Knotted details

Sometimes the difference between an ordinary outfit and one that makes a statement comes down to a single knot. That’s what the knotted detail trend is all about. Tie a longsleeve top, blouse, or sweater around your waist, and your look instantly gets color, shape, and a little attitude. But the trend goes beyond that one styling trick. Tops with a knotted detail or a twist in the fabric, longsleeves with tie straps that you knot around your waist yourself: the knot is everywhere this season. And you don’t need much to try it. An item already hanging in your closet is enough to get started. We’ll show you where the trend comes from and how to wear it.

Tying a sweater around your waist is nothing new; it was already part of the sporty, preppy look: you didn’t have to wear your sweater, but it came along anyway. Now that knot is back, and this time it’s styled very deliberately. On the runways for fall and winter, you saw sweaters worn as belts around the waist, as scarves around the neck, and even tied diagonally across the body. By now, the knot has also become part of the item itself: tops with a twisted knot at the side, long-sleeved tops with tie straps, or jeans with extra cords that you tie around your waist.

And why now? Basics have become increasingly understated in recent seasons: neutral colors, clean lines, less is more. A knot breaks that up without requiring an entirely new outfit. It defines your waist, adds a pop of color, and makes a simple look a little more playful. Plus, it’s fall. Chilly in the morning, but warm again in the afternoon? Then you simply have your extra layer with you.

You can style a knotted detail in all kinds of ways. Prefer to ease into it? Choose a top with the knot already built in. A white tee with a twist at the side paired with straight-leg jeans is just a little more special than a regular T-shirt. Or go for a long-sleeve with tie straps in grey or black. Tie it tightly for a fitted look, or let the straps hang loosely for something more relaxed. Add ballet flats or sneakers and you're ready to go.

Prefer the classic version? Tie a long-sleeve or sweater around your waist over a monochrome outfit. Denim on denim is the perfect base: a denim jacket with wide-leg jeans, with a red long-sleeve tied around your waist. That one color brings the whole look together. Ecru, grey or chocolate brown work just as well as a base.

Your jeans can join in too. Tie the Lotte baggy jeans at your waist using the extra drawstrings attached to the jeans. Tuck in your top or choose a cropped top, and the bow becomes your statement detail. The olive green shade is easy to combine with white, ecru or grey. Add a white tee with a twist and your look is completely on trend. 

Heading to the office? Tie a blouse around your waist over tailored trousers or a midi skirt, or wear a top with tie straps under your blazer. The knot does the work of a belt while feeling a little more relaxed. At the weekend, throw an oversized knit over your shoulders and loosely tie the sleeves in front of your chest. Done.

You can wear the knotted detail with what you already own, but it also makes you want something new. One knot and your favorite jeans, basic tee, or knit feels like a new outfit. Start with a top with a knotted detail or jeans with a tie, or choose a long-sleeve top in a bright color and tie it around your waist. Subtle or statement-making, both work. Small detail, big difference.