The Rules of Romance

Photography: Bevan Davis | Styling: Chicara Bruseke 

Soft and ethereal, the romantic trend is fast becoming one of our favourite of the season, providing some light reprieve from the cool and clean athleisure look. Rodarte models adorned in baby’s breath ushered in the mood for S/S, with lashings of tulle and touch-me textures coming together to create a floral fantasy of sorts.

Prepare to fall in love with botanical prints, ruffles and flared sleeves all over again. This is our take on the rules of romance.

The rule: do pink on pink

Pink sportswear has been the aesthetic du jour in recent months, but this time round, the colour is getting a slightly softer rework. Details like frills and sleeve ties add something extra to a simple silhouette, giving this particular dress an 80s prom aesthetic that’s of the moment.

The rule: go floral

Forever feminine, florals never fail to add a level of intrigue, even when oversized (as they are this season). Adding to the sensory effect with a delicate fabric and flared sleeves, this dress is ideal for weddings and daytime soirees.

The rule: take it off the shoulder

There’s something surprisingly sensual about a dress that highlights the shoulders, and in white, it captures a warmer-days-are-on-their-way mood. Make it between-seasons appropriate (and put a unique spin on it) by layering the thin dress under an A-line skirt.

The rule: ruffle it up

Draped delicately over everything from dresses to blouses, ruffles have a knack for making simple staples, like this sun dress, feel a lot more current. Whether you’re enveloping yourself in ruffles – think dresses with tiered frills – or looking for some light coverage, you’re guaranteed an outfit that’s on point.

The rule: go sheer

Sheer tops in lighter hues have a Virgin Suicides air about them that’s more romantic than risqué. We love how the subtle sheen of this mesh top complements the silver in the skirt, and simultaneously stops the metallic hue from shouting. If you want to go slightly more daring, add a lace bralette for dramatic effect.