Fashion trends never cease to amaze the world with their unpredictability, combination of retro styles and modern techniques. Forgotten, hidden “in the chest” of mother’s or grandmother’s things are again becoming relevant in our time. Among such outfits is a dress with a flounce - it has not lost popularity among fashionistas of all ages for several seasons. Thanks to the right cut and placement, the right combination of textures and silhouettes, flounces sparkled with bright colors and breathed new life into the once in-demand style.
Features of the models
The first clothes, decorated with all kinds of ruffles, bows, and drapery, appeared at the beginning of the 19th century. Dresses with frills became especially popular in the 1980s thanks to Princess Diana. It was she who, trusting in her impeccable and extraordinary taste, was able to attract the attention of fashionistas to this original decorative element. Since 2010, famous designers began to use frills again in their works, significantly modifying them and adapting them to modern trends.
The main feature of this decor is the transformation of the image, giving it romance and slight mystery. Even the simplest summer dress with frills seems festive and airy. Stylish frills add tenderness to strict office models, and cocktail options become especially impressive and playful. Evening looks embody sophistication, elegance, and extravagance.
When choosing a dress with a flounce at the bottom, it is important to understand that it can both correct your figure, hiding its flaws and emphasizing its advantages, and vice versa – ruin the entire silhouette. If you combine and think through the shape and location of the frills correctly, you can create a stylish and unique look. The only rule is that you should not overload it with this decor. Everything should be in moderation, otherwise the clothes will turn from a fashionable dress with frills into a tasteless pile of ruffles.
This is what a dress with a flounce looked like in the 20th century
Modern interpretation of the outfit
Beautiful models for pregnant women
The range of clothing for pregnant women includes not only trousers and tunics, but also dresses. An interesting option is outfits with flounces. Frills can be located both from the chest and to the very bottom of the product, or frame only the bodice. Dresses with frills for pregnant women can be either evening or everyday, depending on the material.
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Types of shuttlecocks and options for their location
A flounce is a decorative element for blouses, skirts, and jackets, which is made of a strip of fabric with a wavy outer edge. The inner border of the frill is stitched to the product. The variety of shapes and sizes of such decor is a source of inspiration for clothing designers.
A dress with a flounce located:
- Above on the shoulders. Ruffles give the image lightness and splendor, emphasizing the sophistication of the neck and the beauty of the hands. A dress with a flounce on the shoulders is an excellent choice for both creating a festive look and for everyday use. There are several options for the location of the ruffles. The first is from above along the shoulder line, while the drapery covers the arms, acting as a cape or sleeves. The second option is that the frill is sewn along the upper edge of the dress, but is located under the arms (like a bustier dress), while the shoulders are completely exposed, or straps of different thicknesses are provided.
- Down on the hem. Ruffles decorate dresses of different lengths, adding romance and flirtatiousness to the look. A summer sundress, transformed with frills, becomes light and playful, emphasizing the beauty of the legs. An evening dress with a flounce at the hem always looks bright and festive. The main role in the creation of such models is played by the number and size of shuttlecocks, as well as the material from which they are made. Ruffles are located not only at the bottom, but throughout the entire skirt, creating unique compositions.
- In the waist area. This kind of shuttlecock is called a basque. It emphasizes the waist well and hides figure flaws in the hip area. A combination of satin and lace flounce or a bustier dress with a peplum at the waist and a similar frill at the top looks impressive in the form of an asymmetrical cut.
- On the chest. Neat ruffles that delicately frame the décolleté area are a great way to highlight a beautiful bust and visually enlarge it. A summer dress with a flounce on the chest highlights female sexuality, but not vulgar, but sensual and tender.
- On one shoulder. An original and effective model. A casual look in this style is memorable, stands out among others, and an evening outfit becomes elegant and unique. Draping can be done in different ways - in light waves along the perimeter of the upper edge, forming a flower, or in the form of a spiral, covering the shoulder line, décolleté, back, waist.
- On the one side. This decoration option is a game of asymmetry. If you place the accents correctly, you can create an extraordinary image with your own twist. You can combine drapery along one edge with flowers or bows made in the same style. But it is important to take into account one nuance - such an image can easily be weighed down with an overabundance of ruffles; it should be in harmony with the body type.
- On the sleeves. With the help of drapery in these places, an incredibly feminine and beautiful dress with flounces is created. The decorative element can be made in the form of bells or wings, of various lengths and volumes - it is always elegant and stylish.
On the chest
Asymmetrical
On one shoulder
On shoulders
With basque
At the hem
On the sleeves
Types of flounces used for modern decoration:
- Jabot. Thick ruffles in several layers, which are sewn on with a zigzag. Made from corrugated fabric. The neckline of a dress with a flounce is often finished in this way.
- Curly. The decorative elements are made of thick fabric and hold their shape well. With their help you can create amazing curls, waves, flowers. Such drapery is used to decorate evening and formal dresses, giving them gloss and chic.
- Cape wave. A voluminous frill located along the upper edge. The lower edge of the flounce can reach the waist line. Such drapery can perfectly play the role of a cape, covering the arms and chest, while highlighting the shoulder line.
- Multi-tiered shuttlecocks. Ruffles, located in numerous rows throughout the skirt, add solemnity and elegance to the image. A summer dress with frills on the skirt and a wedding dress look good. Flounces can be sewn in horizontal and vertical positions, as well as chaotically and asymmetrically, using different textures and creating incredible curls. In the same way, you can decorate a children's dress with a flounce made of tulle - you will get a lush and festive outfit.
- Bows. One of the forms of a figured shuttlecock. The frill is folded in layers in a specific way, resulting in a bow-like appearance. Costumes for special occasions are decorated with this decor.
Shuttlecocks are constructed in two ways - the donut or snail method. The first is to create a pattern in the form of a double circle, where the length of the inner circumference corresponds to the size of the shuttlecock, and the distance between the circles is comparable to it. The “snail” is designed in the shape of a spiral, where the length of the inner part is equal to the parameters of the shuttlecock itself. It is permissible to build a pattern without exceeding three turns. The degree of waviness of the frills is the ratio of the radius of the two circles. The smaller the inner one, the more wavy the ruffles will be.
Shuttlecock cape
Multi-tiered
Jabot
With a bow on the shoulders
Curly
Plus size dresses
Plus size dresses with ruffles typically have a loose, knee-length silhouette. In this case, frills are placed either along the chest line and on the sleeves, or on the hem. Ruffles located at the top or bottom of the dress distract attention from the extra pounds around the waist.
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Who are they suitable for?
If you choose the right dresses with ruffles, you can not only create a beautiful look, but also correct your figure.
The main rule is that flounces add volume in the place where they are located.
Basic selection criteria depending on the type of figure:
- Triangle. A straight silhouette dress with drapery on the shoulders or sleeves will balance this figure. Thanks to this decor, the shoulders visually become wider. A good choice is a dress with straps with asymmetrical flounces that cover the arms.
- Inverted triangle. The best style for this body type is an a-line dress with flounces at the bottom or tiers along the skirt. Lush ruffles on the skirt add the necessary volume in the hip area. This arrangement of drapery will perfectly correct the figure, provided that the top is tight-fitting.
- Rectangle. With this body type, it is necessary to focus on the top (shoulders or sleeves) and hips. A peplum will do, it will emphasize the waist.
- Pear. In this case, you need to focus on the sleeves and bodice; you can use a flounce cape. It is worth choosing styles of dresses with a loose fit, midi length or floor-length.
- Apple. A long, wide dress with a flounce at the hem will suit this figure; the waist can be emphasized with a thin belt.
Almost all styles will suit slender, tall girls. For short, skinny women, it is not advisable to choose floor-length dresses with flounces at the bottom, so as not to appear even shorter. For obese women, straight, medium-length models with a flounce-cape or light frill at the hem are optimal. Symmetrical ruffles on both sides are suitable for thin girls with undefined waist and hips. To add volume to small breasts, drapery is used in the bodice area.
Pear
For a plump girl
Inverted Triangle
Rectangle
For skinny people
How to combine
What to wear with an outfit with frills? Ruffles at the bottom of the dress always attract the attention of others. When composing an image, it is necessary that the remaining decorative elements are simple and less expressive.
Jackets of a classic cut, devoid of various decor, are perfect for a fashionable dress with flounces. You can create an interesting look by combining an outfit and a leather biker jacket. If the top of the dress does not have straps, then you can complement the look with a bolero jacket. Compact cardigans are suitable for everyday wear.
As for shoes, simple and laconic shoes that do not have unnecessary decorative elements are suitable. For a celebration, shoes must be high. Platform shoes are recommended for daily wear. If the weather turns bad and it becomes cool, then sandals can be replaced by ankle boots.
Modesty and simplicity affected costume jewelry. Earrings, a bracelet, and beads will help complete the look. They should be modest and discreet. If a girl is completely confident in her own sense of style, then why not get creative by wearing a massive necklace or several bracelets. But it’s better not to overdo it, as too much jewelry will only overload the image.
Handbags for dresses with ruffles should be voluminous. The girl should choose a clutch or a small item that has a strict geometric shape. There may be thin straps or a belt at the waist.
For summer
In hot weather, you really want to try on a summer dress that makes you feel comfortable and cool. You need to choose a model with flounces made of flowing fabric in a bright green color. Drapery can be not only below, but also on the shoulders. Beige sandals with a high heel and a glossy surface will go well with this outfit.
Evening
Are you going to a party and want to outshine everyone there? A red dress would be a win-win option. Its length depends on height. If the girl is slim and tall, then the maxi length will make the look luxurious. You can highlight the waist area with a thin black belt. Not only the bottom, but also the top is decorated with ruffles. Bright, massive earrings will help make your look harmonious. Be sure that in this outfit you will be the queen of the evening.
Popular models
Dresses with flounces sparkled with new colors in the collections of Alexander McQueen, Antonio Berardi, fashion houses Dior, Azzaro - their interpretations and options for using drapery are amazing. The most current models that have entered the public fashion world are the following types of dresses:
- Everyday. Sundresses with flounces on the shoulders, sleeves, hem, chest, in different sizes and textures, have become in demand. Current models - short and long, fitted and loose dresses with flounces of straight and asymmetrical cut.
- Evening. The most current solution is a long dress with flounces. Curly draperies look great, combining different fabrics - silk and organza, cambric and lace. Cascades on skirts and the “fish” style do not lose popularity. The best evening option, if you are considering a dress with a flounce for plus size people, is an a-line silhouette with wide capes on the shoulder or sleeves. An eye-catching wrap-around model with asymmetrical flounces, it is suitable for any figure.
- Wedding. Popular options for an important celebration in every girl’s life are models such as fish and cascade. Multi-layered flounces on the skirt and decor on the chest and sleeves became an integral part of the look. The advantage of using ruffles in wedding dresses is their lightness - ruffles make the image airy, weightless, and dresses - lush, without weighing them down.
“Mom-daughter” combinations have recently become in demand, when an adult model and a similar children’s dress with a flounce are created. The ensemble turns out to be very gentle, causing tenderness to others.
Evening
For mother and daughter
Casual
Wedding
Length
If we talk about the length of dresses, complemented by flounces, the choice is standard: mini will help to show off slender beautiful legs to others, midi will create a mysterious, romantic image, and maxi will allow you to be the most spectacular at special events:
- The mini category is more suitable for warm months, when girls want to show off their figure. A short dress with a flounce will give the image a flirty look and tenderness. However, it is better for those with full legs to avoid such styles, otherwise they will unfavorably play up this feature of the figure.
- For curvy women, it is better to choose a midi that covers the knees. A dress for plus-size women with a flounce on the shoulders should be of the correct length, then it will hide flaws and emphasize the advantages of appearance. At the same time, the girl will look modern and stylish.
- Maxi length will suit any figure. This model, made of natural fabric, is indispensable in the hot summer. A long dress with a flounce, complemented with flat sandals, will be appropriate both in the city and on the beach. And if you change your casual shoes to a model with heels, you can create a romantic evening look.
A dress with ruffles on the shoulders gives women elegance and unique charm. Such outfits attract attention and add self-confidence to every lady.
Fabrics
The choice of material for a dress with frills depends on the style. For a light everyday option, it is better to use natural fabrics - cotton, chintz, chiffon. The cocktail model includes cambric, silk, and lace. It is advisable to choose evening wear from satin, silk, guipure, and warm dresses from high-quality knitwear, fine wool with elastic additives. The wedding look is created from combinations of satin, organza, lace, and gauze.
In order for figured shuttlecocks to keep their shape, neoprene is used - it is durable, does not need duplication, and is not susceptible to external factors. Jabots are made from corrugated chiffon.
When you need to buy a dress with a flounce for a girl, it is especially important to study the composition of the fabric. For children, it is necessary to choose only natural materials - cotton, chintz. This outfit will not provoke allergic reactions, the girl will be comfortable in it, since these fabrics allow air to pass through and do not restrict movement.
Cotton
Neoprene
Chiffon
Atlas
Color options
In this matter, outfit options are limited exclusively by women's imagination. The most fashionable dresses with flounces are:
- White. This is a classic color for a light summer sundress; it perfectly shades the skin, refreshes, and evokes a feeling of celebration and warmth. A white outfit is suitable for a walk, a romantic date, or a visit. You can use not only snow-white color, but also options with a beige, pink or blue tint.
- Black. An ideal option for an evening outfit is a black dress with ruffles on the shoulders. This can be a case model or a trapezoid. A fitted, floor-length dress with a flounce, elegant frills at the bottom and beautiful sleeves looks elegant.
- Blue. This dress emphasizes the charm of a woman. Light colors are ideal for summer sets, rich colors for creating evening looks. It should be borne in mind that the bright color does not need to be oversaturated with the decor - one expressive detail is enough.
- Reds. This color is chosen by extraordinary women who love to attract attention. By correctly placing accents with the help of ruffles, you can make the image less aggressive. It is advisable to choose not flashy shades of red, but more delicate ones - coral, crimson.
When choosing a dress with frills, you should be very careful with prints - you can easily overload the image, it will seem ridiculous. The more ruffles, the fewer patterns there should be.
When choosing a print, it is worth remembering that it should not be bright, catchy, or overloaded with an abundance of elements. The best option is delicate flowers, polka dots, light stains.
Why not sew it yourself?
Can you imagine how this clever textile device called a shuttlecock works? Actually, this is an ordinary strip of fabric that comes in waves. Moreover, this happens only with its outer edge.
Pattern for a one-shoulder dress with flounce
And in order for it to turn out just like that, it is cut in a circle, like a donut, or in a spiral, like a snail’s house. And you will certainly find on the Internet many patterns with this correct cutting method.
But, if you are not the best seamstress, and you really want to have a dress with a flounce on the shoulders, there is a simple pattern that everyone can sew an outfit using and will look like a real princess in it.
Floral print is very fashionable this season
Flounces can also decorate an evening dress
Stylish casual summer look
The dress pattern is two rectangles, the width of each of which depends on the chest volume (if it is 110 cm, the width is 70–89 cm). They are the basis, they are sewn on the sides, and the armholes are processed with an overlocker. But instead, you can sew on satin ribbon, lace or bias tape. The product must be hemmed at the bottom. By the way, you can choose its length to your liking.
A flounce is an ordinary strip of fabric. You can also adjust the width of the flounce yourself, choose 30 or 40 cm. You sew it to the product and insert an elastic band of the desired width.
A light summer dress with a flounce on the shoulders is ready. Use a belt, but you can do without it.
In this outfit you will conquer all men's hearts
Delicate model for romantic dates
Starting with such a simple model, you yourself will come up with more and more new shapes for the shuttlecocks.
Advice! Experiment! And through your efforts, any ordinary dress, sewn according to a basic pattern, will be transformed; you just need to sew a flounce to it, or even more than one.
What to wear with
A dress with ruffles needs to be properly combined with other things so that the look does not turn out bulky. It is advisable to adhere to the rule - if one item in an outfit is decorated, other things should be as simple as possible. You can wear a straight jacket with a full skirt, and combine numerous flounces on light fabric with a denim jacket or biker jacket. Shoes for an everyday dress should be simple, without heels - for example, sandals, ballet flats, and for an evening or office outfit - classic pumps. The combination of a light dress with low boots on a rough platform looks very stylish.
Jewelry and accessories also need to be selected carefully. The best option is wrist bracelets, thin necklaces, earrings. It is better to avoid large beads and massive jewelry. You can complement the look with a thin belt, a small bag or clutch. It is better to put your hair up - loose hair will give the image a sloppiness.
For a date
Club look
Casual option
Romantic image
How to sew a flounce to a dress
As already mentioned, there are two ways to pattern a shuttlecock - with a donut or a snail. In the first case, the waviness will be the same along the entire length, but more fabric will be needed. In the second, material waste is minimal, but the waviness is uneven. Each master decides for himself how it would be best for him to design this part.
The easiest way is to measure the required length of the shuttlecock. The resulting number must be divided by 6.26 - you get the radius of the inner circle. If you add the width of the frill to this value, you get the radius of the outer circle. If you need a longer length, you can make several such circles, and then connect the fabric and process its edges with a zigzag.
If the material is very thin, it is better to leave the edges raw.
The frill is sewn to the product with the inner edge. To begin with, it is applied on the wrong side to the front side of the dress, then stitched with a straight stitch at a distance of 0.5 cm from the edge. After this, the shuttlecock is straightened and ironed.
Dresses with flounces are the highlight of a wardrobe at any age; they are a unique model that can add notes of romance, tenderness, and incredible femininity to an image.
Cut the fabric into 6 strips of 6 cm and 2 strips of 3 cm
Gather ruffles
Sew a long narrow ruffle along the neckline, leaving room for a wider ruffle
Sew wide ruffles in rows
Make a flower decoration
Ready product
Wedding dresses with flounces
Flounces on a wedding dress will make the outfit even more solemn and festive.
The most interesting options for the location of frills:
- from the waistline to the very bottom of the dress (the bodice of the outfit is a corset);
- from the hip or knee to the hem (mermaid dress).
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-69%
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