NEW YORK (AP) ― Taylor Swift has been turning heads with her new, sexy wardrobe, but the 23-year-old says it’s just a reflection of getting older.

Swift has people buzzing about her recent red carpet choices, which have included plunging necklines and shorter skirts. “As far as wardrobe, we have been operating from a different place,’’ Swift said.

While her choices may be demure compared with the Kim Kardashians of the world, for Swift, a former teen sweetheart, it’s raised eyebrows, and she acknowledges that it’s been a bit of a shock for some people who are accustomed to seeing her wear long dresses. She recalled how her decision to wear shorts at last year’s MTV Video Music Awards caused a stir.

“It was like, ‘Gasp, Taylor wears shorts.’ And I thought it was hilarious,’’ she said, adding: “I’m not going to be like taking my clothes off or that sort of thing.’’

Swift’s new look is a reflection of her overall maturation, with her latest album, “Red,’’ selling more than 3 million copies since it was released last fall and producing two smash singles, “I Knew You Were Trouble’’ and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,’’ which is nominated for record of the year at next month’s Grammy Awards.

“I’m so happy about (my) three nominations ― it’s so unreal,’’ Swift said in a phone interview Monday from Paris.