The ruffle revival began in earnest with the debut of the ruffle-centric Lanvin spring collection late last year.
The Lanvin line focused on big, bold folds of luxurious fabrics and introduced grown women to the concept of the Ruffle as Fashion Statement, rather than a cloying little-girl accent that could push an outfit into grade school territory. Celebrities such as Hilary Swank, Elizabeth Banks and Thandie Newton quickly followed suit.
Both Thandie and Hilary looked to ruffles to break up the monotony of a standard evening gown, while Ms. Banks used them to transform a basic jeans-and-top ensemble into something a little more eye-catching and fancy; one of the best things about this trend is certainly that level of versatility.
When worn on top, ruffles can impart a fun, flirty, playful vibe to your look. Check out the subtle single ruffle on the Gap cardigan at left, the ruffle overload on the Old Navy chiffon cami, or Forever 21's tie-front polkadot blouse with ruffle detailing. Choosing a ruffled top and wearing it with a pair of jeans or a simple skirt is an easy way to dress up a casual outfit.
When ruffles are featured on a dress or skirt, the look is a little girlier, and it can definitely border on fussy or frilly if it's not done the right way. It's best to choose a simple piece with minimal ruffles, like this soft blue smocked cotton dress with a ruffled collar, or to pair larger ruffles (like the ones on this black chiffon skirt) with a top and accessories that are clean, sparse or tough in order to cut the sweetness. I think this skirt would look great with a basic white men's undershirt as a tank top, some mid-calf gladiator sandals and one strong piece of jewelry, like a studded cuff.
Of course, if you're not completely sure how to wear a trend, my favorite way to experiment is always with accessories. Incorporate some ruffled goodness into your regular wardrobe by accenting an outfit with these purple patent leather ruffled edge slingback heels, or Moschino's gorgeously petite metallic ruffled handbag.
