Ruffles Are Back In A Big Way. How To Add Them To Your Closet

Victorian-era lovers rejoice. Ruffles are one of the biggest trends of 2023 and this romantic style has been taking over the runways. The flouncy addition to clothes has recently been seen in collections from major designers such as Ralph Lauren and Zimmermann. From huge statement frills on busts to delicate flowing skirts, no ruffle was too big or small this season.

Ruffles are a fun way to add some flair to your wardrobe. You can go as dramatic as you want and go for a top-to-bottom tiered look or choose a more subtle route with floaty sleeves. Interpret this style however you want — and wear it wherever you want. From ruffled maxi skirts to a pirate-themed blouse, you can't go wrong with wearing some dopamine-boosting clothing. Ruffles are all about being playful so don't be afraid to experiment. Mix and match pieces, as well as different materials. Here are some ways you can incorporate spring and summer's hottest style.

What better way to transition from the gloomy winter weather into glorious spring than a dreamy ruffled skirt in a pastel color? If you want to keep the look simple, pair the skirt with a plain white T-shirt and accessorize the outfit with shiny leather go-go boots. To take this look up a notch, add a fringed leather jacket, which happens to be another huge 2023 trend.

Ruffled pirate blouses can look kitschy, but not if it's made with an elegant material such as silk or satin. A tie-front bow at the neckline adds a bit of formality to the shirt, along with long sleeves that end in an oversized cuff. Tuck the shirt into a pair of wide-legged jeans or if you're heading into the office, a nice pair of high-waisted slacks will do.

Ruffles don't have to be frilly and flouncy. If the tiers are on the bigger side, they'll drape over your body without creating too much volume. This bias-cut dress hugs the body without being overly form-fitting. A timeless piece like this will have you reaching into your closet for this dress over and over again. Keep your accessories simple so that the final look isn't overwhelming.

If you want to ease your way into the ruffle trend, start by wearing a simple top with ruffled sleeves. This basic sweatshirt automatically gets an upgrade with voluminous shoulders, which will totally elevate your athleisure-wear. A pair of white jeans and a slouchy messenger bag makes this a great daytime outfit.

Make a statement this summer with swimwear featuring big, bold ruffles. While most bathing suits add a bit of flair around the hips, this one-piece features layers of material draping from the shoulders to the waist. Ruffles around the chest are a great way to add volume to the décolletage area and a bonus is that it creates the illusion of a slimmer waistline. For such big ruffles, you'll want to keep the pattern simple and opt for a solid color or thin stripes.

There's a reason ruffles continue to trend over the years, especially during warmer months. As the chill thaws, many fashionistas reach for more pretty, feminine styles and a cocktail dress is the perfect way to incorporate this trend. A simple body-con shift becomes jazzed up with flounces around the shoulders and bust. Sparkly red slides and a matching purse add a nice color contrast to the mauve dress.

Shopping for outerwear can be a bit boring and tedious at times, so when you see an eye-catching jacket or cardigan with ruffles, make a grab for it. This long length is punctuated with a ruffled hem, which isn't as overbearing as ruffles on the sleeves or shoulders. Fun bow accents on the sleeves add extra femininity. The great part about this jacket is that it can be dressed up or down according to your outfit.