No pop star has remained as enigmatic as Lorde. When the singer-songwriter emerged with “Royals” in 2013, she was just an unknown teenager from suburban New Zealand. Since then, she has only released four albums, taking four-year breaks in between and disappearing from the spotlight entirely until she chooses to resurface. But the long droughts are always worth the wait. Lorde’s music is always deeply introspective and wise, offering emotional compasses for her fans and inspirational material for everyone from Billie Eilish to Olivia Rodrigo. Her fourth album Virgin, released on June 27, is no different. Lorde explores the expanding definition of her femininity, body image and sexual intimacy, describing it as “full transparency” and “the sound of my rebirth”.

As with any singer, Lorde’s wardrobe reflects the music she makes and where she’s at in her life, which contrasts greatly from album to album. Most people probably remember her signature gothic look at the beginning of her career: black shirts, platform boots, cherry-black lipstick, and dark, curly hair. Since then, her style has evolved with each of her musical eras. During Melodrama, she often wildly danced in comfortable but chic party ensembles with her Adidas Superstar shoes during performances. For the sun-soaked Solar Power, she donned bright, colourful dresses and bleached hair. Now, as she promotes Virgin, she casually sports white collared shirts and jeans, emulating casual New York street fashion. Lorde’s also not afraid to play with textures like satin and sequins, proving she’s not just a versatile musician, but a fashion shapeshifter as well.

Lorde in Thom Browne

With “Tailored for You” being the Met Gala dress code this year, Lorde arrived on theme with a sleek, silver set by Thom Browne. She wore a half bandeau top that seemed to just hang off her chest, a reference to the music video of her new song “Man of the Year”, where she covered her chest with duct tape. She topped off the look with a matching layered maxi skirt, tuxedo jacket and grey pointed mules.

Lorde in Bode

At the 2021 Met Gala, Lorde looked divine in a custom white silk ensemble bedazzled with beads and embroidery, lined with small copper ornaments. The dress was made out of repurposed fabric and garments, aligning with Lorde’s advocacy for climate change and sustainable fashion. Completing the ethereal look was a massive gold headpiece with three suns, a nod to her third album, Solar Power.

Lorde in Valentino