The 'Copenhagen blouse' is the cool girl's summer hero
There's a new cool girl fashion hero dominating high streets and social media feeds everywhere this summer, and it's a trend we're totally on board with thanks to a) how pretty it looks, b) how directional it feels and c) how pleasingly easy it is to wear. Say hello to the tie-front blouse. Or, as the fashion pack are calling it, 'the Copenhagen blouse', given its Danish origins (read: that Ganni blouse) and dominance of Copenhagen Fashion Week street style.
The stand-out feature of this unapologetically feminine style is its string of coquettish bows running down the front. The shape is usually loose and boxy for a casual silhouette that keeps things cool rather than twee, while some of our favourites have playful puff sleeves, nostalgic '90s peplums, boho-inspired ruffles or oversized collars.
Chances are you'll already be familiar with the queen of the tie-front tops: Ganni's iconic Cotton Poplin Peplum Tie Blouse, particularly in trending but timeless leopard print (hint: we found a similar £28 alternative on ASOS). But other labels have also been getting in on the fun, including boho go-to Free People, colourful Kitri, whimsical Sister Jane, and actress Anya Taylor-Joy's recent London brand of choice, the surprisingly affordable Damson Madder. Shop our favourites below.
In terms of how to wear a tie-front top, you can either wear it solo, over a bra or bikini (this is a great holiday capsule wardrobe buy for going from beach to bar) or, if you prefer more coverage and it leaves skin peeking through, over a simple camisole or slip dress. Think last autumn/winter's popular tie-front cardigan, in summery form.
To wear your tie-front top over a bra without your underwear showing (our favourite way to wear it so that skin peeks through, but subtly), opt for lingerie with as thin a front band as possible. Then, cover it by wrapping one of the blouse's ties around it before it knotting it as normal. Fashion influencer Chynna Beverly Lim shows us how below:
Team your tie-front top with everything from linen trousers and sliders to tailored shorts and sandals – it'll be a sartorial lifesaver in a heatwave. Dress it up with a satin skirt, blazer and heels. Or if, like me, you like to balance your girly with a bit of edgy oomph, pick up a pair of studded ballet flats (I just bought these Mint Velvet beauties).
What we love about this micro trend is that while it might feel adventurous and slightly intimidating, it's really just a blouse with an up-to-date twist, and a super versatile one at that. Yes, some styles show a bit of skin, but only a flirty, French-style hint, which feels perfect for sunnier days without veering into 'inappropriate for the office' territory (your office dress code depending, of course).
If that still feels risky but you don't want to layer it, either tie the bows more tightly to close the gaps if possible, or look for tops that feature delicate bow detailing purely as a decorative finish. Try this Nobody's Child linen number, Ralph Lauren button-front style or RIXO broderie anglaise blouse.
Convinced enough to try a tie-front top this summer? Here are just a few of our favourites...
Shop our favourite tie-front tops
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