Top Details & Trims
Small details give a plain top its character, from a row of buttons to a frilled edge. This hub explains the decorative and functional trims so a product name tells you what to expect. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Shaping and gathers
Smocking and Shirring
Rows of elastic stitching that gather and stretch.
What it does
Smocking, or shirring, is stitched with elastic thread to gather the fabric into a stretchy, textured panel that hugs the body.
Where you see it
You see it at the bust, waist and cuffs of summer tops. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Ruffles and Frills
Gathered strips of fabric that add soft volume.
What it does
Ruffles are gathered or pleated strips sewn to edges and seams to add movement and a feminine, romantic feel.
Where you see it
You see them at necklines, shoulders and hems.
Peplum Frill
A short flared frill at the waistline.
What it does
A peplum frill flares out from the waist over the hips, adding shape and defining the middle.
Where you see it
You see it on fitted going-out tops.
Ties and Bows
Fabric ties that fasten or cinch a top.
What it does
Ties and bows fasten a wrap, cinch a waist or gather a neckline, adjusting fit and adding a soft finish.
Where you see it
You see them on wrap tops, necklines and cuffs. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Edges and fastenings
Buttons and Plackets
A row of buttons closing part or all of the front.
What it does
Buttons on a placket close a shirt or blouse fully, or partly on a half-placket, and add a classic, tailored detail.
Where you see it
You see them on shirts, blouses and polo-style tops.
Cut-Outs
Openings that reveal a little skin for effect.
What it does
Cut-outs are shaped openings at the shoulder, waist or back that add a modern, going-out edge to a top.
Where you see it
You see them on evening and party tops.
Lace and Scallop Trim
Decorative edging along hems and necklines.
What it does
Lace or scalloped trim finishes an edge with a pretty, textured border rather than a plain hem.
Where you see it
You see it on camis, blouses and vests.
Collars
A shaped neckline finish from classic to statement.
What it does
A collar frames the neckline, from a classic shirt collar to a Peter Pan or oversized statement collar.
Where you see it
You see collars on shirts and dressier blouses.
Frequently asked questions
What is smocking on a top?
Smocking, also called shirring, is decorative stitching worked with elastic thread that gathers the fabric into stretchy, textured rows. It shapes a top to the body while allowing stretch, and is common at the bust, waist and cuffs of soft summer tops.
What is a peplum on a top?
A peplum is a short, flared frill that sits at the waistline of a fitted top and flares out over the hips. It adds structure and shape, defines the waist and gives a smart, feminine silhouette often chosen for going-out and occasion tops.
Are cut-out tops hard to wear?
Cut-out tops are easier than they look if the openings are placed at the shoulder, waist or back rather than across the chest. Choose a fit that sits securely, and pair with simple bottoms so the cut-out detail is the focus of the outfit.