Fresh from her continued global domination world tour and sold out shows in London, Taylor Swift has announced she will be showing some personal items as part of a completely free exhibit at the globally renowned Victoria & Albert South Kensington museum, importantly with no tickets or pre-booking required. It would appear to be a huge coup for V&A and also a great way to reach younger audiences for the museum than ever before.

‘Taylor Swift: Songbook Trail.’ promises to be an immersive experience that showcases an intimate look into Swift’s life and career, featuring a curated collection of personal artifacts for fans to explore.

From 27th July through to 8th September 2024, V&A South Kensington is set to host a spectacular journey through its galleries, featuring sixteen iconic looks worn by the 14-time Grammy Award-winning artist. This theatrical trail will celebrate the creativity behind her costumes, lyrics, and music videos while exploring the global phenomenon she has become.

Each of the 13 stops on the trail will highlight a chapter in Swift’s illustrious career, spotlighting a particular era of her music and prolific songwriting.

A Journey Through Taylor Swift’s Eras

From the customised cowboy boots worn during her breakout success as a country singer in 2007 to the jet-black ruffled shoulder dress featured in her latest music video for the single “Fortnight” (2024), the exhibition will display costumes and accessories on loan from Taylor’s personal archive. These pieces will sit alongside instruments, music awards, storyboards, and previously unseen archival materials that delve into her childhood and recording legacy.

Immersive and Theatrical Displays

Visitors will be immersed in Taylor Swift’s personal world and creativity, celebrating her ground-breaking impact on the global stage and the Swiftie fandom. Each intervention in the exhibition will present some of Swift’s most iconic looks in dialogue with V&A objects and the museum’s architecture, offering a unique perspective on her artistic evolution.

“We are delighted to display a range of iconic looks worn by Taylor Swift at the V&A this summer, each celebrating a chapter in the artist’s musical journey,”

“Taylor Swift’s songs, like objects, tell stories, often drawing from art, history, and literature. We hope this theatrical trail across the museum will inspire curious visitors to discover more about the performer, her creativity, and V&A objects.”

says Kate Bailey, Senior Curator, Theatre & Performance.

This landmark cultural event offers free admission and promises an immersive experience, blending Swift’s musical journey with the rich heritage of the V&A. Fans and visitors alike are invited to explore the profound impact of Taylor Swift’s artistry through this innovative and engaging exhibition.

A Theatrical Walk Through the Eras

Each display will capture a different era of Swift’s artistic journey, from the charming cowboy boots of her 2007 country phase to the sleek black ruffled dress from her latest music video, ‘Fortnight.’

An Immersive Experience

Spread across 13 stops—a nod to Swift’s lucky number—each stop will be theatrically staged, transporting visitors into specific eras with soundtracks, music videos, and thoughtfully crafted set designs that enhance the narrative of Swift’s evolution as an artist.

A Deeper Look: The Songwriter’s Journey

‘Taylor Swift: Songbook Trail’ delves deeper than the glitz and glamour, offering previously unseen archival materials that explore Swift’s formative years. This provides a rare glimpse into the influences that shaped her songwriting, offering fans a richer understanding of her creative process. This focus on her roots not only strengthens the connection with her devoted fanbase but also highlights the evolution of her artistry.

Mark Your Calendars

Running from July 27th to September 8th, 2024, ‘Taylor Swift: Songbook Trail’ is set to be a landmark cultural event, and the best part? Admission is free! With its curated journey through Taylor Swift’s eras, theatrical displays, and in-depth exploration of her songwriting roots, this exhibition promises something for every Swiftie.