How to Wear Eyelet, the Best Trend for Late Summer

Unsurprisingly, the eyelet has quickly become fashion’s favorite texture as of late. The functional feature takes the concept of embroidery and makes it dainty and purposeful, adding pretty texture to tops, skirts, and dresses while keeping you well-ventilated even when the sweltering sun is at its peak. Eyelets have been around for centuries. In fact, the humble eyelet was a staple of the Edwardian and Victorian eras. It’s no wonder it’s now a fascination with the runways turning to antique inspiration.

At Copenhagen Fashion Week earlier this month, the eyelet could be found on street style stars in all variations, but this look was also seen in recent collections, too. Most notably, the eyelet was front and center at Simone Rocha, where the delicate little embroideries were sewn into pillow-shaped handbags and on the edges of skirts. Here’s how to style the trend for every occasion.

An eyelet dress + wide-leg pants

Whether you opt to go for true vintage or vintage-inspired, a dainty eyelet dress, apron, or tunic gets a new attitude when paired with funky wide-leg pants. Even better if they come with a fun print.

The beauty in this look is the unexpected contrast. Floral-printed jeans or trousers with leopard spots, polka dots, or camo make the girlish eyelet feel new and modern, with a dose of joy. The look doesn’t take itself too seriously. Accessories like oversized sunglasses, a colorful bag that pops, and a scarf worn in your hair add personality.

An eyelet top + jeans

The formality of the eyelet gets grounded with a pair of cool, rugged jeans that are baggier in silhouette. “Paired with barrel jeans, it turns into something unexpected,” says the stylist Marina Ingvarsson. “People will stop you on the street for this one.” A simple heel, big dark sunglasses, and one piece of jewelry, like a sculptural cuff or long pendant necklace, add a chic element.

The little black eyelet dress

You know and love the LBD, now it’s time to try the little black eyelet dress. It brings the drama of darkness as we head into fall with the light, ethereal texture of summer. And styling it is easy. “Black eyelet takes something that usually reads sweet and bridal and gives it an edge,” adds Ingvarsson. She suggests “bare legs, leather sandals, hair undone, one thin gold chain.” If you’re in the mood for more jewelry, adding a thick black cuff gives you a cool artsy vibe.

Proportion play

Switch it up with unexpected proportions. A pair of camo shorts or denim jorts gives a sweet little eyelet top an entirely new look. There are so many ways to experiment here. Going monochromatic with a deep hue like olive green is another way to add a fresh spin to the usual white one-and-done eyelet style.

Eyelet top + statement skirt

When in doubt, wear your eyelets with a statement skirt. Choose a subtle eyelet moment on top, like a little spaghetti-strap top with a chic eyelet trim, or an eyelet blouse with little embellishments on the sleeves, and go bolder on the bottom. A cargo skirt is the ultimate contrast, or you could go in a ladylike direction with a structured silhouette. “Pencil skirts are having their own moment, so pairing that shape with eyelet does double duty,” says Ingvarsson.