I’ve always had a penchant for frilly, awe-inducing things. That applies whether it’s a ruffled baby doll dress or a twirl-worthy skirt. But right now, it’s the Victorian-era inspired tops that are taking up space in my shopping cart. Think subtly sheer fabrics and volume-maxxing sleeves.
Of course, dainty, statement blouses have always been a thing, but I think my newfound love for them started when Chemena Kamali made her debut at Chloé. The unapologetically feminine designs were an instant hit, and, like clockwork, are trickling from the runway and into real life.
On the contemporary side of the aisle, Dôen is leading the pack with charming lace-trimmed creations and gauzy cotton designs that are as romantic as they are comfortable. Similarly, Free People has stayed true to its bohemian-inspired roots, working sheer ethereal tops throughout its pre-fall collection, from a lace number worn by Willow Smith in the new campaign to a billowing ruffle top that’s quickly selling out. And, hate it or love it, Zara never misses. This season, I’ve already scored my very own frill topper from the retailer.
One of the main reasons I’m so drawn to the flirty tops right now is because they are the perfect yin to my yang of casually cool bottoms. Whether it’s a pair of loose-fitting barrel leg jeans, comfy drawstring trousers, or baggy Bermuda shorts it balances out those boyishly cool pieces like no other top can do.
During Copenhagen Fashion Week, showgoers showed us how it’s done with a mixture of longline shorts and voluminous jeans. What really took their looks to the next level was the finishing touches. Think cool sunglasses, coin purse necklaces, and classic hats. For shoes, street style stars anchored the trend wearing kitten heels, platforms, and wedges.
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 04: Fia Hamelijnck wears white blouse, grey shorts, newspaper boy brown hat outside Gestuz during the Copenhagen Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2027 on August 04, 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images) BERLIN, GERMANY – JULY 22: Sophia Geiss is seen wearing an ivory semi sheer high neck long sleeve blouse with layered ruffle detailing and flared cuffs from Zara; blue relaxed fit cuffed wide leg jeans from Weekday; black leather flip flop sandals from Mango; a large black leather top handle tote bag from DeMellier London; oversized black rectangular sunglasses; silver hoop earrings on July 22, 2026 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images) COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 3: Rita Montezuma is seen wearing an ivory ribbed OpéraSPORT Caroline cardigan with ruffled trims; black OpéraSPORT Bianca shorts with a lace hem; a mustard yellow Chanel Chocolate Bar Bowling Bag in patent leather; black patent leather Vagabond sandals; oversized gradient sunglasses; a silver chain necklace with a green embellished pouch pendant; straight hair with a middle part outside the Opera show during day one of Copenhagen Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2027 on August 3, 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)If you’re thinking about having a romantically chic fall, a frilly top is all your closet needs. Here, shop our favorite Victorian-inspired, ruffle blouses on the market.
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