Splurge or Save: The Bubble Trend Is Popping Off
How the Bubble Hem Is Making a Comeback — And Whether You Should Join In
It’s funny how certain trends always seem to resurface, no matter how many times we hesitate at first. The most recent trend up for debate in my wardrobe is the bubble hem. It’s polarizing yet oddly magnetic. Quirky. And boy, is she BOLD. Her dramatic shape keeps pulling me in, like a Real Housewives catfight—I simply can't stop watching.
The bubble hem doesn’t hold back. It screams for attention and gets it. The controversial rundown:
It’s puffy.
That exaggerated shape? It’s A LOT.
It adds volume where you probably don’t want it.
Some may appreciate the fun, whimsical nature of the design, while others can’t help but feel swallowed up by the shape (Hi, that’s me). Even the tallest, slimmest figures can’t escape the overwhelming volume it creates, making it hard to embrace without feeling a tad self-conscious.
But despite all of this, I find the trend captivating. It’s unapologetic. It challenges the status quo. It’s not the most universally flattering trend, but I’m still so intrigued by its defiance. It draws you in, making you wonder if maybe — just maybe— it’s a risk worth taking.
A Trend That Just Won’t Quit
Yves Saint Laurent introduced the bubble hem in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until Christian Lacroix reinvented the trapeze line and bubble skirt in the late '80s that the trend truly took off. His designs featured voluminous petticoats and exaggerated, cone-like silhouettes. Forget sitting, it looked nearly impossible. Lacroix layered intricate beading, embroidery, and luxurious fabrics, pushing the limits of excess in every piece.
By 2004, the bubble hem was back in full force. Designers reimagined the bold silhouette with unexpected materials like leather, denim, and satin, adding a modern edge. It became about pushing boundaries with rich colors and unique textures, making each piece more striking than the last.
And yet here we are, 20 years later (again), and her comeback can’t quit. The bubble hem appears on skirts, dresses, tops, and even sleeves, offering a fresh and fun twist on the iconic silhouette from decades past.
Meet You in the Fitting Room
I haven’t tried any on yet, but the imagery alone makes me want to add everything to my cart immediately. What’s catching my attention the most? Either a matching set or an unexpected dress.
First up is Amy Smilovic of Tibi, serving my favorite new matching set. In spring-ready striped tech poplin, I’m gravitating hard towards this raglan tucked shirt paired with the cute bubble shorts. It’s giving me everything I didn’t know I needed this season. Which, let’s be honest, is exactly the vibe we should all be chasing. It might break the bank when purchased together, but the look strikes the perfect balance between playful and sophisticated — worth at least a try-on. We’ll convince your wallet later.
It debuted this winter and is still on my mind. Sea New York’s Belen Dress is captivating. I never would have thought to style it with trousers to accentuate the shape, but somehow, it works effortlessly. Or, you could let its high-low hem and tapered bottom shine on their own with a cute pair of Mary Janes this spring. It’s a showstopper. I can already picture wearing it all year round — and that’s reason enough to try it on.
Quick PSA: Cynthia Rowley has been stealing my heart for years. If you're ever in NYC, stop by her Bleecker Street store. She’s a master at mixing color, texture, and volume with a modern twist.
This look might be final sale, but pairing these pieces gives you double the volume — a purchase you won’t regret. For major arm pizzazz, try the Geneva Gingham blouse. For something more playful, go for the mini Geneva Cargo Shorts. Both are made from breathable cotton, perfect for trying on in-store to feel the magic. I’m already planning a summer picnic and know exactly what I’ll be wearing.
Last but not least, we’ve got the Hot Shot Bubble Set from Free People Movement. This set includes a longline tank with a bubble hem and coordinating mini shorts — a fresh, playful look for any occasion. I’m loving the neon coral, but it also comes in white and black for a more subtle option. I’m picturing it styled with a sports bra this summer for a laid-back weekend fit. At just $80, no try-on needed. Add it to your cart before it sells out.
Love It or Leave It
The bubble hem has made a comeback every 20 years, each time evolving but staying true to its bold essence. Before I splurge, I’m heading to the fitting room to explore my latest obsessions. But one thing’s for sure: as
said perfectly:“if a trendy item makes you gasp in adoration, then you participate. If you have to be convinced or you need to see it 100 more times to be sure: pass.”
Trying it on to see if it flatters is part of the fun — and if it doesn’t, let it go. Fashion is about feeling your best, even if it means passing on the latest trend.
Great roundup! I’m neutral on the bubble hem, but I can totally get behind the Tibi version.
I am a big fan of the bubble hem. While it has been said that if you participate in a trend the first time, you're not "in the right age bracket" when it returns decades later — I beg to differ (although skinny jeans have been happily exiled for good). I wore the bubble hem on a black Miu Miu cocktail dress in the early aughts, and last summer was thrilled to prance around (at a beauty party at Molly Sims' house, no less) in a white bubble skirt. Like you, I have been eyeing the Tibi set this season. The style works for me and my personality — age be damned.
At this rate, I will be rocking the style again when it returns in twenty+ years. Just in time for my 76th birthday.