Whether it's a date night with your partner or brunch with your besties, 'jeans and a nice top' is always a go-to. After a while, though, that fail-safe can sometimes feel a little, well, basic. Not anymore! Knot fastenings (which are also called frog clasps) are the tiny detail making big waves this summer, transforming otherwise simple tops into runway-ready looks.

With its decorative cord loops and ornate buttons, knot fastenings elevate everything from blouses to babydoll tops as well as waistcoats and blazers. Many designs – like this popular Zara offering – also feature a mandarin collar and capped sleeve, which further leans into the elaborate trend.

Beyond Zara's must-buy satin-top (which comes in three colour options) and is already sitting pretty in our closet, we're eyeing up this puff sleeve variation from M&S. As well as the very on-trend knot-button fastening down the front of the top, M&S has gone one step further with the voluminous elasticated sleeves, which create a statement silhouette, contrasted by the timeless round neckline.

this on trend design detail makes date night tops feel less basic – m&s' £36 puff sleeve style looks designer
M&S

M&S' frog clasp top comes in two colours – black or ivory – and, although it is slightly more expensive than Zara's £25.99 version, it'll take you through to next season as well, as it sits somewhere between blouse and blazer. That doesn't mean you can't wear it to all your summer social events, however. The top's regular but slightly boxy fit also makes it ideal for the heatwaves we've been having in the UK of late. Sweaty fabric clinging to every inch of your skin? No thanks!

Shop all our fave frog clasp tops (including that trending Zara must-have, of course)...

Knot Button Detail Puff Sleeve Top

Knot Button Detail Puff Sleeve Top

Knot Button Detail Puff Sleeve Top

Credit: M&S

Satin Top with Piping and Frog Fastening

Satin Top with Piping and Frog Fastening

Satin Top with Piping and Frog Fastening

Credit: Zara

Knot Detail Top

Knot Detail Top

Knot Detail Top

Credit: Pull & Bear

Nelly Button Trim Top

Nelly Button Trim Top

Nelly Button Trim Top

Credit: Damson Madder

Mandarin Collar Knit Rib Top

Mandarin Collar Knit Rib Top

Mandarin Collar Knit Rib Top

Credit: ASOS

White Lace Stand Collar Top

White Lace Stand Collar Top

White Lace Stand Collar Top

Credit: Mint Velvet

Now, should we treat ourselves to a new pair of jeans, too?

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Jade Biggs
Freelance Writer
Jade Biggs (she/her) is one of Cosmopolitan UK's freelance writers, working across all sections including entertainment, beauty, body, and sex and relationships. She previously held the position of Features Writer, covering everything from breaking news and the latest royal gossip, to the health and fitness trends taking over your TikTok feed. Jade has a degree in journalism and has been a journalist and content editor for ten years, interviewing leading researchers, high-profile influencers, and industry experts in that time. She is a cat mom to four fur babies and is obsessed with Drag Race, bottomless brunches, and wearing clothes only suitable for Bratz dolls. Follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.