What was once the height of ultra-feminine, maximalist dressing has returned with new energy, shedding its sentimental reputation and stepping into the modern wardrobe.
Instead of drowning silhouettes, ruffles now create movement and texture. From high fashion to high street, they’re everywhere. But wearing them well takes a little finesse.
Ruffled Blouses or Shirts
The right ruffled blouse brings elegance without veering into Edwardian cosplay. Opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton poplin or chiffon to keep volume from overwhelming your frame.
A crisp white shirt under a structured blazer sharpens the softness, while a sheer option with delicate trim adds dimension to a minimalist outfit.
If you prefer a more directional look, go for an asymmetrically ruffled top paired with straight-leg jeans or tailored trousers. Avoid excessive embellishments elsewhere; let the texture speak for itself.
Ruffled Dresses or Skirts
A well-placed ruffle transforms a simple dress or skirt into something special. For a wedding guest dress, look for designs that cascade diagonally across the body. This elongates the silhouette and adds movement without overwhelming the shape.
If you’re styling a ruffled midi skirt, counterbalance the volume with a sleek top, such as a fitted knit or bodysuit. A high-low hem with ruffle detailing creates effortless fluidity, especially in softer fabrics like silk or georgette.
Ruffled Sleeves
A statement sleeve is an easy way to introduce ruffles. A blouse with softly fluted sleeves feels effortlessly romantic, while a more structured ruffle at the shoulder gives a fashion-forward edge.
The key to wearing this well lies in balance – keep the rest of your silhouette streamlined to let the sleeve shine. High-waisted trousers or a clean, A-line skirt work together, ensuring the outfit remains refined rather than overly whimsical.
Ruffle-Trimmed Accessories
Accessories with ruffle details allow you to tap into the trend without altering your entire wardrobe. A ruffled-edge handbag brings texture to an otherwise simple outfit. Shoes with subtle trims – like a ballet flat or a heeled mule – offer a playful yet wearable nod to the aesthetic.
Scarves with ruffle hems can add softness to defined outerwear, making them ideal for transitional dressing. Stick to quality materials; leather, silk, or even matte satin ensures the style feels deliberate.
Ruffled Outerwear
A ruffled trench or blazer provides an unexpected take on classic tailoring. To keep the look sharp, opt for pieces where ruffles are incorporated into structured silhouettes rather than left loose and billowy.
A trench coat with ruffled lapels adds depth, while a blazer with a sculptural ruffle at the hem works well over sleek trousers or a fitted dress.
Monochrome styles feel the most elevated – black, camel, or navy ensure the focus remains on the construction rather than competing with colour or print.
