Taylor Swift is known for her iconic bangs – but they weren’t always a signature look for the songstress.
Fans recently caught a rare glimpse of the singer’s forehead during promotion for her latest album, with many realizing they had never seen her hair styled without bangs.
The discussion was sparked after one fan shared a screenshot of Swift’s Instagram story, which showed her getting ready for her The Life of a Showgirl cover shoot as a makeup artist pulled back her hair to apply product.
‘Rare Taylor forehead sighting,’ they wrote, alongside the picture.
Many were in for a further shock after learning why she cut her hair in the first place as another fan revealed: ‘It’s the fact a Vogue photo shoot in 2012 is the reason she’s had bangs ever since.’
The 35-year-old’ssignature style, which she has become synonymous with, did indeed come about after a gutsy move during the magazine cover photoshoot in 2012.
According to Vogue, the hair and makeup team were attempting to style Swift’s blonde locks to look like bangs – but without much success.
Rather than trying to persevere, the singer then told them: ‘Just cut it. This is Vogue.’
Taylor Swift is known for her iconic bangs – but the star had tight ringleted hair when she first debuted her country music album as a teenager
In a behind-the-scenes video from the photo shoot at the time, Swift dished further details about the dramatic cut.
‘It was a pretty interesting morning because they were like “We’re thinking we’re gonna do maybe bangs, maybe some extensions,”‘ she said in the clip.
‘And I’m like, “You know what? Just cut it, this is Vogue, why not,”‘ she continued, quipping: ‘So I have bangs now.’
The Blank Space singer added: ‘It’s just so exciting to get to make a departure from what people usually see me looking like but still be recognizable and it was a great balance with the two.’
Thirteen years later, the Grammy-award-winner is still flaunting bangs – although there have been a few changes to them over the years.
Previously, celebrity stylists spoke with the Royale to share how Swift – who had tight ringleted hair when she first debuted her country music album as a teenager – transformed her hair to look as thick and healthy as it is today.
Celebrity stylists have revealed is down to a combination of clever coloring and styling tricks, as well as high-end, tape-in extensions.
Jason Crozier, art director at Neville Hair and Beauty in London, spoke about Swift’s hair journey, describing it an example of how hair can evolve to reflect personal and artistic growth.
The discussion was sparked after one fan shared a screenshot of Taylor’s Instagram story, which showed her getting ready for her album cover shoot as a makeup artist pulled back her hair to apply product
Thirteen years later, the Grammy-award-winning singer is still flaunting bangs – although there have been a few changes to them over the years. Pictured: In 2022 (left) and 2025 (right)
Fans also caught a rare glimpse of her forehead on her new album The Life of a Showgirl
‘In 2019, during her Lover era, Taylor embraced a more natural and relaxed look with soft waves and her iconic blonde hair,’ he explained.
‘This style perfectly matched the romantic and pastel aesthetics of her music, creating a cohesive image that was both fresh and nostalgic.’
He said that as she transitionedinto her Folklore and Evermore eras in 2020, Swift’s style and hair was more ethereal, she wore her hair in loose braids and natural curls.
‘With the release of Midnights in 2022, Taylor’s hair took on a glamorous, old Hollywood style. She often wore her hair in sleek waves, adding modern elements such as subtle highlights and elegant accessories,’ he continued.
‘Presently, Taylor Swift’s hair embodies the “old money blonde” aesthetic, characterized by its understated elegance and timeless appeal.
‘This style is a nod to classic beauty, featuring clean lines, soft waves, and a rich blonde color that exudes luxury and refinement.
‘It’s a sophisticated evolution that highlights her status as a fashion icon, seamlessly blending her musical artistry with her evolving personal style.
‘Notably, Taylor’s present look also suggests the use of extensions to achieve a fuller, longer appearance.
‘This technique adds volume and length, enhancing the overall elegance of her current style. Extensions are a fantastic way to add versatility and fullness, allowing for more dynamic and glamorous looks.’
