Sometimes you look back on the fashion of your youth and think, I can’t believe I ever wore that. Well, fast forward to today, and those pieces you swore you’d never pick up again – bootcut jeans, bag charms, and, perhaps most surprisingly, bubble hem pieces – are back.

For those who need a refresher, bubble skirts and dresses are voluminous styles gathered at the hem to create a puffed-out shape. You probably last wore one to your leavers’ prom. Their revival has been bubbling (sorry) away for a while, but it’s been having a moment of late, as seen on the likes of Rita Ora, Olivia Dean and Sabrina Carpenter. 

Miuccia Prada was the first to give this once-forgotten trend a fresh spin at the Miu Miu autumn/winter 2024 catwalk. Floral print bubble skirts were paired with cropped jackets and sleek sunglasses for a city-ready vibe. Over at Bally, Simone Bellotti took a similar street-style approach, styling puffball minis under crisp blue shirts with shiny black Mary Jane flats.

Unlike the oversized neon shapes of the 80s, today’s designers are reinterpreting bubble hems with a more contemporary approach. Gone are the bold hues and exaggerated volume; instead, we’re seeing softer, more neutral tones like warm caramels, soft beiges and classic black. The key is to style these balloon-like shapes in ways that feel streamlined and wearable.

Pair them with classic crew-neck cardigans, tailored shirts and blazers, and opt for more pared-back fabrics – think heavier materials over satin or high-shine finishes. This keeps the look feeling fresh while avoiding that overly nostalgic Sixteen Candles vibe.

If you’re looking for some outfit inspiration, keep scrolling for our favourite ways to wear the bubble hem – whether you’re aiming for a relaxed, casual look or something more office-ready.

Add a blazer  

Bubble skirts might be statement-making, but they’re surprisingly versatile. The easiest way to wear one now for the transitional season is with a blazer and boots. The contrast of sharp tailoring and voluminous skirts keeps the look balanced and proportional, making it an effortless choice for everything from office meetings to nights out. Knee-high leather boots add polish, while an oversized blazer makes it feel nonchalant rather than overly prim.

For inspiration, check out Cherifa Akili pictured above at Paris Fashion Week. She opted for an Arket pinstriped cropped blazer, a Ganni white balloon dress, a Hermès Kelly belt, a Fendi bag and Khaite black leather boots. Her mix of sharp, structured pieces with the playful bubble skirt showed just how chic and edgy this style can be.

Play with contrasts  

For a softer take, longer bubble skirts have a more romantic feel. Paired with ballet flats or Mary Janes, they lean into a ladylike aesthetic, but there’s also room to play with contrasts. 

Some of the best street style looks have taken the opposite approach, toughening up the silhouette with a structured white Oxford shirt and a tie. To keep it fresh, go for a quirky tie print. The key? Mixing those masculine touches keeps the outfit from feeling too sweet and gives it that cool, street-style edge.

Layer over trousers 

Next time you’re wondering how to take your jeans up a notch, pair with a bubble hem skirt or dress. Layering is another way to make your look feel fresh. The return of skirts and dresses over trousers is bringing back a distinctly Y2k styling trick. Pair a poofy bubble-hem dress or mini skirt over floor-length wide-leg trousers or dark denim jeans to give off a cool silhouette. 

Take inspiration from Min Chung (above), who teamed a slate grey Amomento dress with matching trousers. Keep your colour palette and accessories simple to avoid overcomplicating the look – sometimes less is more.

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands