When Miu Miu sent models down the runway during its spring/summer 2026 fashion show wearing an array of aprons – plain blue workwear styles, frilly floral pinnys and even a bejewelled bib or two – it’s safe to say the internet had a lot of thoughts. While Miuccia Prada positioned it as a tribute to the “work of women,” some critics accused it of being an out-of-touch ‘class cosplay,’ while others felt it was anti-feminist, reading as an endorsement for the controversial tradwife aesthetic.
Regardless of your thoughts, the apron has been firmly entrenched within the SS26 trends, endorsed by the likes of Emma Corin on the red carpet for the premiere of 100 Nights of Hero, plus Alexa Chung, Paloma Elsesser, and Chloe Sevigny.
On the high street, however, we’ve seen more subtle interpretations of the look in the form of tie side tops. By borrowing from apron strings and featuring panelled overlays that reference bib details, these designs serve as a more wearable reimagining. Not to mention, allowing you to nod to the designer collections without having to fork out triple figures on an item you’ve already got hanging in your kitchen cupboard.
For a stylish iteration, look no further than M&S's pure cotton lace bib detail embroidered top.
With a neat square neckline framed by short cap sleeves, decorative floral lace and frilled trims add a touch of romance and elegance, perfectly finished with string tie detailing down each side. Pair with coordinating white cotton shorts for a holiday-ready ensemble, or elevate your jeans and a nice top outfit for summer days and nights closer to home.
M&S Pure Cotton Lace Bib Detail Embroidered Top
Shop more of our favourite apron-inspired tie-side tops available on the high street now:
ASOS DESIGN Tie Side Denim Long Line Top
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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!
