Ribbons, ruffles, lace and other feminine details that create classic, soft, and tasteful looks offer a welcome contrast to the outrageous and sometimes racy creations we see on the streets, runways and social media.
They’re a breath of fresh air in a world of fashion extremes.
While bold and daring designs often take the fashion spotlight, these timeless touches lend a refreshing and refined variation, embodying elegance and enduring beauty.
Ladylike dressing is always a good thing. A selection of the latest collections showcase a return to elegance and femininity, enhanced with details that accentuate graceful sophistication.
These serve as fashion’s great reminder to celebrate femininity, especially in an era dominated by androgynous style.
A reliable choice for fixing dressing dilemmas is a floral dress. Even though you might hear in your head “Florals for Spring? Groundbreaking”, a quote from that famous fashion movie, a floral dress is a timeless option that blends femininity with versatility.
An example is Ralph Lauren’s Spring 2024 blue-and-white floral dress. The simplicity of the dress is enhanced with the addition of a brown leather belt, infusing it with extra flair.
Like florals, bows also possess an enduring quality, and their dainty and romantic charm make them perfect for ladylike dressing.
We love one of Valentino’s newest dress creations, which features a stunning back with a big bow.
What can we say, this dazzling detail truly ties (pun intended) the whole look together.
Also from Valentino is the delicate rose detailing on its latest dresses, bags and shoes.
Dubbed the Valentino Rouse-Rouche 1959, this adornment pays homage to the couture tradition deeply rooted in the Italian fashion house.
The dainty design element is evident on a black and white dress worn by Valentino’s brand ambassador, Chinese actress Yang Zi, featuring a three-dimensional white rose blooming on the garment’s sleeve.
Adding glamour and grandeur to one of her Autumn/Winter 2024 designs, StellaMcCartney presents an embellished taupe-coloured cocktail dress with a cowl neckline.
The dress has a train of light, flowy fabric that gracefully cascades, evoking the feeling of a princess making her grand entrance at a ball.
Read more: Vintage, dark romance, colour: Wedding trends move away from tradition
Equally enchanting is Christian Dior’s beaded and embroidered ensemble comprising a blouse and a full skirt. Fastened with a ribbon at the waist, these showstopping pieces were apparently inspired by the elaborate outfits of the 18th century.
Local designer Khoon Hooi highlights femininity with his kebaya labuh creation for the upcoming Hari Raya season. Crafted from floral cotton lace material, the top features border lace accents and is bedecked with crystal brooches.
The satin polka-dot draped sarong, sprinkled with seed beads that extend from the waist to the hemline, displays craftsmanship, elegance and refinement.
Perhaps these polished and put together looks mark the end of the “Barbiecore” fashion aesthetic and maybe it’s time for “Ladycore” to lead?
Even Barbie actress Margot Robbie, who had been spotted in pink at many red carpet events since the movie was released in July 2024, wore black to the Oscars this year.
