This Romantic Dress Trend Is Popping Up Everywhere Right Now

Ruching fabric is a crafty sewing process that's been used in Europe since the Middle Ages. The technique is achieved by gathering fabric to create a repeating pleated effect, and it usually manifests in something like a pretty smocked top or ripple skirt. For summer 2019, ruched dresses, skirt and tops are trending among the fashion set. Designers have added the artisanal embellishment to their collections for a touch that is both romantic and effortless during the warmer months.

"Ruching is a key trend element to our summer collection, which we have incorporated in both rayon crepe and linen fabrications," Faithfull the Brand designer Joyah Takefala tells TZR. "We love the feminine ruching detail on our Es Saada Mini Dress, designed to be worn on balmy, summer nights. Pair it with lace-up sandals, a mini beaded bag, and your favorite spritz."

On the runway, romantic brands like Brock, and quirky-cool designers like Maryam Nassir Zadeh have embraced the trend alike. Right now, the gathered techniques that reign supreme are smocking and a looser ripple effect that results in the fabric looking slightly scrunched. Together, the two are ruling the summer trends circuit in huge part thanks to the Instagram influencers who are styling them both casually for day, and as part of fancier evening ensembles. Ahead, see just how widespread the ruching trend has gone and if you're on board with the look, shop the picks to add it to your wardrobe.

Day-To-Night Style

Faithfull the Brand sources, produces, and designs each garment in Bali. Opt for one of the brands breezy dresses when you need a look that easily transitions from day to night.

Crop Top

If you're interested in taking your summer daytime look up a notch, simply swap out your basic tee and rotate a ruched crop top in its place.

Vacation Dressing

If you're traveling somewhere warm this season and are stuck on what to pack, you can't go wrong with a beautiful ruched dress like the LWD above. Toss a denim jacket over it for the evenings.

Victorian Vibe

Since ruching fabric has been around so long, it often can evoke a hint of nostalgia, especially if the technique is done in the chest area like the wine-hued dress above.

Dress + Sneakers

There's nothing better than stocking your summer closet with breezy dresses you can throw on in a flash and still feel polished and put-together in. This month, make yours a ruched one in a lively print. Add sneakers for a cool daytime combination.

Pop Of Color

Aimee Song's new collection of summer separates includes a slew of ruched pieces, like this tangerine-colored dress that would make any night out on the town more fun. Since the ruching is adjustable, it's a choose-your-own-adventure kind of look.

Classic Combo

A top and skirt combination translates to a myriad of scenarios, especially if said skirt has a pretty gathered effect like Tamu Mcpherson's midi above.

Floaty White Top

If you're wearing sparkly pants (you should be), a simple white smocked top is the perfect companion. For a slightly more subdued ensemble, try styling with jeans.

Nightime Design

A simple ruched dress worn with a straw bag and heels is a fail-safe look for balmy summer evenings. Just add a swipe of lipstick.

Romantic Babydoll

If you're into brunch then you're probably into brunch looks, right? Invest in a pretty ruched top, it'll work wonders for all your stylish culinary endeavors.

Trend On Trend

Speaking of trends, if Bermuda shorts are on your radar, but you're still not sure how to wear them, try a cropped ruched top with your denim — as seen above.