Puff Piece: The Return of Bubble Hems 🫧

Don’t burst this spring trend bubble.

May 24, 2025

Blame Summer House. Blame that bottomless first warm day that made you panic-buy linen. Whatever the reason, spring style is bubbling up — and bubble hems are leading the charge.

Pinterest searches for “bubble skirts” are up 185%, and Google’s not far behind at 155%, according to Molly Rooyakkers, the data analyst behind Style Analytics. What started as a niche comeback in 2024 has officially exploded in 2025, inflating beyond minis into bubble-hem tops, two-piece sets, even shorts.

"The most common bubble skirt brands people are currently searching for worldwide are Aritzia and Zara, which have seen over 100 percent growth in searches for their respective bubble skirts," Rooyakkers says. The data analyst believes that the mass-market accessibility has helped the recent bubble skirts eclipse earlier versions and maintain their status as a mainstream trend. "Interestingly, historical data shows that this trend has already exceeded the number of people searching for it back in 2012, the last time the bubble skirt was popular," Rooyakkers adds.

Designers are going all in this season: think sculptural poufs at Alaïa, flouncy prom-core gowns at Chloé, and floaty, cocktail-coded looks from Stella McCartney and Emilia Wickstead. But this isn’t just a runway moment. Budget-friendly brands like Aritzia and J. Crew are blowing up the trend, too. From New York brunch lines to Paris crosswalks, bubble skirts are everywhere.

Celebs have caught on. Zoe Saldaña floated down the Oscars red carpet in Saint Laurent, and Hailey Bieber’s been spotted in balloon minis on date night. The best part? They're weirdly easy to wear. Pair one with a tank and sneakers or a cropped jacket and flats. Instant upgrade, no overthinking required.

If your closet just got spring-cleaned, here’s your sign to puff it back up.

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‍Anthropologie Mare Mare Bubble-Hem Mini Dress

This puffed-up mini brings the drama with a sculpted bubble hem and bold color pop.

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‍‍‍Sea Paulina Polka Dot Bubble Coverup Dress

Poolside, but make it playful — this cotton midi brings retro charm with a polka-dot print, puffed hem, and secret pockets.

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‍‍Reformation Brynn Skirt

With a cinched waist and flouncy full skirt, this eco-friendly cotton cutie is airy, effortless and ready to twirl.

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‍‍We The Free Echo Denim Bubble Shorts

These ballooned denim cuties bring a retro twist to your warm-weather uniform — high-waisted, ultra-comfy and built for bike rides, brunch and beyond.

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