Frills

Frills are decorative fabric elements added to clothing or textiles to create volume along an edge. A frill is typically a strip of fabric attached to a seam and gathered or pleated to form a ruffled edge, though the term is also used more broadly to describe lace trim, flounces, or additional edging. Frills can appear on collars, cuffs, hems, dresses, blouses, lingerie, as well as on home textiles such as curtains and bedding.

Frills have many variations. A ruffle and a frill are related but not identical: a frill is often a long, narrow strip drawn up or pleated, while a ruffle may be broader and more evenly gathered. A flounce is a curved or circular piece added to a garment edge to create fullness. Materials used for frills include cotton, satin, lace, chiffon, and synthetic blends. Frills can be purely decorative or functional, as edging that finishes a seam or reinforces an edge.

Historically, frills have appeared in many cultures and periods. They were prominent in 18th- and 19th-century European fashion, especially in Victorian attire, and remain common in bridal wear and children’s clothing. In everyday language, “frills” can also refer to unnecessary or extravagant add-ons beyond what is essential.

In contemporary design, frills are used to convey whimsy, romance, or vintage influence. They can be employed sparingly for subtle detail or in bold, voluminous forms as a stylistic statement. Frills affect garment weight, movement, and fit, and may require delicate care for textiles such as lace or silk.