Shaking off any associations with bohemian or flapper aesthetics is the modern fringe — it’s bolder, more intentional and irresistibly fashion-forward. Here’s how to style it right
Priyanka Chopra sports an asymmetric fringe dress from the Burberry Winter 2025 look at a London screening of the film, Heads of State. Pic courtesy/@bollywoodwomencloset (right) Deepika Padukone’s striped fringe dress highlights its balance between structure and fluidity. Pic courtesy/@shaleenanathani
In what has arguably been a year of throwbacks, the latest trend to resurface from the early 2010s is the fringe. And, as has been the case with most of its peers, the fringe has experienced a sleek, contemporary ‘glow up’, replacing its decidedly bohemian flair with a more minimal and yet dramatic vibe. “Today’s fringe isn’t just about design detailing; it’s about movement, expression and mood. As a design element, a fringe brings life to fabric, turning even simple silhouettes into playful looks. Fringe has an element of freedom and movement; it’s bold yet feminine, playful yet powerful,” explains fashion designer Aanchal Bubber-Mehta. But as is the case with all dramatic details, balance is key, she warns, laying down simple guidelines that make fringe accents seem effortless and not overwhelming.
Highlight the fringe
(From left) Khushi Kapoor sports an intricately styled, short black dress that uses fringe details to accentuate her shoulders (middle) Ananya Panday outfit captures glamour. Pic courtesy/@makeupbyriddhima (right)Karan Johar in an outfit for fashion designer Falguni Shane Peacock’s India show. Pic courtesy/@ekalakhani
The placement of the fringe accent is important — keep it focused on one area, such as the sleeves, hemline or neckline, Mehta suggests. Too much fringe can feel theatrical and distract from the overall look. Further, the inherent movement in fringe attracts the eye. Use fringe details to accentuate your best features, such as your shoulders, arms or legs. Finally, to avoid wardrobe malfunctions, avoid wearing fringe for outdoor or breezy events. “Let it shine in controlled environments where its movement enhances your look rather than overpowers it,” Mehta notes.
Festive-wear with a twist
Fringe can add instant glamour and modernity to traditional wear. “Try a contemporary cut blouse with embroidered or shimmer fringe paired with a brocade or metallic lehenga. The key is to use a rich base fabric such as raw silk, shimmer fabric or satin so that when the fringe moves, it feels luxe and dramatic,” Mehta shares. For a more modern twist, experiment with a full tasselled maxi skirt worn with a brocade shirt-blouse for an Indo-Western statement. Fringe can also be introduced subtly, as sleeve detailing with beads adding shimmer and glamour. Make sure the fringe detail is placed just above the elbow, so it doesn’t get in the way while eating or greeting guests. For an evening event, long beaded fringe in gold, silver or ivory adds couture-level glamour, while keeping the silhouette fluid and feminine.
(From left) Shanaya Kapoor poses in a blue dress that highlights the rich base fabric of satin (middle)Sonam Kapoor in a powder blue dress, with sharp make-up. Pic courtesy/@sonamkapoor (right) Khushi Kapoor sports a custom-look styled with a fringe and shimmer dress. Pics courtesy/@tanghavri
Work with your body type
Fringe interacts with body shape, so its placement can make a difference.
>> If you have a pear-shaped body or are heavier around the hips, avoid mini or midi fringe skirts that draw attention to that area. Instead, bring focus upward with fringe on sleeves or necklines to balance proportions. Fringe across the shoulders of a western shirt, for example, adds visual interest while highlighting the waist for a more fitted look.
>> Petite frames can carry off fringe skirts beautifully; the vertical movement visually elongates the body.
Aanchal Bubber Mehta
>> Those with an athletic build can soften their look with asymmetric or diagonal fringe placement, adding fluidity to structured silhouettes.
>> For curvier figures, choose layered or tonal fringe that moves without adding volume; side panels or hemline detailing create flattering lines without bulk. When it comes to colour, stay subtle and let the fringe do all the talking.
Material matters
Fabric choice defines how the fringe falls and moves. “Choose fabrics that hold structure yet allow fluidity. Knits, suede, leather, crepe, viscose, or metallic blends work best. The fringe should be cut on the bias or made from fabric that doesn’t fray easily. A tone-on-tone fringe piece feels modern and sleek, while a contrasting fringe brings in the festive flair,” says Mehta. Play with length too: longer fringe adds drama, while shorter fringe feels sportier and more contemporary. Most importantly, let the fringe move naturally — it should swish lightly as you walk, not stick or tangle, she signs off.
Fringe 101
As the year-end festivities kick off, pick the right fringe to make your look shine:
>> Ombre fringe adds depth and colour play, which is perfect for evening wear
>> Beaded fringe brings shine and structure, ideal for cocktail nights
>> Striped or patterned fringe adds a modern twist to classic cuts
>> Asymmetric or diagonal fringe creates visual movement even when you’re standing still
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