Fashion Clothing I Promise, This Small Switch Makes Simple Outfits Infinitely Cuter From swimsuits to dresses, I can't get enough of this detail. By Samantha Sutton Samantha Sutton Instagram Samantha has been working in media for over a decade and joined InStyle's team as the Senior Fashion Editor in 2019. She previously held roles at Coveteur, POPSUGAR, Refinery29, and Men's Fitness, covering both fashion and celebrity/entertainment. In her spare time, she enjoys performing sketch comedy with her friends, watching Love Island, and endlessly scrolling through social media. She is originally from Staten Island, but currently resides in Brooklyn (and sometimes, Schenectady!) with her fiancé J.T., their dog Poppy, and way too many clothes. Samantha graduated with a B.A. in journalism from Rider University. InStyle's editorial guidelines Published on July 30, 2020 Pin Share Tweet Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Photo: HGL/GC Images I'll be the first to admit that, aside from some T-shirts and bike shorts, most of the clothes I bought in 2020 now sit in my closet unused. Staying home during the pandemic has truly convinced me that comfort comes first, and when I do venture outside, I end up wearing the same old outfits: long blanket dresses or a tank top and shorts, complete with a pair of Birkenstocks. Still, there's one small switch I've made recently that has allowed me to find the happy medium, achieving no-fuss and fashion-forward all at the same time. Shoulder tie straps — or TinyTies, as I like to call them — have added a little something extra to even my most basic looks. Choosing items with this small detail makes me feel like I've put in a little more effort, even if it's still a throw-on-and-go (or lounge around) dress, top, or swimsuit. Babydoll Shoes Are the Micro Fashion Trend We'll Be Wearing From Now Until 2021 Plenty of bloggers have made a case for TinyTies, too, proving they look great on everyone, work for any occasion, and can be worn in any type of weather. Get a dose of outfit inspiration, ahead, before shopping the trend for yourself. On a Dress In my opinion, no summer wardrobe is complete without a decent selection of maxi and mini dresses. While patterns and colors always amp up these easy pieces, TinyTies have the same eye-catching effect. Shop Similar: Solid & Striped Tie-Shoulder Gingham Seersucker Dress ($328; matchesfashion.com) On a Shirt There's a time and place for closet staples, but for those who want a 'wow' moment, this detail will surely do the trick. Shop Similar: Madewell Tie-Shoulder Tank Top ($20; madewell.com) The Super Strappy Kind The width and length of these shoulder ties vary: some are more bow-like, while others are thin and strappy. The latter gives a plain mini dress a sexy, '90s vibe. Shop Similar: Reformation Othello Dress ($178; thereformation.com) The Bow Detail While not exactly a TinyTie, these ribbons are the same idea. The addition gives puff-sleeve designs with a sweet, cottagecore twist. Shop Similar: LoveShackFancy Jessie Dress ($395; shopbop.com) On a Bathing Suit Not only will they make your one-piece or bikini feel more whimsical, a tighter knot has a cleavage-boosting effect. Shop It: Summersalt The Tie Oasis ($95; summersalt.com) Carrot-Leg Jeans Are the Latest Denim Trend to Add Your Closet For a Special Occasion Sure, there aren't a ton of formal events happening right now, but a sleek black dress with shoulder ties feels somewhat fancy, especially if paired with stilettos. Shop Similar: Sister Jane Sugar Blossom Tiered Cami Dress ($116; shopbop.com) Layered in Cooler Weather Once summer is over, there's no need to pack these dresses and shirts away. When things cool down, simply layer them over button-downs and turtlenecks. Shop Similar: English Factory Plaid Tie Shoulder Top ($50; nordstrom.com) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit