Shirred bodices across dresses, blouses and tops are set to be a trending design detail this spring, and it's all down to the Renaissance dressing revival. The aesthetic has been brought back into the spotlight, thanks in equal parts to the cinematic release of Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights and the serious looks Margot Robbie was serving on the film's press tour, and we can't help but swoon over the dark romance connotations.
Corsets are, of course, the most obvious nod to the look. However, in an era that famously de-prioritised women's comfort in the name of fashion, shirring offers an accessible alternative that promises easy wearability all day long. The term refers to gathered fabric that creates a structured, form-fitting silhouette that highlights the bust while simultaneously contouring the waist – similar to the body shape created by a corset. Far from uncomfortable, shirring has plenty of stretch and elasticity to accommodate both smaller and larger chests without ever feeling tight.
Primark's simple cotton shirred bodice tee is the perfect example of this – plus, it's the easiest way to nail the trend in your own wardrobe.
Crafted from 100% cotton, the design adopts a classic short-sleeve t-shirt style with the shirred bodice creating extra shape with a fitted waist and almost peplum-like hem. Available in a soft ivory hue as well as an on-trend chocolate brown colourway, we're tempted to snap up both given its under £10 price tag!
As for how to style a shirred bodice top, there's no need to dig out your bustle and petticoats. This design is ideal for dressing up or down, working effortlessly with denim for the ultimate ‘jeans and a nice top’ ensemble.
You could also try layering this top over a button-down collared shirt and wearing with tailored trousers for an office-appropriate outfit. The stretchy shirring easily accommodates extra fabric underneath while still maintaining the desired effect of snatching in your waist.
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The options are endless! We certainly won't be waiting for spring to arrive to break this baby out, but a little bit of sunshine right about now would certainly be nice – in case you're listening, weather man.
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Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
