The Tamesis
Whether we like it or not, ruffled tops are back. Once considered a polarizing trend in its early days, the waist silhouette is back in the spotlight for Spring 2026 collections—more sculptural and contoured, less fussy and flowy. Its revival even made me reconsider it. But how exactly do you style this dramatic shape in a way that makes it feel pop?
For inspiration, I looked to the spring/summer 2026 shows: at Ashlyn, ruffled skirts were paired with various sleeve shapes, each one more modern than the last. Dries Van Noten pairs a top with printed shorts for a playful beach look. Adam Lippes went for a quiet elegance with an all-white monochrome look, while Khaite created an angular, architectural hemline with a statement skirt and cropped jacket. Stella McCartney’s opening look featured a belt that cinched the waist, a nod to the millennium era.
fashion magazine Favorite ruffle top
It turns out that the hem’s most surprising versatility might just be what I love most about it—I plan on styling it in a variety of ways whenever I need something that makes me feel instantly elegant. Here are some ideas on how to wear this controversial piece in 2026.
Road to Capri
For those of you who are already following the ’90s trend, consider this your next try. A scoop-neck ruffled top paired with slim cropped trousers is both nostalgic and modern. Khaite’s ruffled skirt is paired with Róhe’s cropped trousers, paired with strappy sandals and a soft pouch for a minimalist look.
