ELLE’s resident astrologers delve into what the stars have to say about her new album.
Taylor Swift has never been shy about a reinvention. On October 3, she unveiled The Life of a Showgirl, an album that leans less tortured poet, more velvet curtain call. Orange feathers, corseted gowns, and a deliberately suggestive photo shoot signal a turn toward her Scorpio rising—a placement in her birth chart known for its magnetism, edge, and control of a narrative. Swift revealed that the theme was “everything that was going on behind the curtain.” In other words, she’s choosing how much of the mystery to let slip.
Astrologically, this release lands during her Jupiter return in Cancer, a once-every-12-year cycle that brings expansion, luck, and the sense that life is stretching into more generous territory. It tracks, then, that this album feels lighter than its predecessor, The Tortured Poets Department. On his New Heights podcast in August, Travis Kelce confirmed the shift: “I keep listening to this album…it’s just so much fun to listen to, man. I’ve been dancing all throughout the house.”
Even the lead single, “The Fate of Ophelia,” reads like a wink to her Sagittarius Sun. Sagittarians are the English professors of the zodiac, never far from a book, a reference, or a philosophical aside. Shakespeare’s tragic heroine may not be an obvious choice for a pop single, but it’s on-brand for a Sagittarius who delights in blurring academia with pop culture.
Collaboration is also part of this cycle. Swift’s Cancer moon aligns with Sabrina Carpenter’s Cancer rising on the title track, “The Life of a Showgirl.” It’s an astrological match that delivers both intimacy and theatricality. Together they create a femme fatale-meets-sister act energy that feels as curated as it is playful.
“Eldest Daughter”: Virgo
Virgos feel the weight of duty and perfection, often carrying more than their fair share.
“Ruin the Friendship”: Scorpio
A Scorpio isn’t afraid to cross lines, dive into taboos, or torch a bridge if that’s what transformation requires.
“Actually Romantic”: Taurus
Tauruses thrive on timeless gestures: roses, candlelight, and love that proves itself in tangible ways.
“Wi$h Li$t”: Aries
Aries always wants more, and is bold enough to say it out loud and chase it without hesitation.
“Wood”: Sagittarius
Sagittarians grow through adventure and nature, forever chasing the horizon and expanding their world.
“CANCELLED!”: Gemini
Gemini is quick-witted and unafraid to ghost when the nonsense outweighs the fun.
“Honey”: Cancer
Cancer brings sweetness and sentiment to love, offering comfort like a familiar flavor you can’t forget.
“The Life of a Showgirl feat. Sabrina Carpenter”: Leo
Leos demand the spotlight, sequins, and center stage. They’re born to be the stars of the show.
The release date of TLOAS itself is astrologically well-timed—and not just because it’s two days before Kelce’s birthday. Dropping in the heart of Libra season, the album arrives under the sign ruled by Venus, planet of beauty and balance. Libra energy favors partnerships, aesthetics, and the fine art of performance—all themes Swift leans into here.
Orange may be the new black, but in Swift’s hands, it’s pure showgirl spice. Dropping in the middle of pumpkin spice season, this era proves she can stir sweetness with heat—and keep us all coming back for another sip.
This article originally appeared on elle.com.
