
Blow-dry using a diffuser attachment to boost natural waves and create a voluminous base.
2. Use a ¾-inch curling iron to curl small sections.
Divide your hair into small sections and wrap each around the iron.
Curl away from the face for Taylor’s signature look.
Hold each curl for about 8-10 seconds, then release gently.
3. Scrunch with a light-hold spray for long-lasting volume.
Once all sections are curled, lightly run your fingers through the curls to separate them.
Flip your hair upside down and scrunch with a light-hold hairspray to keep curls bouncy and full.
Modern Twist:
Looser curls with a center part for a more relaxed, effortless vibe.
Use a larger curling wand (1-inch barrel) for softer waves instead of tight ringlets.
Finish with a shine serum to create a polished, modern take on this classic look.
With this simple routine, you’ll be rocking Fearless-era curls just like Taylor—perfect for both casual and glamorous moments!
4. The Chic Straight Hair + Blunt Bangs (Red Era)
Taylor Swift’s Red era marked a shift toward a sleek, sophisticated look with pin-straight hair and bold blunt bangs. This style exudes confidence and elegance, making it perfect for those who love a polished aesthetic.
What You Need:
· Flat iron for a smooth, straight finish
· Smoothing serum to control frizz and add shine
· Round brush for perfectly styled bangs
· Heat protectant to prevent damage
The Process:
1. Blow-dry bangs with a round brush for a soft curve.
Start with clean, damp hair and apply a heat protectant.
Use a round brush to blow-dry your bangs, pulling them slightly forward and curving them under for a soft, face-framing effect.
2. Straighten hair with a flat iron in small sections.
Work in thin sections, running the flat iron slowly from roots to ends for a pin-straight finish.
Keep the iron at a medium heat setting to avoid unnecessary heat damage.
For bangs, lightly pass the flat iron over them to keep them smooth but still soft and natural.
3. Apply a lightweight serum for shine and sleekness.
Rub a pea-sized amount of smoothing serum between your hands and lightly run it over your hair.
Focus on the ends to prevent frizz while keeping the look sleek but not greasy.
Best For:
· Medium to long hair lengths.
· Those who love structured, polished hairstyles.
· Anyone looking to channel Red-era Taylor with a bold, confident edge.
Modern Twist:
Tuck the hair behind one ear for a sophisticated asymmetrical look.
Add soft waves to the ends for a slightly relaxed feel.
With this timeless yet trendy style, you’ll be serving Red-era glamour—whether you’re heading to a concert or just want to elevate your everyday look!
5. The 1989-Era Bob: Edgy Yet Feminine
Taylor Swift’s 1989 era was all about reinvention, and her chic, side-swept bob became just as iconic as the music. This style is the perfect blend of effortless, edgy, and feminine, making it a go-to for anyone wanting a bold yet wearable look.
What You Need:
· 1-inch curling wand for soft, tousled waves
· Texturizing spray to add volume and hold
· Bobby pins for securing the side flip
· Heat protectant to keep hair healthy
The Process:
1. Use a 1-inch curling wand for loose waves.
Start with dry hair and apply a heat protectant.
Take small sections and wrap them loosely around the curling wand.
Alternate the curl direction for a more natural, undone effect.
Let the curls cool before running your fingers through them to soften the look.
2. Flip hair to one side for an effortlessly voluminous effect.
Taylor’s signature bob always had drama and volume.
Flip your hair to one side for that effortless, deep-side-parted effect.
Use bobby pins to secure the heavier side for extra hold.
3. Set with a texturizing spray for a slightly undone look.
Spritz a lightweight texturizing spray throughout your hair.
Scrunch gently to enhance the tousled, lived-in vibe.
If needed, tease the roots for a bit more lift and body.
Best For:
· Short to medium-length hair.
· Those who want a modern, stylish bob with minimal effort.
· Anyone looking to channel 1989-era confidence and cool.
Modern Twist:
Keep the waves sleeker for a more polished red carpet finish.
Add subtle highlights for extra dimension and movement.
This 1989-era bob is the ultimate power move—flirty, sophisticated, and perfect for turning heads!
6. Recreating Taylor’s Reputation Shaggy Waves
Taylor Swift’s Reputation era was all about breaking the mold, and her shaggy, textured waves perfectly matched the rebellious, edgy aesthetic of this chapter. Unlike her previous polished styles, this look embraced effortless movement, volume, and an undone finish—making it perfect for those who love a little rockstar energy in their hair.
Why It’s Iconic:
· A bold departure from Taylor’s sleek and structured styles.
· Adds grit and attitude to any outfit.
· Perfect for those who love a messy-yet-stylish, lived-in look.
How to Style:
1. Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair.
This step is key to creating texture and body.
Work a generous amount of volumizing mousse through damp hair, focusing on the roots for lift.
Let hair air-dry slightly before moving to the next step.
2. Blow-dry roughly for a textured, undone finish.
Instead of using a brush for sleekness, flip your head upside down while drying to build natural volume.
Use your fingers to scrunch and separate strands for that tousled, rockstar look.
If needed, use a diffuser attachment to enhance natural waves.
3. Use a curling iron sparingly to enhance natural movement.
Taylor’s Reputation waves aren’t uniform or over-styled.
Grab a 1.25-inch curling iron and wrap random sections loosely for added shape.
Keep the ends straight for that intentionally undone vibe.
4. Finish with a lightweight texturizing spray.
Spritz texturizing spray or dry shampoo for an effortlessly gritty, tousled finish.
Scrunch the hair gently to separate waves and build movement.
Modern Twist:
Add a deep side part for an extra dose of drama.
Use matte styling paste for a more piece-y, edgy look.
Keep strands intentionally messy—imperfection is the goal here!
Best For:
· Medium to long hair with natural texture.
· Anyone looking to channel rebellious, fearless energy in their style.
· Those who love effortless, undone waves that still make a statement.
Taylor’s Reputation waves are cool without trying too hard—just like the era itself!
7. Lover Era Soft Waves & Pastel Hues
Taylor Swift’s Lover era was all about romance, whimsy, and dreamy aesthetics, and her hair perfectly reflected this theme. She traded in her edgy Reputation waves for soft, flowing curls with subtle pastel streaks, capturing the pastel dreaminess of the album’s visuals. This style is perfect for festival season, spring/summer events, or anyone who loves a playful, ethereal vibe.
What You Need:
✔ Curling iron (1-inch barrel) – for soft, bouncy waves.
✔ Temporary pastel hair chalk or dye – for a fun, dreamy pop of color.
✔ Shine-enhancing spray – to keep waves glossy and luminous.
The Process:
1. Curl hair into soft, romantic waves.
Start with dry hair and apply a light heat protectant.
Use a 1-inch curling iron, curling sections away from the face for a soft, open look.
Gently shake out the curls with your fingers for an effortless, flowy texture.
2. Add pastel streaks for a dreamy effect.
Take small sections of hair and apply temporary pastel hair chalk or spray for a hint of color.
Focus on face-framing pieces and ends for a subtle, blended effect.
If using hair chalk, seal with a light mist of hairspray to lock in the color.
3. Finish with a shine-enhancing spray.
To keep the look soft and radiant, spritz on a lightweight shine spray or hair oil.
Avoid heavy products—Lover waves should feel light, airy, and bouncy.
Best For:
✔ Spring & summer vibes—perfect for warm-weather events.
✔ Festival season—pastel streaks add a playful, colorful touch.
✔ Medium to long hair—to fully embrace the soft, flowing curls.
Modern Twist:
Instead of pastel streaks, try pearlescent highlights for a more sophisticated glow.
If you prefer heatless styling, braid damp hair overnight for natural waves.
Pair with pearl clips or delicate accessories to enhance the Lover-esque magic.
Taylor’s Lover era hair is the perfect blend of romantic, playful, and dreamy—just like the album itself!
8. Folklore & Evermore Era: Cozy Braids & Wispy Bangs
Taylor Swift’s Folklore and Evermore eras embraced a soft, natural aesthetic, perfectly matching the dreamy, cottagecore vibes of her music. Her cozy braids and wispy bangs give off an effortless, bohemian feel—perfect for days when you want a romantic yet low-maintenance hairstyle.
What You Need:
✔ Small hair elastics – to secure braids discreetly.
✔ Texture spray – for volume and an undone, natural finish.
How to Style:
1. Create loose face-framing bangs.
If you have bangs, lightly curl or tousle them for a soft, feathered effect.
If not, pull a few strands loose around your face to mimic the wispy look.
2. Braid small sections of hair for a bohemian, effortless look.
Take thin sections and loosely braid them on both sides of your head.
Secure the braids with small elastics and gently pull them apart for a relaxed feel.
For a more undone look, leave some strands out to frame your face.
3. Add hair accessories (ribbons, pearl clips) for extra charm.
Tie a ribbon at the end of your braid for a vintage, whimsical touch.
Use pearl or floral clips to add a subtle, ethereal detail.
Keep accessories minimal to maintain the effortless vibe.
Best For:
✔ A natural, low-maintenance style that still looks put together.
✔ Boho-chic lovers who want a romantic, whimsical aesthetic.
✔ All hair types—works with straight, wavy, or curly textures.
Modern Twist:
Instead of braids, try twisted rope braids for a unique take.
Add tiny gold rings throughout the braid for an edgier feel.
For extra volume, gently tease the crown before braiding.
Taylor’s Folklore and Evermore hair is all about softness, nostalgia, and effortless beauty—perfect for channeling your inner woodland fairy.
9. The Hollywood Waves of Midnights Era
Taylor Swift’s Midnights era embraces sultry, old-Hollywood glamour, and nothing captures that better than her signature glossy waves. This look, inspired by her Grammys and VMAs red carpet appearances, is perfect for anyone wanting a timeless, polished style with a modern twist.
What You Need:
✔ Large barrel curling iron (1.5-inch) – for creating soft, uniform waves.
✔ Shine spray – to achieve a sleek, luminous finish.
✔ Setting clips – to hold curls in place while they cool.
The Process:
1. Use a 1.5-inch curling iron to create classic waves.
Start with dry, heat-protected hair.
Curl all sections in the same direction (toward the face for a vintage effect).
Pin each curl in place with setting clips while it cools to lock in the shape.
2. Brush through for a seamless, polished finish.
Once the curls have cooled, remove the clips and gently brush through with a soft-bristle brush.
This step merges the curls into smooth waves, creating that signature Hollywood look.
If needed, reshape the waves with your fingers and a bit of light-hold hairspray.
3. Apply shine spray for a red-carpet-worthy glow.
A few spritzes of shine-enhancing spray will add a glossy, luxe finish.
If you want extra hold, mist a light layer of flexible hairspray to keep the waves in place.
Best For:
✔ Medium to long hair – works best with layered cuts.
✔ Formal events – weddings, parties, or red-carpet moments.
✔ A polished, timeless look that exudes confidence.
Modern Twist:
Deep side part for extra drama.
Tuck one side behind the ear for a chic, asymmetrical effect.
Add hair gems or pearl pins for a Midnights-inspired celestial touch.
These Hollywood waves are the perfect way to channel Taylor’s sophisticated, Midnight-era glow—elevating any look with effortless elegance.
10. FAQs: Taylor Swift Hair Secrets
How does Taylor keep her curls looking defined all night?
Taylor’s curls stay flawless thanks to layered styling techniques. She preps her hair with a lightweight mousse for hold, then uses a ¾-inch curling iron for tight, long-lasting curls. After curling, she pins each curl in place until it cools—locking in shape. A spritz of flexible-hold hairspray (like L’Oréal Elnett Satin) keeps everything intact without stiffness.
Can I achieve her 1989 bob without cutting my hair?
Absolutely! Try a faux bob by curling your hair into loose waves, then pinning the bottom layers underneath to create the illusion of a shorter cut. Secure with bobby pins and let some face-framing pieces fall naturally for a soft, effortless effect.
What’s the best drugstore dupe for her go-to styling products?
For heat protection: Try Tresemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray—a budget-friendly alternative to salon-grade protectants.
For shine and sleekness: Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Serum mimics the glossy effect of high-end shine sprays.
For texture and volume: Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Spray adds the perfect amount of grit and movement for Taylor’s Reputation-era waves.
With these tips, you can recreate Taylor’s iconic hairstyles on any budget!
11. Conclusion: Your Taylor Swift Hair Era Awaits
Taylor Swift’s hair evolution is just as iconic as her music—each era telling a story through curls, waves, and sleek transformations. From the bouncy golden curls of Fearless to the edgy Reputation shag and the vintage Hollywood waves of Midnights, her hairstyles reflect the emotions and aesthetics of every album. Whether you love the effortless romance of Folklore braids or the polished elegance of 1989, there’s a Taylor-inspired look for everyone.
Experimenting with her signature styles is a fun way to channel different eras of her career. Want a soft, dreamy vibe? Try Lover-era pastel waves. Feeling bold and rebellious? Go for a tousled Reputation-inspired shag. No matter your hair length or texture, there’s a Swift-inspired style waiting to be recreated.
For those looking to enhance their look, Fabulive hair extensions offer the extra volume, length, and versatility needed to achieve Taylor’s most stunning styles. Whether you’re crafting vintage curls or a sleek bob, these extensions make it easy to transform your hair in minutes.
So go ahead—find your Taylor Swift hair era, experiment with new looks, and embrace your inner pop star!