Take It From Bella Hadid: Ruffle Dresses Are the Epitome of Idyllic Femininity
Ruffle dresses are a coquettecore dream that belongs in every summer wardrobe. Even Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner think so.
In case you were wondering, the coquette aesthetic is not going anywhere, and especially not this summer. Whether that's good news or bad news to you, take this as a sign that it's probably time to start planning your summer wardrobes accordingly. Obviously, you don't have to dress in full-on balletcore or coquettecore aesthetic all summer long (though you certainly could if you wanted to). But if you haven't already hopped on the trend, the summer is definitely the season to do so. That's right, it's time to embrace the feminine charm and flirtatious allure that defines the coquette aesthetic. From soft pastels to dainty florals, there's a myriad of ways to incorporate this whimsical style into your wardrobe. Not sure where to start? Not to worry, we've made it easier for you to plunge into the world of coquettecore.
Over the past few weeks, L'OFFICIEL's fashion editors have been spotting a resurgence of ruffle details in a multitude of fashion brands' recent summer collections. Whether it's the cascading layers adorning skirts, the delicate frills framing neckline, or the playful flounce enhancing dresses, there's one thing we're confident about: ruffles are among the go-to embellishments this season. Sure, ruffles are indeed a timeless staple, most especially during the spring and summer. But, their prevalence in recent collections suggests a renewed fascination with this feminine touch. It's as if fashion creatives, from luxury designers to fast fashion labels, decided to collectively embrace the whimsy and romance that ruffles bring to a garment. And can we blame them? Ruffle details do offer a dynamic playfulness that infuses each piece with a sense of carefree elegance—qualities perfectly suited to the warm, sun-drenched days ahead. So, while ruffles may be a familiar sight in summer fashion, their current popularity feels like a fresh take on an old favorite. Is it because of balletcore and coquettecore's enduring popularity? Perhaps so. Either way, they're definitely here to stay, at least for the warmer (sometimes scorching) days ahead.
So what are you going to do with that information? Don't be overwhelmed. When in doubt about how to hop onto a trend, the answer is always dresses. Just take a look at some of our favorite supermodels' recent ensembles, for example.
Since the beginning of the month, Bella Hadid has been fully embracing the ruffle trend. During her appearance on the Drew Barrymore Show, Hadid radiated elegance in a sheer dress with fringe and ruffled accents from Dior's Spring/Summer 2024 collection. The following day, she continued to captivate with her fashion choices, opting for a lace corset paired with a skirt adorned with ruffle details. But Hadid didn't stop there. She even sported a few ensembles with ruffled details for the campaign of her new beauty brand, Orebella. Coincidence? We think not.
With that said, it's time to discover your go-to ruffled dress to own the summer. And guess what? L'OFFICIEL has also curated the ultimate collection of must-have ruffled dresses so you can stay effortlessly chic and on-trend throughout the season.
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Feeling bold? Bare it all à la Kendall Jenner with this long-sleeved ruffle dress from Rat & Boa. Whether you layer it over a bikini for a beachside stroll or opt for a braless look, this sheer chiffon ensemble exudes irresistible allure, making it ideal for any sultry seaside rendezvous. And with the naked dress trending recently, it's high time to pick this up. If you're not a fan of the dark pink, don't fret. Rat & Boa also offers it in black and blue and a similar silhouette in a dreamy botanical print.
Rat & Boa Farretti Dress in Pink, $325, Rat & Boa
Nothing says spring and summer like a good floral print, and Love Shack Fancy's maxi ruffle dress is arguably the most versatile option out there. Whether you dress it up for a June wedding or pair it with sandals for a casual weekend brunch, this dress effortlessly transitions from day to night. Its flowing silhouette and delicate ruffles add a touch of femininity, while the vibrant floral patterns scream warm-weather chic. Its timeless appeal makes it a wardrobe staple that promises to turn heads wherever you go.
Love Shack Fancy Rialto Floral Chiffon Maxi Dress in Yellow Melon, $765, LoveShackFancy
But you might not be too big a fan of Love Shack Fancy's price tag. Enter Mango's ruffled floral print dress: it captures the essence of spring and summer without breaking the bank. With its charming floral print and playful ruffles, it offers a budget-friendly alternative to the high-end options. The slitted design adds a hint of sexiness and seduction to an otherwise coquette aesthetic, making it perfect for warm-weather occasions. Whether you're attending a garden party or enjoying a leisurely day out, this dress promises style and affordability in equal measure.
Mango Ruffled Floral Print Dress, $140, Mango
Blumarine's off-shoulder ruffle dress features a play of lengths with a chiffon ruffle extending at the back. Crafted from jersey and silk chiffon, it boasts an asymmetric design, straight neckline, and dropped shoulders for a modern touch. The ruffled and draped top and the sheer train create a unique silhouette that exudes both edginess and femininity.
Blumarine Mini Dress with Train in Black, $1,880, Blumarine
Crafted from luxurious silk linen organza, this exquisite Zimmermann piece is spring coquettecore in a dress. The structured v-wire bodice, adorned with boning along the panel seams and a corset-style design, ensures a flattering fit and impeccable silhouette. What we love about this dress, aside from of course, the print, is that it features a grosgrain ribbon inside the waist to cinch the dress and accentuate your natural curves. It's a standout choice for any special occasion for the summer.
Zimmermann Natura Draped Midi Dress in Coral Azalea, $2,350, Zimmermann
If you have a penchant for a dramatic flair, Staud's Florian Dress is your perfect match. This stunning evening gown, a standout from their Staud's Holiday collection, introduces a captivating silhouette with its tiered ruffled organza bodice and skirt. Accentuated by a waistband detail and a sheer panel above the knee, it exudes an air of dark glamor. The dress is further elevated with a halter neckline adorned with a delicate ivory organza flower, adding a touch of romantic charm to its otherwise bold design.
Staud Florian Dress in Black, $895, Staud
Don't worry, if you're seeking a more summery-colored alternative to the Staud gown, allow me to introduce The Bar's Henri Gown. This enchanting piece features a halterneck tie closure that adds a touch of elegance to its silhouette. Crafted with a tiered tulle fabric overlay and boasting a side seam slit, it effortlessly combines femininity with a subtle hint of allure. Let it be your go-to dress for soirées and special occasions all summer long.
The Bar Henri Gown in Limoncello, $498 $469, REVOLVE
But maybe you don't want the ruffle details to be too dramatic. Look no further than Simkhai's Emily dress. Boasting a delicate V-neckline and thin straps, this maxi ensemble radiates elegance and grace, draping in gentle, pastel-hued layers. The understated ruffled accents infuse a hint of playful charm without overwhelming the dress's graceful flow. It's the epitome of effortless sophistication, tailored for those who crave refined style with a touch of romance. Love the style, but not a fan of white dresses? Simkhai also offers the Emily Dress in pastel green.
Simkhai Emily Dress in Ivory, $695, Simkhai
Crafted with the signature flair of Roberto Cavalli, this ruffled asymmetric dress is guaranteed to captivate attention wherever you go. It seamlessly blends flamboyant movement with a sleek bodycon silhouette and exudes confidence and sophistication. Adorned with opulent gold-tone metal rings and boasting a daring deep V-neck back, it's the ideal choice for anyone who isn't afraid to make a statement with their bold style.
Roberto Cavalli Ruffled Asymmetric Plunge Dress in Purple, $1,944 $1,150, Roberto Cavalli
Ready to make a big splurge? This Mirror Palais ruffle dress is your perfect match. It's just everything you could ever possibly need in a white dress and more. Made of silk chiffon, this slitted gown boasts cascading ruffles individually placed and cut on the bias, adorned with exquisite pearl finishing. Its luxurious silk charmeuse lining is sewn with delicate seams, ensuring both comfort and elegance with every step. And let's not forget the dramatic train that adds a touch of grandeur to your entrance. This dress is simply a statement piece that will undoubtedly turn heads at any event. You can even elevate your ethereal ensemble with Mirror Palais' cascading ruffle veil. That's assuming you envision wearing this to your tropical wedding, of course.
Mirror Palais Cascading Ruffle Gown in Pearl, $5,995, Mirror Palais
