How to Dress Romantic When You’re Not Into Ruffles

For years, the fashion world has been caught in a cycle of optimization. We've witnessed the rise of the algorithm-driven wardrobe—a sterile aesthetic curated for high-resolution screens but disconnected from human touch. Yet, after seasons dominated by the lines of corporate chic and clinical minimalism, we’re about to enter a softer era. Romance, with its translucent fabrics, ruffles, and unapologetically sentimental flair, is making a triumphant return to the forefront. What we're seeing is a renaissance of new romantic style—sheer pieces, creative florals, trailing hems, emotion expressed openly. In a culture that seems to be flattened into performance metrics, fashion is striving to reconnect with depth again. It craves texture, longs for feeling, yearns to be human.

What is romantic style clothing in its essence? Romance in style has roots that stretch back to ancient Greece and gained popularity during the Victorian era in the 19th century. Fashion during this time became about high waistlines, sleek silhouettes, intricate French lace, embellishments, embroidery, billowing sleeves. Fast forward to the 1970s, and we saw a powerful resurgence of romanticism through the lens of British designer Laura Ashley, who established her textile design company. At that moment modernism was dominant, and amidst geometric fashion, Ashley’s designs offered a dreamy escape to a carefree past.

As spring approaches, there's an undeniable urge to don those cute and floaty romantic outfits. If you’re eager to embrace the romantic style but don’t want to look like a Jane Austen character, keep reading!

Fluid textiles

Romantic style thrives on feeling—and few things feel as human as movement. Fluid fabrics like silk, satin, soft viscose echo the elegance of romantic-era silhouettes, where flow and drape did the most. There’s something emotional in the way satin catches the light or how a silk blouse grazes the skin. Think sleek tops with satin skirts, or pair a flowing blouse with wide-leg trousers. Don’t concentrate on the volume, rather the softness and feminine flair.

The Sculpted tube top from House of Dagmar, together with the Satin midi skirt by Erika Cavallini, embodies that lustrous and flowing drama we are talking about. This look could be called romantic minimalism.

Florals in linen

Linen stands out as one of the premier fabrics of a romantic aesthetic. Whether in the form of short-sleeved blouses, midi dresses, tailored shirts, it adds a rustic, natural charm to any romantic look. A white linen dress can be the ideal choice for a leisurely stroll at sunset, a floral linen blouse paired with smart trousers creates a chic office outfit—the adaptability of linen makes it a must for anyone who adores the romantic style.

We love how floral patterns make linen even more romantic—the Floral printed linen blouse from 120% Lino is the perfect example. To make the most of this light piece, pair it with the Straight-leg linen trousers by Erika Cavallini. Romanticism can be quite polished when styled properly.

Powder pink

Also known as millennial pink, this pastel shade has taken over spring runways and street style, blending classic charm and fresh excitement. You'll discover this color in a variety of chic pieces that manage to stand out thanks to their sweet and undeniably romantic energy.

It can be a top, a shirt, a blouse, even a matching set, but we suggest going with a dress—the Puff-sleeve open-back dress by Erika Cavallini in particular. Despite its mini length, it has enough features of a classic romantic dress—puff sleeves, cut-out details, subtle draping, and, of course, the color. Add a pair of Hereu Woven sandals to the look, minimalist accessories and—a confident smile.

Evening gown

An evening gown in a romantic style has nothing to do with red carpets or rigid dress codes—it’s the soft drama of a flowing A-line, the charm of an off-shoulder neckline, the ease of a tie-detail sleeve. Choose midi to maxi lengths that move without making a scene. Ruffles? Maybe, but used sparingly—new romanticism prefers restraint. Pastels are the obvious choice, but moody tones add depth, nodding to the rise of gothic romance. It’s elegance with emotion, not extravagance.

Our suggestion is the Bow-detailing longsleeve dress by Erika Cavallini. Made in an ivory color with tie detailing and sleeve slits, it is versatile enough to suit an evening soirée and a cocktail party alike. Complete the look with a chic raffia Crossbody bag from Hereu, and you are ready to shine.

Sweetheart cleavage

The sweetheart neckline is a showstopper—curved, sculpted, and you guessed it—romantic. It traces soft lines and subtle contours, spotlighting the waist and bust with a nod to vintage silhouettes of the ’40s and ’50s. There’s a fairytale whisper in its shape, but don’t let the charm fool you—it’s not stuck in the past. Today, it shows up in knits and sleek tops, ready to be worn with denim, suiting, or even sneakers. Romantic—yes. But not as obvious.

Have a look at the Cashmere knit top by Lisa Yang—made in neutral grey, this cashmere staple is a must-have base layer for looks with romantic charm. Team it with the Wide-leg suit trousers from Beige Brown if you are up for a smart pairing, or go with denim for a more casual take.

Gothic Sheers

Recent seasons have seen a more exposed variety of sheers, but the trending aesthetic has taken a gauzy, translucent turn for spring—romantic goth chic. With flowy cuts and painterly finishes, this category is a master at making imaginations run wild, featuring laces of all sorts, veils, dark floral patterns.

Even though it may sound too dramatic and expressive, there is a quiet way to dress in this aesthetic. Combine the Lace knit top and the Organza maxi skirt from House of Dagmar, for example, for a sheer black look that mixes three different textures, all of which fall directly into the romantic category.

White dress

The dress is arguably the most iconic romantic piece of clothing. Usually, with a long, flowy silhouette, light colors, and delicate touches like florals, embroidery, or lace. Romantic dress comes in a myriad of styles and forms to suit every taste. If you're drawn to something more lively and lengthy, try a flowy midi dress. Give it a modern twist by pairing it with trainers and a biker jacket, or keep it chic with matching pumps. For those who appreciate an elegant look, an A-line dress is a fantastic option—flattering, modest, and perfect for the office and post-work outings.

Check out the white Poplin V-neck dress from House of Dagmar—cinched waist, short wide sleeves, A-line silhouette—it was made to flatter. And the best part, you can wear it daily—just take your Flat square crossbody bag from Hereu with essentials and enjoy your day.

Airy blouse

The blouse is the heart of every romantic wardrobe, the essence of femininity. Consider a printed version with delicate florals or a solid-color one adorned with intricate details on the buttons, collar, cuffs, enhanced by ruffles and bows. If you lean towards prints, a simple floral design is a lovely choice. Yet, an airy white blouse can’t be beat. To elevate the romantic vibe, pair it with a flowing skirt, or for a more contemporary style, go with your fave jeans.

The Cinched cotton top and the A-lined silk skirt from House of Dagmar were made to create a lovely romantic pairing. The cinched waist of the blouse is followed by the A-shape of the skirt, resulting in a sweet bell-shaped silhouette.