Black ensemble, shearling bomber, and heeled loafers – Taylor Swift’s nod to 1989 vibes.

As we approach the new year, there’s a palpable resurgence of 2010s fashion, delighting retired Tumblr aficionados. Recently, Jennifer Lawrence has embraced the business-casual essence and mustache-loving hipster vibe of that era, turning what was once considered cringe-worthy into something undeniably cool. Another trend from that time receiving a contemporary makeover is Indie Sleaze, the edgier cousin of the 2010s hipster, adoring underground artists (like the Arctic Monkeys) before they hit the mainstream. And who do we have to thank for reviving this trend? None other than Taylor Swift.
Taylor, a fervent celebrator of bygone eras, was notably rocking heeled loafers—an iconic shoe that dominated the 2014 Tumblr scene—during her recent outings in New York. Back in 2014, around the release of “1989,” Taylor was known for pairing these loafers with American Apparel skirts and 1975 band tanks. Fast forward to “1989 (Taylor’s Version),” and she’s now blending these shoes with her best friend’s fashion line for a night out. It’s amazing how time flies and styles resurface!

During her time in New York, Swift donned a chic all-black ensemble while heading to Electic Lady Studios (hinting at possible new music!). She bundled up in a trendy shearling bomber jacket from her best friend Gigi Hadid’s brand, Guest in Residence (which, unsurprisingly, is currently sold out). Bomber jackets and shearling styles like Gigi’s Grizzy design have been this winter’s must-haves, and Taylor, known for embracing popular trends, even dared to pull off the no-pants trend.The 34-year-old paired the jacket with a black mini-skirt and tights, keeping it simple yet evocative of her 1989 Tumblr girl roots. The focal point of her look? The Christin Louboutin lug-soled loafer pumps—a departure from her once-beloved twee-inspired heeled oxfords. Completing her outfit was a black shoulder bag, adding an understated elegance to the ensemble. Indeed, the allure of heeled loafers remains timeless.

As we near a decade since 2014, memories flood back of the Victoria’s Secret angels, Coachella flower crowns, and the profound indie music scene. The Tumblr era, at its pinnacle, brought forth various popular aesthetics (like ballet-core and twee), but among the most cherished was Indie Sleaze. It encapsulated the yearning for edginess within the hipster movement, preserving a unique essence of that time.