There are some fictional worlds that stay with us long after we have finished reading. Not simply because of their characters or their stories, but because they feel so extraordinarily beautiful that we wish, just for a moment, we could step inside them.
The world of A Court of Thorns and Roses is one of those places.
There are glittering night skies above Velaris, sweeping gowns at the Court of Nightmares, flower-filled gardens in the Spring Court and the kind of extraordinary clothes that seem to exist somewhere between fashion and fantasy.
And while most of us are unlikely to receive an invitation to Starfall anytime soon, there is absolutely no reason we cannot borrow a little inspiration from the wardrobes of Prythian.
In fact, fashion seems particularly well suited to the idea right now.
Romantic lace, delicate embroidery, dramatic silhouettes, luxurious sequins and beautifully constructed gowns are all part of a wider conversation about fashion becoming more expressive, feminine and individual.
Then there is the new For Love & Lemons x A Court of Thorns and Roses collection, an official collaboration that launched on 22 October 2026 and brings the world of Sarah J. Maas directly into contemporary fashion.
But the most beautiful ACOTAR-inspired wardrobe goes beyond a single collection.
Australian designers L’IDÉE Woman and Scanlan Theodore, alongside the romantic creations of Zimmermann and celestial glamour of Annie’s Ibiza, offer some genuinely extraordinary interpretations of the aesthetic.
The secret is to embrace the fantasy without dressing as though you are attending a themed party.
Think less fairy costume, more impossibly stylish woman who might just have a house overlooking the Sidra.
For Love & Lemons: The ACOTAR Collection We Have Been Waiting For
Of all the fashion collaborations that could have emerged from the ACOTAR universe, For Love & Lemons feels like an exceptionally natural match.
The Los Angeles label has built its identity around unapologetic femininity, romantic silhouettes, vintage-inspired lace and beautiful embellishments.
Its designs have always possessed a slightly fantastical quality. Dresses are adorned with delicate florals, sheer fabrics create layers of intrigue, and even the simplest pieces often have a theatrical little detail.
Now, its official ACOTAR collection takes that romantic sensibility a step further.
Inspired by the characters, courts and memorable moments from the novels, the limited-edition range moves between the softness of the Spring Court, the darker glamour of the Night Court and the sparkling beauty of Starfall.
And some of the pieces are genuinely breathtaking.
The Starfall Gown: A Dress Made for Dancing Beneath the Stars
Perhaps the most enchanting design is the Starfall Gown.
This is the kind of dress that immediately makes you imagine an occasion worthy of wearing it.
Sheer tulle is scattered with intricate hand-beading, crystals, paillettes and celestial motifs, creating the impression of starlight falling across the body.
Crystal straps and removable flowing tulle shoulder drapes give the gown a beautiful sense of movement.
It is romantic and dramatic, but also surprisingly modern.
With barely-there silver heels, delicate diamond-style earrings and softly swept-up hair, it would make an extraordinary choice for a black-tie event.
Our styling suggestion? Resist the temptation to add too much jewellery. A dress this intricate deserves to be the centre of attention.
The Night Court Mini: Dark Romance at Its Best
For something a little moodier, the Night Court Mini Dress brings together black floral lace, hand-beaded embellishments, a high collar, plunging neckline and an open back.
It has the sort of gothic romance that feels perfectly aligned with the Night Court, without losing its contemporary fashion appeal.
There is something particularly appealing about black lace when it is styled with restraint.
Rather than adding elaborate accessories, pair the dress with sleek heels, an elegant clutch and one beautiful piece of jewellery.
For a more modern look, a sharply tailored blazer thrown over the shoulders would create a lovely contrast against the delicate fabric.
If you love this softer approach to lace, our guide to styling a lace-trim dress offers plenty of ideas for making romantic pieces feel sophisticated.
The Spring Court: Roses, Embroidery and Beautiful Femininity
The collection becomes considerably softer with pieces such as the Calanmai Midi Dress and Rose of the Manor Gown.
The Calanmai dress features blush chiffon, romantic embroidery and delicate floral detailing, while the Rose of the Manor design takes a more dramatic approach with embroidered vines and roses across sheer tulle.
Both capture that dreamy, garden-inspired femininity that feels so closely associated with the Spring Court.
The beauty of these designs is that they could work just as naturally at a beautiful summer garden party as they could in the pages of a fantasy novel.
Style them with champagne-toned sandals, small pearl earrings or a delicate gold necklace.
And perhaps most importantly, allow the dress to move.
Explore the full For Love & Lemons x ACOTAR collection here.
L’IDÉE Woman: The Gowns That Belong at Starfall
If For Love & Lemons captures the romance of ACOTAR, Australian label L’IDÉE Woman captures its grandeur.
Few designers make an entrance quite like L’IDÉE.
The brand’s signature pleating, fluid fabrics, rich colour palettes and dramatic silhouettes create gowns that feel almost architectural.
There is movement and texture, but also a wonderful sense of confidence.
These are dresses designed to be seen.
And for anyone who has ever imagined the extraordinary gowns worn at Starfall, L’IDÉE Woman might be one of the closest real-world equivalents.
The Experimental Gown: Modern Celestial Glamour
The Experimental Gown in Sparkle is a particularly beautiful example.
Its fluid, floor-length silhouette, plunging neckline and relaxed long sleeves create the kind of effortless drama that works beautifully for a formal evening.
The sequin fabrication catches the light, while the loose, sweeping shape keeps it from feeling overly structured.
It would be wonderful for a Starfall-inspired look, particularly with sculptural silver earrings and simple heels.
At AU$599, it also offers an interesting alternative to traditional evening gowns that can cost considerably more.
For something moodier, the brand’s Experimental Gown in Steel Sequin offers a darker interpretation of the same silhouette.
Think moonlight rather than sunshine.
The Reine Gown: A Dress Fit for a High Fae
There is something wonderfully regal about the Reine Gown in Imperial Shimmer.
The strapless neckline, gathered bodice and beautifully flowing skirt create a silhouette that is both commanding and feminine.
Its subtle bubble hem adds a sculptural quality, while the shimmering finish provides just enough fantasy.
This is the sort of gown we could imagine worn at an elaborate celebration in the Day Court, styled with gold jewellery and beautifully polished hair.
What makes the design particularly successful is that it doesn’t rely on excessive embellishment.
The shape itself creates the drama.
And sometimes, the most striking outfit in the room is the one that understands exactly when to stop.
Discover more designs in L’IDÉE Woman’s All That Sparkles collection.
Scanlan Theodore: The Sophisticated Side of the Night Court
Not every ACOTAR-inspired look needs to be covered in sequins or embroidered with flowers.
There is another side to the aesthetic, one that feels quieter, sharper and more powerful.
And that is where Scanlan Theodore comes in.
The Australian luxury label is known for sophisticated design, beautiful construction and silhouettes that feel elegant without becoming predictable.
Its approach to eveningwear is particularly well suited to a more mature interpretation of fantasy dressing.
Think Feyre as High Lady rather than Feyre attending her first ball.
Less overtly romantic, perhaps, but every bit as compelling.
The Silk Organza Poppy Gown: Romantic Without Being Precious
The Silk Organza Poppy Gown in Blue is an extraordinary piece of design.
A fitted strapless bodice sits beneath a relaxed layer of silk organza, while an accompanying wrap creates a beautiful cape-like silhouette.
The blue colour palette and delicate poppy detailing give the gown an almost ethereal quality.
It feels like something that could belong in a sophisticated interpretation of the Night Court, particularly for an elegant celebration beneath an open sky.
At AU$2,000, it is unquestionably a luxury purchase, but the combination of construction, fabric and versatility gives it the feel of a genuinely special occasion piece.
Style with delicate silver jewellery and a sleek hairstyle to allow the gown’s silhouette to shine.
The Tinsel Tulle Gown: Dark and Dramatic
For a more seductive interpretation, the Tinsel Tulle Gown in Black Mauve is particularly beautiful.
Layers of black and mauve tulle create depth and softness, while a structured bodice and slim floor-length silhouette provide a more defined shape.
The result feels mysterious without being overly theatrical.
There is an undeniable Night Court energy here.
It is also a wonderful example of how fabric can create visual interest without relying on a complicated design.
The contrast between sheer layers, soft colour and structured construction is what makes the gown so striking.
Our choice would be to style it with simple black heels and one statement ring.
The Lilac Sequin Dress: A Softer Kind of Magic
For those who prefer their fantasy fashion a little more understated, Scanlan Theodore’s Sequin Gather Neck Dress in Lilac offers a beautiful alternative.
The high neckline and narrow silhouette feel wonderfully refined, while the sequins bring just enough shimmer.
Rather than trying to look like something borrowed from a fantasy world, this is the dress for someone who simply wants to look extraordinary.
And perhaps that is the most appealing interpretation of the entire trend.
Zimmermann: Spring Court Romance at Its Most Luxurious
If there is one luxury designer that seems to understand the appeal of whimsical, romantic fashion, it is Zimmermann.
The Australian label has long celebrated feminine silhouettes, intricate lace, beautiful prints and an almost theatrical appreciation for detail.
Its dresses frequently feature sweeping skirts, delicate embroidery, dramatic sleeves and the sort of floral patterns that feel as though they belong in a beautifully illustrated storybook.
There is an obvious connection to the Spring Court, but also something slightly more interesting.
Zimmermann understands that romantic dressing can be strong.
A beautiful floral gown doesn’t need to be delicate in personality. It can be expressive, confident and wonderfully commanding.
The Valiant Panelled Wrap Dress in Spliced Floral is a particularly lovely example.
Crafted in silk, with fluted sleeves, lace detailing and a flowing skirt, it combines vintage romance with the sort of effortless glamour that Zimmermann does so well.
Imagine it styled with antique-inspired jewellery, softly waved hair and elegant leather sandals.
Or take a different approach with one of the label’s lace dresses in ivory, lilac or black.
An ivory lace gown feels wonderfully suited to the Spring Court, while a black lace mini could just as easily belong in the Night Court.
For a more unexpected interpretation, floral dresses in deeper burgundy, plum and rich green offer a beautiful nod to the Autumn Court.
Explore Zimmermann’s designer dress collection.
Annie’s Ibiza: For the Woman Who Belongs Beneath the Stars
There is romantic fashion, and then there is fashion that feels almost otherworldly.
Annie’s Ibiza belongs firmly in the second category.
Known for its extraordinary eveningwear, intricate embellishments and vintage-inspired glamour, the London-based label creates designs that feel playful, opulent and unapologetically beautiful.
For ACOTAR inspiration, it is difficult to look past its celestial pieces.
The Stella Draped Mini Dress is a particularly striking example.
Crafted in deep sapphire velvet, with hand-embellished star motifs, a corseted bodice and sculptural draping, it is the sort of dress that immediately brings the night sky to mind.
There is something wonderfully glamorous about the combination of dark velvet and sparkling celestial details.
Unlike a more traditional princess-inspired gown, the mini silhouette feels modern, confident and a little mischievous.
Wear it with sheer tights, pointed heels and minimal jewellery.
The dress itself provides more than enough magic.
This is one for the woman who doesn’t simply attend Starfall.
She arrives fashionably late.
How to Dress for Your Favourite ACOTAR Court
Of course, part of the appeal of ACOTAR-inspired fashion is that every court offers a different aesthetic.
And you don’t need an actual ball gown to enjoy the idea.
The most wearable approach is to borrow the colours, fabrics and silhouettes of your favourite court and interpret them through your own personal style.
The Night Court: Midnight Blue, Black Lace and Celestial Sparkle
The Night Court wardrobe is all about dramatic elegance.
Think midnight-blue silk, black lace, silver embellishments, velvet and beautiful accessories that catch the light.
A long black lace dress with elegant heels creates an instant evening look, while a navy satin skirt with a fitted black top offers something much more relaxed.
A small celestial-inspired pendant or sculptural silver earrings can introduce the fantasy element without making it feel obvious.
The key is choosing one dramatic feature and allowing everything else to support it.
The Spring Court: Blush Pink, Floral Embroidery and Soft Romance
For the Spring Court, embrace softness and movement.
Blush pink, pale green, ivory, champagne and beautifully detailed floral prints create the foundation.
A romantic Zimmermann dress, delicate gold jewellery and soft leather sandals would make a wonderful daytime interpretation.
For evening, choose embroidered tulle or a beautifully cut chiffon gown.
And don’t underestimate the appeal of a simple floral skirt.
Our guide to the skirt styles defining the season explores how flowing silhouettes can create beautiful outfits without requiring an entirely new wardrobe.
The Day Court: Gold, Liquid Fabrics and Sculptural Shapes
The Day Court calls for something luminous.
Champagne silk, burnished gold, warm yellow and fluid metallic fabrics are particularly appropriate.
Rather than choosing a heavily embellished dress, try something sleek and beautifully draped.
A gold-toned L’IDÉE gown with simple earrings and elegant heels would capture the mood perfectly.
The appeal is in the richness of the fabric and the confidence of the silhouette.
The Autumn Court: Wine, Bronze and Dark Florals
Autumn Court dressing offers a more sensual interpretation of romantic fashion.
Deep burgundy, copper, bronze, rich chocolate and dark botanical prints create a wonderfully sophisticated palette.
Think velvet dresses, dramatic floral gowns, elegant lace blouses and jewellery with a slightly antique finish.
A flowing burgundy dress paired with gold earrings and chocolate leather heels would be beautiful for dinner.
For a more relaxed interpretation, combine a satin midi skirt with a fitted knit and elegant boots.
It’s romantic, but with a distinctly sharper edge.
The Valkyries: Strength, Silver and Unexpected Femininity
Perhaps the most interesting aesthetic belongs to the Valkyries.
This is where romantic dressing meets structure.
Think silver sequins, dramatic shoulders, clean tailoring, leather and dresses that balance femininity with a stronger silhouette.
A shimmering mini dress beneath a beautifully cut blazer would be a wonderful starting point.
So would a sleek silver skirt with a structured top.
The important detail is contrast.
Something soft against something strong. A delicate fabric against a sharp silhouette.
It’s also a useful reminder that great style rarely comes from following a single aesthetic too precisely.
As we explored in why being too perfect is killing your personal style, the most interesting outfits often have something unexpected about them.
How to Make Fantasy-Inspired Fashion Look Expensive, Not Like a Costume
There is a delicate balance between embracing a beautiful fashion inspiration and taking the concept too literally.
The difference usually comes down to styling.
A heavily embroidered gown, for example, may need nothing more than simple heels and elegant earrings. Adding a dramatic headpiece, elaborate jewellery and overly theatrical hair can quickly make an otherwise beautiful look feel like fancy dress.
The same applies to colour.
A rich midnight-blue gown with silver accessories already captures the essence of the Night Court. It doesn’t need a collection of celestial motifs to explain the reference.
Fabric quality is equally important.
Beautiful silk, velvet, fine lace and carefully constructed pleating tend to create a more luxurious impression than excessive decorative detailing.
And then there is fit.
A gown should move beautifully when you walk, sit comfortably and feel balanced on your frame.
If you are investing in a special piece, our guide to finding your best silhouette is a useful place to begin.
Finally, don’t be afraid to mix romantic and contemporary pieces.
A lace dress with modern leather heels. A sequin skirt with a perfectly cut blazer. A floral gown with understated jewellery.
Sometimes all it takes is one unexpected accessory to turn a beautiful dress into a genuinely memorable outfit.
For more ideas, read our edit of the pieces that instantly make an outfit feel more fashion-forward.
The Most Beautiful ACOTAR-Inspired Pieces on Our Wishlist
For those ready to embrace a little fantasy in their wardrobe, these are the designs we would begin with.
- For the ultimate Starfall moment: For Love & Lemons Starfall Gown, with celestial embellishment and flowing tulle.
- For dark Night Court glamour: For Love & Lemons Night Court Mini Dress, a beautiful statement in black lace and hand-beading.
- For modern High Fae elegance: L’IDÉE Woman Experimental Gown in Sparkle, a fluid sequin gown that catches the light.
- For a truly luxurious occasion: Scanlan Theodore Silk Organza Poppy Gown, with its beautiful cape-like silhouette.
- For ethereal romance: Scanlan Theodore Tinsel Tulle Gown, a sophisticated combination of black and mauve.
- For Spring Court femininity: Zimmermann Valiant Panelled Wrap Dress, with silk, lace and romantic floral detail.
- For celestial party dressing: Annie’s Ibiza Stella Draped Mini Dress, featuring sapphire velvet and sparkling stars.
Product availability, sizing and pricing may change. Check individual retailers for current details and currency.
A Little Magic Belongs in Every Wardrobe
Perhaps the most appealing thing about ACOTAR-inspired fashion is that it gives us permission to embrace clothes that feel a little extraordinary.
For years, the fashion conversation has been dominated by simplicity, understated luxury and the idea that true sophistication should never draw too much attention.
And while there will always be a place for beautifully cut basics and effortless everyday dressing, there is something refreshing about wanting to wear a dress simply because it makes you feel wonderful.
Something covered in stars.
Something embroidered with roses.
Something that moves beautifully when you walk into a room.
The most successful fantasy-inspired fashion isn’t about pretending to be someone else.
It’s about borrowing a little of the beauty, confidence and possibility that makes these imaginary worlds so compelling.
Whether that means investing in a breathtaking gown, adding a romantic lace piece to your wardrobe or simply choosing a dress in the most beautiful shade of midnight blue, the opportunity to bring a little magic into everyday life is rather lovely.
After all, who says the stars should have all the sparkle?
What to Read Next on ELE Styled
How to Style a Lace-Trim Dress
Beautiful ways to make one of fashion’s most romantic pieces feel effortlessly modern.
Why Being Too Perfect Is Killing Your Personal Style
Why embracing personality and a little imperfection can make your wardrobe far more interesting.
The Pieces That Instantly Make an Outfit Feel More Fashion-Forward
How to introduce beautiful shapes, interesting textures and statement accessories into everyday dressing.
How to Find Your Best Silhouette
A practical guide to finding the shapes that make you look and feel your best.
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