Ruffle Tops Are Taking Over Our Readers' Wardrobes—Here Are 8 Styles to Shop for Fall

Starting at $17

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ruffle top trend collage
PureWow/Anthropologie/Boden

If I'm being honest, there are very few fashion trends each season that I actually find myself wanting to add into my wardrobe, but this fall, ruffle details is definitely one of them. (And it seems like plenty of PureWow readers agree at the rate they're scooping them up!). I adore the playful style that they bring to otherwise basic tops, which could lean either bohemian chic or frilly and feminine, and the wide variety that's available across retailers, from delicate trims to voluminous sleeves. Below, find eight of the best that have caught my eye recently, and start at just $17.

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Between its rich blue hue and textured cotton material, this top from Boden is bound to earn you tons of compliments. Personally, I adore the subtle lace trim on the ruffles, which up its feminine style, and the elbow-length sleeves that are long enough to keep you warm, but will still show off any bracelets you wear with it.

This top has been a favorite among PureWow readers this fall, and I totally get why considering it has a gorgeous floral lace material and easy fit that will pair nicely with everything from jeans to slip skirts. Not to mention, shoppers say it wears comfortably, as this reviewer explained: "This blouse is timeless and can be worn casually or dressed up! The fabric is beautiful and comfortable. It’s a winner!"

I've been lusting after this cardigan (which comes in striped patterns, too) for what feels like forever now, and I'm taking this season's ruffle trend as my sign that it's finally time to add it to my closet. It just looks *so* cozy and, according to reviewers, has a soft feel. "This sweater is super cute, soft and thick!! Perfect staple for a winter wardrobe, can wear to dress up or dress down with jeans, can’t wait for the weather to get a bit colder to wear it," shared one.

After seeing this top all over my Instagram feed, I finally caved and bought it—and am so happy I did. It's super lightweight, so I can wear it even now in the still hot L.A. weather, and I know it'll look great with an oversized cardigan come cooler temps. This reviewer explains it perfectly: "This top is absolutely stunning on. It is so flattering and comfortable. I'm so glad I got it," they wrote. In fact, it's so good that the brand keeps restocking it, and it even comes in a dress version, too.

If you're looking for a good ruffle top to wear with leggings (or as a coverup on a warm weather getaway), allow me to direct you straight to this tunic from Free People that comes complete with a matching scarf. Why did this one make the list? I'll let this reviewer explain. "I love the material. [The neck tie is] a cool, adjustable addition. Black is very pretty and, of course, can be worn with countless pieces. Oversized in that perfect FP way," they wrote. And considering how versatile it is, it feels like a steal at just $70.

The autumnal shade of orange on this Marie Oliver top is gorgeous (not to mention feels perfect for any The Life of a Showgirl listening parties you have planned) and I love the way the ruffles go all the way down the sleeves to add some volume. It's partially lined, so you don't have to worry about adding any layers underneath to keep it from being see-through and if you love the color as much as I do, you can pair it with this matching vegan leather skirt.

I love the type of top that you can just throw on with a pair of jeans and go, and that's exactly what this lightweight viscose one from Zara is. Its loose, relaxed fit means it'll be comfy to keep on all day long and the buttons at the neckline are functional, so you can adjust how open or closed you want it to be.

If you're loving the ruffle trend but want a more subtle take, this tee from J.Crew is a great option. It's made from a ribbed Tencel/acrylic/polyamide/elastane blend that feels super high-quality and thick, per reviewers, making it ideal for fall. Not to mention the chartreuse color is another major trend this autumn (but the top comes in other colors, too, if that's not your vibe).


natalie bio photo e1692204716113

Associate Commerce Editor

  • Writes commerce stories and features that span multiple topics, including fashion, beauty, travel, home and sales/deals
  • Has contributed to reports on ethical fashion and continues to stay up-to-date on sustainablility developments
  • Completed a bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Pittsburgh and a master's degree in fashion studies at Parsons The New School

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