THE RULES: Ruffles
Mary Fellowes • 10/14/2016
Photo: PopSugar
THE DEBRIEF: Who can resist the coquettish flirtation of a ruffle? Summer may be over, but there is still fall fun to be had. Whether a waterfall of cascading lines or an undulating whisper, ruffles lend instant femininity to everyone from the carefree girl to the seductive woman, with zero effort. They break up a fabric’s flat plane, create textures and 3D effects, and add just enough insouciance that accessories can be kept to a minimum. The best news is that all of this means less thinking when getting dressed.
This season, you'll find ruffles anywhere—from details on collars, sleeves, and hems right through to waves of fabric running top to bottom or side to side on dresses and tops. Even a pant or skirt with a frilled hem or side insert has the perfect je ne sais quois. The trick is to keep away from the flamenco look—ruffles must be kept in effortless moderation.
This season, you'll find ruffles anywhere—from details on collars, sleeves, and hems right through to waves of fabric running top to bottom or side to side on dresses and tops. Even a pant or skirt with a frilled hem or side insert has the perfect je ne sais quois. The trick is to keep away from the flamenco look—ruffles must be kept in effortless moderation.
STYLE NOTES: Your key piece is going to be a playful top in silk or cotton with a ruffled sleeve or collar. Pair it with a quietly ruffled or plain short skirt, or tailored pants with a fit that's up to you—loose or tight, cropped or long. A knee-length or shorter dress with ruffles inserted into the seam of the waist or hem provides an instant mood lift. For long dresses, keep the ruffles to the top half of the body where possible, as to avoid being overly theatrical.
BEAUTY NOTES: There are few rules on the makeup. Hair is the key thing to get right here. For day, go for natural, easy, or silky smooth hair. Casual ponytails work perfectly, not overcrowding the neckline if the collar is ruffled. Avoid coiffed updos, as the pairing with ruffles can quickly veer into prom night. For evening, why not echo the ruffle lines and go with a 1940s blowout? You could also just get out the curling tongs. Keep the texture brushed through and perfectly glossy for maximum, movie star level glamour—bonus points for side parting.