Differences Between Ruffles and Frills

Ruffles vs Frills

“Ruffles” and “frills” are words which are used in different contexts. If we discuss the English usage of the words, then they are used differently as compared to using the words in the context of fashion, particularly sewing.

Dictionary Meaning of “Ruffle”

Noun

• “Ruffle” refers to in sewing, a strip of closely pleated cloth or fabric used for a  decoration or trim.
• A ruffle refers to the ruff of a bird.
• It refers to a fray or ruckus.
• It also refers to slight disturbance or irregularity on a surface.
• Ruffle also means vexation or annoyance.

Verb

• When used as a verb, it refers to disturbing regularity or smoothness.
• To make a ruffle or gather a fabric in a ruffle.
• The birds erecting their feathers.
• To fluster or decompose.
• Flipping through pages.
• It also refers to shuffling something, like cards, or someone’s hair.

When used in the context of sewing, it refers to a strip of lace, fabric, or ribbon which has been tightly gathered on one end and is sewn to a garment or bedding for trimming. Ruffles in the fashion world are considered to be wider than frills. Ruffles are cut in many different ways. Some are cut from circular pieces of fabric while some are cut from rectangular fabric pieces.

Dictionary Meaning of “Frill”

Noun

• “Frill” refers to a pleated, gathered projection, or border of ribbon, fabric, lace, or curled paper used for decoration.
• A ruff of hair on the neck of a bird or animal.
• It refers to the wrinkling that takes place at the edge of a photographic film.
• A luxury.

Verb

• To make a frill.
• To add frill to something.

In dressmaking or sewing, it refers to the smaller pleats which are made with either fabric, ribbon, or lace and sewn on the edges of skirts or dresses or sometimes on the neck of dresses and blouses. They are considered to be more delicate and smaller in size than ruffles and used for decorating a dress or furnishing.

Summary:

• “Ruffle” refers to a strip of closely pleated cloth or fabric used for decoration or trim, ruff of a bird, a fray or ruckus, slight disturbance or irregularity on a surface, vexation or annoyance. “Frill” refers to a pleated, gathered projection or border of ribbon, fabric, lace, or curled paper used for decoration, hair on the neck of a bird or animal, wrinkling that takes place at the edge of a photographic film, and a luxury meaning something which is not necessary but enjoyed and appreciated when available.

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