Spring 2013 runway trends: ruffles

Oct 4, 2012
LadyLUX • Fashion

The Spring 2013 collections are getting flirty with layers and layers of ruffles. The flouncy detail evokes a romantic, feminine sense while giving dimension and volume to skirts, tops and even jackets. Designers gave the frills an update with two-tone colors, unexpected pairings and rigid structure, resulting in a spectrum of attitude from girly-grungy vibes to reinvented modern. There were no reservations here - casual, dressy, day or night, ruffles were omnipresent.

Sexy as Balenciaga’s Spring collection was, there was a hint of history via stiff ruffles. The look was Cristobal circa 1968 with the oversized structured fluffs showing off contrasting lining. Most notable of the show, long black and white skirts with thigh-high slits displayed the design element. Dresses and short skirts had an asymmetrical version of their own that stemmed from short full skirts.

On the Chloe runways, ruffles popped up across the shoulders and sleeves of sheer tops and cropped numbers. It was feminine confidence at its best with the volume from inflexible geometric lace pleated rigorously. The efforts were found throughout the assortment in various forms from bodice features to skirt-like silhouettes for blouses.

While Chloe fully embraced femininity, Dries Van Noten mixed it up with a bit of masculine grunge. Plaid patterns were reworked on organza, lamé, taffeta and mousseline, and were topped off with frills. Ruffled jackets were layered over plaid blouses and slouchy trousers and fluffed organza pencil skirts were paired with button-up flannels and floral sweatshirts. It was the perfect marriage of materials.