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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Laurel Dewitt headpiece


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Celia Kritharioti Spring 2023 Couture

My initial thought upon seeing this scene was Taylor being the ferryman of souls across the river Styx, particularly given all the other mythical references in the video.

It’s an interesting role for Taylor to step into and not only supports the ideas of karmic retribution and the afterlife, but Taylor is also no stranger to talking about rebirth and reincarnation. Here, she not only plays with another facet of what karma means for her and her life - she also positions herself as the arbiter of other people’s karma.


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Kyle Chan ‘14K Mermaid Link Long Earrings’ - $5,515.00

The brand is also offering a more approachable 18K option of Taylor’s earrings for $122.


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Misho ‘Pala Bangles’ - $165.00
Jennifer Fisher 'Natasha Bangle’ - $347.00

Worn with: Kyle Chan earrings + Jennifer Fisher choker and Paco Rabanne ensemble


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Paco Rabanne custom (pictured similar)

The ‘Lightbulb’ and ‘Hourglass’ scenes gave me the most to think about in the music video as it relates to Taylor’s relationship with fame and the longevity of her career. What I love most about this video is the striking and intentional visuals. They’re simple, but grab you.

This Paco Rabanne two piece appears custom, but a similar version of it walked the Fall 2023 runway. The makeup, hair, and excess of gold actually remind me of a 2011 CoverGirl ad she once was in - anyone else remember that one? I do love the sleeved runway version but going sleeveless was totally the right call functionally for the demands of the scene.

There’s a contrast here in portraying herself as a light source (very “Dear Reader” of her) and speaking to her innate ability to continue shining amidst darkness and struggles - while also portraying herself burning out from the efforts to shine as brightly as she can, as long as she can.


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Vera Belleza ‘Chandelier Earrings’ - $60,000.00

Worn with: Yousef Aljasmi bodysuit and Alexandre Vauthier sandals


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Alexandre Vauthier ‘Crystal Tassel Sandals’ - $1,450.00

I love a strappy minimalist sandal and these come with the addition of a glittery bow-like ankle strap detail which is another quick way to enter my heart.

Worn with: Yousef Aljasmi bodysuit and Vera Belleza earrings


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Stuart Weitzman ‘Avenue Pump’ - $195.99 (similar style)

Worn with: Erdem dress and Candy Ice + Dylan Lex necklace


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Candy Ice ‘Pearl Sprinkles Earrings’ - $2,200.00
Dylan Lex 'Beni Necklace’ - $480.00

Worn with: Erdem dress and Stuart Weitzman pumps


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Erdem Spring 2023

I’ve seen many people compare this particular moment to a similar angle and facial expression from the “Blank Space” music video. And there is a certain housewife about to break vibe that you one can take away from this quick scene. But what I love the most is that, unlike the maneater parodizing of “Blank Space”, her world here is herself alone - in the comforting warmth and love of a cat.

Worn with: Candy Ice + Dylan Lex necklace and Stuart Weitzman pumps


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Versace ‘Embellished Harness Top’ (similar)

Beyond the eye-grabbing visuals of the video and some of the camp and cheek, there also feels like a lot to emotionally unpack here (in particular, this ‘Hourglass’ section and the ‘Lightbulb’ section). Taylor has spoken on numerous occasions about the passage of time and what it means for her and her place in the industry as a ‘geriatric’ pop star. One need not look further than “Nothing New” to see for how long she’s harboured deep thoughts and anxieties about her relevancy in the industry and longevity in her career.

Here, it’s fascinating to think not just from the ‘karmic’ perspective of time always coming back around (for her benefit) but also to think about time slipping away from her while also experiencing one of the greatest highs (yet) in her work.


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Akaila Reid ‘Pavé Mini Hoops with Medium Pink Opal Drop’ - $8,740.00

A part of me is wondering if this is a cheeky reference to Glinda’s bubble.

Worn with: Faiccia hat, Coach dress, and Christian Louboutin pumps


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Faiccia ‘Green Leaf Beret’ - $17.99

What sets Taylor’s version of Dorothy apart is a jaunty yellow wool beret.

Worn with: Akaila Reid earrings, Coach dress, and Christian Louboutin pumps


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Christian Louboutin ‘Vernica 55 Patent Leather Pumps’ - $971.00

These mirrored Louboutins are a fresh update on Dorothy’s signature ruby red slippers. If you’re particularly eagle eyed, you may also remember this pair from the “IBYTAM” music video.

Worn with: Faiccia hat, Akaila Reid earrings, and Coach dress

Also worn: “I Bet You Think About Me” music video


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“Karma” music video | May 26, 2023

Coach Spring 2023

This is a very charming, updated take on the blue gingham of Dorothy’s The Wizard of Oz iconic dress.

Worn with: Faiccia hat, Akaila Reid earrings, and Christian Louboutin pumps


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