This Weird and Wonderful Summer Micro-Trend Is Now an Unexpected Mainstay in My Wardrobe
All hail the bubble hem skirt!
My girlfriend will roll her eyes as I say this, but despite being a fashion editor, I really don’t buy that many clothes—and no, this isn’t the part where I smugly reveal I just get them all for free. Instead, with a growing love for travelling (and living out of a suitcase) and a focus on wearing mainly natural fibre fabrics, very few pieces actually make it into my ever-shrinking wardrobe. Yet this fashion-forward find ticked every single box. Allow me to reintroduce you to the bubble hem skirt.
Yes, we’ve seen this silhouette before—from its heyday in the ’80s to its revival over the past few seasons. The bubble, balloon or puffball skirt isn’t exactly new. But for summer 2025, it’s been given a decidedly more refined twist.
Patou SS26 runway
On the Spring/Summer runways, it popped up at Patou in micro-mini form, took on a striking satin finish at Simone Rocha, and was reimagined with bohemian ease at Chloé. The bubble hem skirt has transcended its status as a fleeting fashion fad to become a bona fide summer staple. One that, I can personally attest, adds instant interest to any outfit without looking like you’ve tried too hard.
Take a waistcoat, for instance—the current top du jour. Add a bubble hem skirt and any hint of boardroom stiffness is instantly erased. Or, pair it with a denim top (bonus points for an asymmetric cut) and you’ve got a look that appears to have taken far longer than five minutes to throw together. Even classics—a tank top, an oversized shirt or a sharp blazer—pair effortlessly. While the puffball skirt’s versatility might not be obvious at first glance, it quickly proves itself.
Simone Rocha SS26 runway
All of which is to say: if you’re after a wardrobe addition that will elevate what you already own, can be styled for a whole range of occasions, and nudges you just enough out of your comfort zone, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything better. After all, very few fashion finds manage to cross the line from micro-trend to modern staple.
Shop The Best Bubble Hem Skirts
This 100% cotton Next skirt is the exact one I brought into my own wardrobe—and I haven't looked back.
Home to all number of cool girl fashion staples, it's no surprise that Ganni has embraced bubble hem skirts.
Alaïa designed its summer piece to "move like kinetic sculptures", so expect plenty of movement from this black puffball skirt.
After a more attention-grabbing style? This vibrant yellow mini will do just the trick.
For a more planet-friendly choice, consider this Albaray option, crafted from 100% organic cotton and with carbon-neutral shipping.
You'll always find refined yet fashion-forward pieces at Rejina Pyo.
Yes, even the classic denim mini skirt has been given a bubble hem twist.
This cargo style will add a tougher edge to the bubble hem design.
For a more evening-ready take, take a look at this high-shine cream find.
Any lovers of volume are sure to be tempted by this Aje find. Pare it back with a simple striped tee to balance out proportions.
Even JW Anderson has leant into the look with what they call a 'balloon' mini skirt.
All-black outfit fans can also rejoice in the trend.
