We're making a case for the return of the ruched dress

When even fashion designer Victoria Beckham – known for her minimalist aesthetic – references the unapologetically bold excess of the ’80s, you know the era is making a comeback. In her Resort 2023 collection, tights in yellow, red and pink were styled with everything from skirt suits to slinky dresses. Another striking look: a ruched green asymmetrical dress, which she playfully styled with bright red stockings.

A distinctive hallmark of ’80s fashion, ruching was incorporated into almost every piece of clothing – from miniskirts to toga tops and puff-sleeved prom dresses. The reason for its enduring appeal? When designed well, this gathered overlay of fabric strips flatters any body type.

This redeeming quality of the ruched dress was not lost on designers Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler. They showcased a fun and elegant tangerine dress with side gathers, rendered in a luscious velvet material.

Lebanese fashion designer Zuhair Murad, a maestro of red carpet looks, was equally enamoured with this detail, applying it to an array of slinky column gowns in bejewelled tones of purple, pink and yellow.