Fashion Editor's Edit: smock tops are having a moment

Summer is no time for complication. Which could explain why one of the season’s most ubiquitous trends is also gloriously simple.

If you don’t already own a shirred smock top, I’ll wager you will before autumn arrives.

Thanks to the decorative stitching technique, it quite literally moulds to fit in a way that’s not only super-comfortable but uber-flattering.

Plus, it conforms to two of fashion’s current obsessions: if you’re all about the Nineties, choose one that’s cropped at the waist with cap sleeves or spaghetti straps; or if it’s the romantic Little House on the Prairie vibe you’re after, opt for pretty prints, like floral or gingham, with billowing sleeves and bows.

Labels including Faithfull the Brand, Rixo and Reformation are masters of the look, with smock tops in spades, while on the high street look to Arket and Topshop for subtly shirred styles with serious staying power.

Simply pair with jeans and a picnic.

image

Monki shirred top, £25, buy now

image

H&M Smocked tulle top, £17.99, buy now

image

Arket Smocked Voile Blouse, £39, buy now

image

Reformation Plathe Shirred Crepe Blouse, £165, buy now

image

Topshop Green Check Smock Top, £12, buy now

image

Rixo Eloise Graphic Print Ruched Top, £111, buy now

image

Abercrombie & Fitch Puff Sleeve Smock Top, £42, buy now

image

Ganni Seersucker Check Smock Top, £155, buy now

image

Faithfull The Brand Lenora Shirred Smock Top, £132, buy now