Taylor Swift is back with a bang, showcasing her latest music video for “Opalite.” Released on Friday via Apple Music and Spotify, the video features all five guests who appeared alongside her on ‘The Graham Norton Show’ back in October: Domhnall Gleeson, Lewis Capaldi, Jodie Turner-Smith, Greta Lee, and Cillian Murphy. There’s certainly no shortage of fashion throwbacks here.
The video kicks off with a casual intro about “cutting-edge” opalite, a whimsical chemical that supposedly enhances friendships, romances, and even bonds with pets. Swift, sporting a brunette look, features as a solitary figure connected to an actual rock.
In this playful narrative, she is seen with her inanimate best friend as they dive into a VHS aerobics workout, layer on body glitter, hit up a karaoke bar, and, of course, craft friendship bracelets—all while donning retro outfits, from overalls to neon windbreakers.
A turning point occurs when Gleeson’s character, whose sidekick is a cactus, also orders a bottle of Opalite. They pour it simultaneously, which magically transports Swift into his living space, laying the foundation for a delightful new friendship.
Before long, the duo is spotted capturing quirky mall photos in matching denim vests, stonewashed jeans, and striped sweaters, as they nibble on pretzels while dressed in vintage crew necks—Swift’s featuring a cartoon cat, naturally—and fanny packs.
The climax of the video showcases a spirited dance competition between couples in colorful tracksuits, reminiscent of “Life of a Showgirl” with its mint green and orange palette.
“It was more enjoyable than I anticipated. I made new friends, metaphors, and fashion statements,” Swift reflected on Instagram about her experience in writing, directing, and performing in the video. She expressed her excitement about crafting this engaging story and character.
