Credit: Courtesy of brands
Fashion
Ruched, gathered and draped tops are everywhere right now – these are the Stylist fashion team’s favourites
3 months ago
All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article
3 min read
Ruched, gathered and draped tops are key for 2025, and we’ve found so many amazing styles that are in stores already.
‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,’ so the saying goes, and this captures our thoughts nicely when it comes to the nice top and jeans pairings we all know and love. Whether it’s to work, to brunch or for a night out, the duo will always save the day. And if you want to know which particular tops will be seen at so many upcoming events, it’s all about gathered, ruched and draped styles this year.
The small detail can make a big difference to your outfits, making a classic long-sleeve top, vest or even a strappy style feel like new. Texture is important too: think mesh materials and soft jersey for now (just like content creator India Cardona’s, below), and when spring arrives, you’ll see a lot of linen styles coming through. If it means less ironing, we’re sold!
Already spotted at some of our favourite high street shops, including & Other Stories, M&S and Zara, there are so many fun gathered tops you can pick from.
Put your basics to one side for a moment, this is the new top about to take over for 2025 – shop the best gathered, ruched and draped tops now…
Shop best gathered tops
Marks & Spencer jersey polka dot regular-fit sleeveless top
The ‘nice’ top to wear with jeans (or wide-leg trousers, as seen above), a ruched style is all you need to add a bit of interest. And if it happens to be in a fun print such as bold spots, then even better –a round of applause for Marks & Spencer with this £25 winner!
& Other Stories ruched wrap top
How pretty is the colour? This sage style will brighten up any day of the week, no matter the weather forecast. The cross-over long-sleeve top is also available in rich chocolate brown. We’d cheerfully wear both.
Jigsaw draped tie-detail top
All eyes will be on you as you arrive for brunch, a dinner date or even to work if you wear this contrasting draped top from Jigsaw. Add the matching tailored trousers and heels for after dark.
& Other Stories draped top
& Other Stories is the place to go for ruched tops this season, and this leopard print vest is going straight on our wishlist. With the love for all things animal-inspired showing no sign of waning, you’ll get so much wear out of this one across all seasons.
Next cow print long-sleeve ruched-side mesh top
A slightly more unexpected animal print that’s popping up everywhere this year. Whether it’s a top, slip skirt or a pair of fancy flats, it’s set to give a Western feel to so many spring outfits.
Reformation Truro top
Reformation isn’t just the destination for dresses that’ll suit all occasions, its the go-to for tops, too. This ruched side style with sweetheart neckline will look just as good for a night out as it will for all those upcoming summer plans.
River Island grey button-through ruched pinstripe top
Ticking off multiple trends in one with the cut-out, pinstripe and ruched design, try wearing it with jeans and trainers to keep it casual or dress up with a mini skirt and knee-high boots for dinner plans.
Shop River Island grey button through ruched pinstripe top, £418
Tala 365 asymmetric ruched-side top
We all know Tala does great athleisurewear, but did you know the London-based label also has ready-to-wear? This asymmetric top in luxe burgundy will work so well with pink or red accessories.
Zara checked tulle T-shirt
Yes, of course high street hero Zara has got in on the trend. This checked iteration will be so easy to layer underneath a blazer for work or a fuzzy faux fur coat while it’s still chilly.
Images: courtesy of brands
Sign up for our edit of what to buy, see, read and do.
By signing up you agree to occasionally receive offers and promotions from Stylist. Newsletters may contain online ads and content funded by carefully selected partners. Don’t worry, we’ll never share or sell your data. You can opt-out at any time. For more information read Stylist’s Privacy Policy
Thank you!
You’re now subscribed to all our newsletters. You can manage your subscriptions at any time from an email or from a MyStylist account.