Articles

8 Ways to Style Bubble Skirts and Dresses Right Now

Add Volume (and Style) With These Bubble Skirt Outfit Ideas

Image credits: walke n closet

Bubble hems are back—and they’re bringing the drama. This voluminous, playful silhouette is making a major splash this summer, showing up in everything from casual everyday looks to elevated evening outfits. Whether you’re dressing for a coffee date, a meeting, or a night out, there’s a bubble skirt or dress out there for you.

We use real-time, data-backed insights to highlight the best bubble styles to shop right now—plus, we’ve got all the outfit inspo and styling tips you need to pull them off with ease. Scroll on to see our favorite fun and foolproof ways to wear the bubble hem trend and make it your own.

What Is a Bubble Hem Skirt or Dress?

A bubble hem skirt or dress features a voluminous, rounded silhouette that billows out like a cloud. This playful shape is typically created by tucking or gathering the hem back under and securing it with elastic, a fitted lining, or strategic stitching. Some versions use structured fabrics, pleating, or layered materials to achieve the puffed effect.

Bubble hems come in a wide range of styles, from bold, short satin minis in candy colors to ladylike midis and maxis made from cotton poplin, taffeta, or even wool. A short bubble dress paired with heels gives off a youthful, flirty vibe, while a pastel poofy skirt can look soft and elegant at a garden party. For a modern twist, try a gray bubble skirt in a heavier fabric styled with chunky, mid-heeled boots—it adds just the right amount of edge.

Whether you opt for a cinched-waist silhouette or something more oversized and dramatic, bubble hems are designed to stand out—and they’re guaranteed to make a statement.

The New Bubble Skirt Trend

While the bubble hem may feel fresh and modern, this voluminous silhouette has deep roots in fashion history. The look is widely credited to Pierre Cardin, who introduced the first bubble skirt in 1954. A few years later, Yves Saint Laurent designed a version during his time at Christian Dior in 1959. The trend made a dramatic return in the 1980s, thanks to style icons like Christian Lacroix, Vivienne Westwood, and Saint Laurent himself.

Fast forward to the early 2000s, and bubble hems popped up again—this time with a playful Y2K twist. Now, the style is back once more, making waves on runways, red carpets, and sidewalks alike. From dramatic high-fashion interpretations to wearable everyday looks, today’s bubble skirts and dresses feel bold, fun, and right on trend.

How to Style a Balloon Skirt or Dress

It might seem tricky at first, but the bubble hem is more wearable than you’d think. No matter your size, age, or personal style, there’s a way to make this statement silhouette work for you. 

Here are a few styling tips to help you wear it with confidence:

  • Balance the volume
    Pair a bubble skirt or dress with a fitted top, blouse, or bodysuit to create contrast and highlight your shape.
  • Tuck it in
    Whether you’re wearing a lightweight sweater or a crisp button-down, tucking it in will define your waist and keep your silhouette feeling intentional, not overwhelming.
  • Keep accessories bold but simple
    Let the skirt be the star. Opt for sleek earrings, a structured bag, or a statement shoe to elevate your look without competing with the silhouette.
  • Play with proportion
    Knee-high leather boots add edge and structure, while strappy sandals or stilettos bring in a feminine touch. Sneakers can dress the look down for a laid-back vibe, just let the mood and length of the skirt guide you.
  • Adjust the drama
    Go for a mini bubble skirt if you’re feeling sassy, or opt for midi and maxi lengths paired with long sleeves or a tailored jacket for something more upscale and chic.

Not sure how to pull it off? These outfits prove bubble hems are easier to wear (and way more versatile) than you’d think.

All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.

May 28, 2025

Written By:Meredith Rimmer

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

FacebookPinterest logoTwitter logoEmail icon

01

Preppy Aesthetic—Balloon Skirt + Button-Down + Mary Janes

Image credits: @haleyvbrown

@haleyvbrown

Structured but not too serious, a balloon skirt is the perfect base for a preppy outfit with a playful twist. For a fresh take on the look (think laid-back East Coast meets classic prep) pair a knee-length or mini bubble skirt with a crisp button-down and Mary Jane flats. Try a skirt from Mango, a tailored shirt from J.Crew, and Rothy’s espadrille-style Mary Janes for a stylish mix of volume, polish, and comfort. Be sure to add our Mango, J.Crew, and Rothy's coupon codes at checkout for the best deal on a new style to add a bit of whimsy to your closet.

To define your waist, tuck in your shirt for a clean, cinched silhouette, or leave it untucked for a more relaxed, off-duty feel. Just steer clear of overly slouchy tops, the key is to keep your upper half more streamlined than the skirt.

This look is ideal for spring brunches, casual daytime events, or even low-key work meetings. Add tights and a structured jacket for a transitional fall outfit, and finish the ensemble with a mini handbag and a pair of trending flats for extra prep-school polish. (Image credit: @haleyvbrown)

Mango Mini Balloon Skirt

mango

Mango Mini Balloon Skirt

$70

Buy Now

02

Off-Duty Casual—Bubble Maxi + Oversized Tee + Flip-Flop Sandals

Image credits: @vogueandcoffee

@vogueandcoffee

For an outfit that’s equal parts effortless and on-trend, style a bubble maxi skirt with an oversized tee and minimalist sandals. It’s the kind of look that says “model off duty” in the best way. Try a voluminous maxi from Banana Republic paired with a slouchy graphic or plain T-shirt from Anthropologie. Complete the vibe with slim, walkable flip-flop sandals like Archies.

To add a little shape, knot your tee at the waist or do a casual front tuck. This relaxed combo is perfect for spring and summer days spent running errands, traveling, or just hanging out. Once fall rolls around, swap the sandals for sneakers and layer on a cozy pullover or a slouchy cardigan.

Keep the accessories simple—small hoops, a delicate chain, or a chic watch are all you need to polish things off without overdoing it.

P.S. Want to try the look for less? Use our Anthropologie and Banana Republic promo codes to save on the staple pieces. (Image credit: @vogueandcoffee) 

03

Office-Ready—Long Balloon Skirt + Tailored Vest + Capped-Toe Shoes

Image credits: @sibongiseni_ndlovu

@sibongiseni_ndlovu

Yes, you can wear a balloon skirt to the office—especially if you’re in a creative field or fashion-forward environment. The key is keeping the silhouette structured and the styling refined. Start with a midi- or ankle-length bubble skirt from Macy’s (and don’t forget to use our Macy’s promo code to save on your pick). Pair it with a sleek, tailored vest from Target for a modern, work-appropriate twist. Pro tip: you can also use our Target promo code for a deal on this staple.

To ground the look, go for substantial flats or capped-toe heels—we love the polished pairs from Tuckernuck for finishing touches that feel elevated yet office-friendly. This Chanel-esque pair is an even bigger dupe when you pair with a Tuckenuck promo code. Stick to a neutral palette (think navy, black, or beige) for a more professional vibe, and avoid overly voluminous skirts; a slightly narrower cut has a classier feel. Want to highlight your waist? Add a leather belt and keep your top fitted to balance out the shape below. (Image credit: @sibongiseni_ndlovu)

04

Parisian Chic—Balloon Skirt + Blazer + Loafers

Image credits: @zeentel

@zeentel

When you’re in the mood to channel easy European elegance, a bubble skirt outfit with Parisian flair is a stylish way to switch things up. Start with a bubble hem mini or knee-length skort from Lulus—use our Lulus promo code to save while curating your continental-inspired closet. Top it with a cropped or tailored blazer from Ann Taylor (bonus: we’ve got an Ann Taylor discount code for that, too) for a polished, playful silhouette.

Complete the look with chunky loafers from VIVAIA (on discount with a VIVAIA promo code), styled with sheer socks or tights for a distinctly Parisian twist. Minimalist gold jewelry, like dainty hoops or a sleek chain necklace, adds just the right amount of shine. This ensemble is picture-perfect for coffee dates, window shopping, or casual city strolls with friends. (Image credit: @zeentel)

05

Edgy Evening Style—Bubble Dress + Leather Jacket + Boots

Image credits: @lukesova.vera

@lukesova.vera

When the sun goes down, it’s the perfect time to lean into a bold, unforgettable look. For a cool evening outfit, go monochrome: layer a black bubble dress from Madewell with a sleek black leather jacket from Quince. Finish the look with sturdy boots you can score for less using our Bloomingdale’s promo code

To keep things elevated rather than overly casual, opt for a structured leather jacket instead of an oversized one. Then, depending on the mood, choose combat boots for edge or heeled ankle boots for a dressier vibe. This look is a go-to for concerts, casual date nights, or nights out in cooler weather. Want to take it up a notch? Add a bold red lip or a swipe of dramatic eyeliner to seal the deal. (Image credit: @lukesova.vera)

06

Daytime Look—Bubble Hem Skirt + Striped Sweater + Metallic Slingbacks

Image credits: @reine_vanessa18

@reine_vanessa18

Looking to refresh your everyday wardrobe? A bubble hem skirt is the perfect place to start, especially when paired with soft stripes and a little shine. Style a short or knee-length skirt from Reformation (psst—our Reformation coupon code makes it even more fun to shop) with a striped cardigan from Quince for a polished, nautical-inspired outfit that feels chic but effortless.

Add metallic slingback flats from Dolce Vita to elevate the look, or swap them for metallic sneakers if you’re going for a more laid-back vibe. Stick with neutral or pastel stripes for versatility, and finish things off with a structured tote for just the right amount of function and style. This outfit works well for lunch dates, casual meetings, or family get-togethers where you want to look put-together without trying too hard. (Image credit: @reine_vanessa18) 

07

Girls' Night Glam—Bubble Mini Dress + Bold Accessories

Image credits: @nmabekeh

@nmabekeh

Cocktails, anyone? For your next girls' night out, go full glam in a bubble mini dress that brings the drama. Look for one in a luxe fabric like satin, silk, or velvet, and snag a deal with our Free People promo code while you're at it. The more volume, the better—this is your moment to turn heads.

Accessorize boldly: think oversized rings, a sparkly clutch from Anthropologie, and strappy red heels from Steve Madden for a showstopping finish. Statement earrings seal the deal, giving your outfit a festive, fashion-forward edge that's perfect for bachelorette parties, birthday dinners, or any night you want to shine. Choose a versatile fabric and you can wear this look year-round and prove that glam doesn’t have to be a one-time thing. (Image credit: @nmabekeh) 

08

Rustic Vibes—Bubble Midi Skirt + Short-Sleeve Blouse + Western Boots

Image credits: pealleh

pealleh

Who says a poofy skirt can’t play nice with cowboy boots? Bring high-fashion flair to the countryside by pairing a bubble midi skirt with a breezy short-sleeve blouse and classic Western boots. Start with a skirt from Gap (don’t forget to use our Gap coupon code for savings), then style it with a flowy Uniqlo top in soft florals, natural tones, or lightweight eyelet—perfect for those sunny, slow-paced days. Our Uniqlo coupon makes this rustic refresh even easier on your wallet.

Western boots from Free People add a rugged touch, and a woven tote or felt hat completes the look with a dose of down-home charm. Whether you’re heading to a country concert, farmers market, or just spending the weekend outdoors, this outfit is equal parts laid-back and standout. 


View All Top 10 Lists
Arrow white

The Latest

Image credits: @modern.day.classic

guides

Fashion in Your 40s: Where Style Meets Personality

From Workwear to Date Night—The Best Outfits for Your 40s

View All Articles
arrow

From Our Partners

Image credits: vestirsi

VESTIRSI

Meet VESTIRSI: The cult Australian handbag brand fusing Aussie laid back luxury with Italian leather craftsmanship.

Shop Now

Arrow white

Straight-to-the-point emails to make finding what you love even easier.