The Bubble is Back

By this point, most of us have recognized that the fashion of the 90s and early 2000s is making its way to the runways and streets around the world. Despite the pleas heard across the internet to "Leave it in the past!", there is no stopping the fashion world from plowing ahead. During my daily "research" scroll through Instagram and TikTok, I have noticed one specific trend - it's not as in your face as the chrome bags and shoes or the maxi denim skirts and low slung cargo pants, but it is slowly working its way into the wardrobe of our favorite influencers. It's even made its way to the pages of top Depop sellers. The latest trend to make its comeback? Bubble skirts. My middle school self doesn't know whether to be excited or horrified. The newer takes on this trend focus less on the Limited Too jersey/eyelet combo, and give it a more grown-up twist; Taffetas, denims, tweeds, and even sequins elevate this once juvenile trend and give it a high fashion face lift. Keep scrolling below to see the 2020 take on this early-aughts classic.

Daytime Wear

In our middle school days, casual bubble skirts were made in bright jersey fabrics and typically had ruched, elastic waistbands. Designers are taking the silhouette but leaving the cheap Forever 21 construction behind. With the denim skirt craze everywhere, it was no surprise to see this silhouette in the popular fabric. Lightweight suiting and cottons were also shown, making this a wearable option - dress it up with a belt and heels for the office, or down with sock and loafers for an elevated every-day look. Finally, with the return of 90s knits, it was only a matter of time until we saw skirts in metallic weaves. This lightweight knit mixed with a knee high boot and matching bag will make you the star of the latest "What I Saw People Wearing in New York" TikTok. Not looking to shell out designer prices for this possible fleeting fad? Plenty of Depop and Etsy sellers have truly authentic vintage pieces listed on their pages.

Party Dresses

What would a runway be without some shimmer and sparkle? The catwalks had bubble skirts in everything from velvet to metallic boucle to sequins. A lot of designers also leaned into the drop waist silhouette that has been popular and turned the bubble skirt into a bubble dress. Designers like Simone Rocha and Paco Rabanne put their signature spin on the style with draping, ruffles, and beaded trims. Instead of wearing a slip dress or sequin mini skirt on your next night out, why not try a tiny lamé bubble skirt and sky high platform heels?