We know fashion likes to take its cues from the past. But the latest trend threatening to takeover our wardrobes delves a little deeper into the history books. Shakespearean fashion, as its been aptly dubbed, draws inspiration from the late renaissance era, when voluminous sleeves, peasant blouses, and ruffled collars reigned supreme.
This season, several major shows reached through history for the drama and romance of Elizabethan fashion with renewed enthusiasm. At Dior Autumn Winter 2025, silhouettes echoed the poetic spirit of Virginia Woolf's 1928 novel, Orlando, blending corseted forms with sheer layers and soft tailoring.
At CHANEL that same season, the design team flirted with history through bold, frilled collars and romantic blouses, while Alexander McQueen leaned, as always, into the gothic, via theatrical structure, laced bodices, and shadowy grandeur. Similarly, Simone Rocha’s recent shows have practically become a masterclass in Shakespeare made modern, with puff sleeves, sheer overlays, occasional corseted bodices, and (as always) flourishes of ribbon taking centre stage.
It's already steadily influencing our wardrobes, too. Dua Lipa leant into the trend in more ways than one, sunning herself in a Chloé blouse that echoed an Elizabethan chemise, finished with plenty of volume and embroidery. Chappell Roan is another huge proponent for the era, regularly dabbling in Shakespearean-esque styles defined by excess. Take her look at The Daily Front Row’s Fashion Awards in April, for example. The singer channelled full Renaissance drama in a floral brocade mini dress and a towering white ruff collar pulled from Alexander McQueen’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection.
Of course, you don't need to commit to the cause quite so dramatically. Subtle reminders of Shakespeare's influence everywhere. Bella Hadid was recently spotted in a vintage blouse with a dramatic collar by Vivienne Westwood—herself no stranger to historical referencing—paired with simple jeans and ballet flats.
No matter how big you want to go, shop our favourite Shakespearean-style pieces, below.
ULLA JOHNSON The Anais convertible cape-effect denim jacket
VALENTINO GARAVANI Bow-embellished broderie anglaise cotton blouse
CHLOÉ Cropped ruffled broderie anglaise cotton-voile blouse
HELSA The Mademoiselle Mini Dress
ALAÏA Asymmetric ruffled tiered denim skirt
WITH JEAN Aster Top
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD White Bea Corset Cardigan
Featured products are selected editorially. Our opinions are our own. Occasionally, we may receive a standard affiliate partner fee if you make a purchase using the links we feature.
