How to style tassels and fringing
3rd Jun 2018 Fashion & Beauty
Tassels are a dramatic look that can leave you looking like the epitome of luxury if executed right, heres how to nail the trend and avoid the curtain look
Where did the trend come from?
From left to right: Acne SS18, Balmain SS18, Naeem Khan SS18, Anna Sui SS18
A look that positively screams resort wear, tassels have long been a tool of high-end designers to add a touch of quirky texture to an outfit.
As holiday looks become more luxury, tassels and fringing have become a key part of the summer catwalk shows for the likes of Anna Sui, Acne and Balmain.
Whether that be through dramatic tiered dresses or festival-esque capes, tassels speak both to the bohemian and Edwardian trends depending on how they are worn and what they are paired with.
Floaty and free, they’re a wonderful staple to any summer wardrobe.
What should I be looking for?
From left to right: Athena Procopiou Dress, TK Maxx Vest, Loeffler Randal Tote Bag, Christian Louboutin Loafers, Zara Blouse, Mango Black Vest Top, Dodo Bar Skirt, New Look Earrings, Zara Smock Dress, Topshop Suede Loafers, Talitha Trousers, River Island miniskirt, RiverIsland Bracelet
Good quality. A good tassel should be made from hundreds if not thousands of threads, and should be sealed effectively to avoid fraying. Polysilk blends or high quality wools work well, but be sure to be vigilant over any snags or pulls.
To truly embrace the fun of the look, pick bold colours with your tassels and fringing. Don’t be afraid to add your own either—a row of tassels can be bought at most haberdasheries and do wonders to upcycle a plain top or dress if applied to the hem, waist or bustline.
How should I style this trend?
From left to right: Dodo Bar Or Jacket, Dorothy Perkins Dress, Staud Skirt, Dorothy Perkins Necklace, Anthropologie Purse, New Look Top, New Look Slip On Shoes, Dorothy Perkins Dress, Oliver Bonas Hat, Topshop Bardot Dress, And Other Stories Sandals, Boden Keyring, New Look Earrings, Jacquemus Wrap Skirt
To achieve the boho look, a relaxed look is the way forward. Choose lightweight fabrics such as cotton or cheesecloth, and opt for shapes that skim the waist and thighs, such as smock dresses, a-line skirts and wide legged trousers.
Too many tassels can be a little too House On The Prairie, so consider a shorter hemline or pairing your tasseled piece with something more subdued, such as a plain blouse or dark pair of jeans.
A high-neck blouse and tailored tassel trousers works well for a smart-casual dress code, or add a tasseled loafer to a suit for a more masculine look.
For those seeking less of an investment, statement jewellery can really a touch of summer to a plainer outfit. Tasselled earrings burst onto the scene last summer with no sign of slowing down, but fringing is fast expanding into clutch bags, keyrings and shoes for 2018.
Where can I get this look?
From left to right: Primark Cardigan, Stella McCartney Trousers, River Island Bag, River Island Top, Matalan Shorts, Oliver Bonas Scarf, New Look Sandals, New Look Jacket, True Decadence Skirt, Zara Dress, River Island Loafers, River Island Trousers, New Look Bag, H&M Earrings
Essentially everywhere! There truly is a tassel for every budget, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, it’s pretty simple to make your own.
Try Topshop and River Island for great summer holiday pieces, or designers Loeffler Randall and Athena Procopiou for something rather more luxury.
For true converts, Anthropologie is the next logical shop stop—their tassels extend from their clothing range right through to homeware and furniture.
