How to Style a Bubble Skirt Like It’s 2024 (Not 2004)

The nostalgia-fueled trend is taking over.

Though Gen Z is hell-bent on reviving Y2K, those of us who were there remember it as a time of chaos. Celebrity breakups were all the rage and lower back tattoos were trending. The pandemonium extended to the fashion space, as well, with Disney Channel stars wearing dresses over pants and gauchos considered the height of fashion. Another such chaotic trend is the bubble skirt, a poofy, 1980s relic that was often styled with leggings and belly button-length necklaces. And, fortunately for Gen Z, they’re back.

This time around, however, we (society as a whole) have learned our lesson. Today’s iterations are primarily shoppable in easy-to-wear neutral shades for a more grown-up take on the early 2000s look. Instead of packing on kitschy accessories and bright colors, the bubble skirt’s modern application is much more streamlined. Wearers are styling the voluminous skirts with sophisticated basics and simplistic silhouettes, effectively balancing out the theatrical design.

Let me repeat that one more time, for the people in the back: balance. That's the key when styling such an over-the-top piece, striking the sweet spot between nostalgic and new, gauche and glamorous. And thankfully, the industry’s most stylish street style stars have already provided the blueprint for just that. Here’s how to style a bubble skirt like a true fashion girlie.

With A Blazer

The bubble skirt is architectural by design and, typically, such pieces wear well with other structured staples. That’s certainly the case with these puffy designs. Style the bubble skirt in your closet with boxy blazers, sleek trousers, or a puff-sleeve top to play up the dramatic shape.

Monochromatic

If you take one thing away from this story, let it be this: go for monochrome. Pairing your bubble skirt with similar colors will make the look feel polished and chic. Go for white-on-white or black-on-black for a cohesive sartorial story.

Color Contrast

Though keeping the base of your outfit simple and streamlined is a must, you can get playful with accessories. A pop of color or a shimmery metallic (or maybe even both!) can add an extra element of interest, without pushing your outfit into costume territory.

Modernized Y2K

Since the bubble skirt was an early 2000s staple, it’s only right that its modern-day styling pays homage to the original look. Lean into the over-the-top Y2K look with the most outrageous accessories of the era: chunky leather belts, platform sandals, and glitzy statement necklaces can all be layered with reckless abandon.

Over Pants

I know I disparaged dresses over pants earlier, but my critiques apply only to the trend’s early 2000s application. Today, quirky fashionistas have mastered the polarizing combo, making it feel utterly chic, an ethos that can be applied to your favorite bubble skirt, too. Layer a poofy mini over floor-grazing trousers, or hike up a midi style to turn it into a dress. Keep the color story and accessories simple, to not overwhelm your look.

Texture

Bubble skirts are about as playful as fashion trends come, and a textured version increases that vibe tenfold. Try a ruffled style yourself (or lace or 3D florals), paired with an androgynous top to even out the aggressive girly girl vibes. Once again, going for similar tones helps keep the outfit balanced.

With Over-the-Knee Boots

Bubble skirts are practically synonymous with femme details, like strands of pearls, big bows, and Mary Janes, essentially, the wardrobe staples of your average baby doll. As an antidote to this overdose of sweetness, try a pair of punky, over-the-knee boots in all-black leather. Paired with an ivory mini, the contrast is nothing short of divine.

Longline

In addition to their styling, bubble skirts have also evolved in construction in recent years. Today, styles are typically available in the classic mini, but if you’re lucky, you might also come across a posh midi length. These longer versions feel reminiscent of ’50s-era swing dresses, giving off an air of prim elegance.

As A Dress

With a striking silhouette like this, the bubble can stand alone. Let her take a starring role by hiking up the hemline and DIY-ing a little bubble dress moment. Midi cuts are preferred, for obvious reasons, but if you’d like to try it with a mini, play at your own risk.

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