This month's must-have trend
We never thought the day would come - but that much-maligned 80s wardrobe must-have, the ra-ra skirt, has made a triumphant comeback. Well, sort of ... Ruffles and frills were very much in evidence on this season's catwalks, decorating everything from brightly coloured, floor-skimming skirts at Dolce & Gabbana to cute patent leather bags at Moschino.
As ever, it's a trend that some fashion-conscious celebrities have embraced whole-heartedly. Model-of-the-moment Agyness Deyn was spotted wearing a white ra-ra minidress with denim jacket and trainers during a stroll through London's Covent Garden - while uber-trendy TV presenter Alexa Chung sported a frill-covered, strapless gown in pale pink to February's Elle Style Awards.
However, you'll doubtless be thrilled - or should that be frilled? - to learn that the high street's take on the new ruffles are generally much more practical and wearable. So you don't need to squeeze yourself into a ra-ra mini-frock in order to be bang on trend!
Head to Topshop for a whole wardrobe's worth of options, including cute floral tiered vests (£25; www.topshop.com) and frilly silk frocks (£65). Remember, this season's ruffles and frills can be as full-on or understated as you like: if you want to steer away from the ra-ra, go for low-key tops with tiered details around the neckline. For occasion-wear, Reiss's new collection features a beautiful satin dress in pale pink with a huge ribbon tie at the waist and pretty black ruffles at the neck.
We also love Traffic People's Tuscan Ruffles Babydoll Silk Mix Top (£30; www.discoo.co.uk): it's a romantic, go-anywhere look that works equally well for the park or shops during the daytime or a bar or restaurant in the evening. Wear it with jeans or a long, plain skirt.
Finally, you can always give a nod to the trend through your shoes and accessories. Bronx does gorgeous cute summer sandals with frill details in a rainbow of colours (£59.99; www.bronxshoes.com), while Accessorize has a collection of cute satin ruffle ballerina shoes (£20; www.monsoon.co.uk).
