Vintage T-Shirt Worn by Pop Star Raises Millions for Monterey Bay Aquarium

Vintage T-Shirt Becomes Conservation Catalyst

October 22, 2025: A vintage sea otter T-shirt worn by Taylor Swift in her film The Official Release Party of a Showgirl has unexpectedly raised over $2 million for the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Sea Otter Program. The shirt, originally produced in the 1990s, features a charming illustration of two otters floating together. Swift’s appearance in the shirt during the film’s release sparked a surge of interest among her fans.

In response, the aquarium re-released the design as part of a fundraising campaign, aiming to raise $1.3 million—a nod to Swift’s favorite number, 13. The campaign surpassed its goal in less than eight hours, with donations averaging $100,000 every 15 minutes. As of October 17, 2025, the total raised had exceeded $2 million.

Eco-Friendly Merchandise and Swiftie Support

Donors contributing at least $65.13—another reference to Swift’s lucky number—received the reissued T-shirt, produced sustainably by Liberty Graphics, a Maine-based company. The shirts are made of 100% cotton and printed with PVC-free ink.

The overwhelming demand led to back-orders, and fulfillment began on October 20. The campaign’s success highlights the powerful impact of celebrity influence on environmental causes.

Swift’s Connection to Sea Otters

While it’s unclear how Swift acquired the vintage shirt, there are speculations linking her to the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s sea otter program. Notably, an otter named Opal, featured in the aquarium’s exhibits, shares a name with Swift’s fiancé, Travis Kelce, whose birthstone is opal. This coincidence has fueled further interest and affection among fans for the sea otter conservation efforts.

This unexpected turn of events underscores the significant role that public figures and their platforms can play in supporting environmental conservation initiatives.