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Feeling bubbly? The puffball skirt is officially back – here’s how to shop the SS24 trend
As seen on Cindy Kimberley, Sabrina Carpenter and Selena Gomez
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Just when we thought we’d seen every noughties look make its comeback as part of the current trending Y2K aesthetic (hello cargo pants, butterfly tops and peplums – yes, really), it seems we were forgetting about one crucial item from the decade: the bubble skirt. Despite its '80s fashion origins, it became a signature of the 2000s easily identifiable by its voluminous hem.
Sometimes referred to as a puffball or balloon and found on dresses and skirts in mini, midi and billowing maxi lengths, the comeback has been bubbling under the surface (geddit?) of fashion consciousness for a little while now. Miu Miu has championed the bubble skirt on the runways for the past three seasons, but it seems other designers – Jacquemus, 16Arlington and Celine, to name a few – have finally taken note for spring summer.
Celebrities including Sabrina Carpenter, Selena Gomez and Cindy Kimberley have taken note, as has TikTok and the high street. Yep, the noughties partywear staple is officially back and the ultimate fashion-girlie essential, albeit slightly reimagined for SS24.
Sure, you can still wear your puffball skirt to the club. But it’s also the perfect foundation to build your daytime looks. Think brunch with the girls, afternoons sunbathing in the park, and even chic workwear outfits if you opt for a longer hemline. When it comes to styling, fashion trainers and walking sandals will add a tough contrast to the flirty, feminine silhouette. Alternatively, lean into the balletcore overtones and pair with ballet flats, perhaps the must-have mesh designs we're seeing everywhere RN.
But don’t pack away this trend come autumn. In an effort to practice more sustainable shopping habits, we're looking to invest in trends that are guaranteed to stick around for more than just a season. Luckily, the bubble skirt meets said requirements. So, for autumnal style inspo, simply throw on a blazer, tights and your favourite kitten heels. Carrie Bradshaw would approve.
Without further ado, keep scrolling to shop the best bubble skirts as well as a few balloon hem dresses around right now.
Alexandria Dale is Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan & Women's Health UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
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