You Might Be Sceptical, But This Divisive Dress Trend Is Making a Comeback for 2025

If there's one thing that you can rely on in the world of fashion, it's that a trend will always come back around. In 2025, we've seen the resurgence of several trends, including cropped flare jeans making a comeback in the world of denim and the vintage polka-dot print that fashion enthusiasts can't get enough of. However, I think it's safe to say that none have caused quite the same divide as the bubble-hem dress.

Also referred to as balloon-hem or puffball, bubble-hem dresses feature skirt hems that have been folded back on themselves to create the 'bubble' effect at the hemline. Once a staple of the 1980s and later the early 2000s, the voluminous silhouette has long been synonymous with a more maximalist sense of style. However, for 2025, it's very clear that this "dated" dress trend is back in a much more pared-back way. Instead of dramatic puffball styles that were once considered the norm, bubble-hem dresses now usually feature toned-down hems that feel both chic and wearable.

Both high-street and luxury brands have created their takes on this retro dress style to make them feel fresh for 2025. From H&M to Self-Portrait, keep scrolling to discover the best bubble-hem dresses to invest in for 2025.

Shop the Bsst Bubble-Hem Dresses

Bubble-hem dresses have long been considered 'divisive' because they are more often viewed as a trend piece rather than a timeless piece that you can keep in your wardrobe for years to come. However, for 2025, both affordable and high-end brands have managed to create bubble-hem iterations that fit in much more with the minimalist palette of fashion people than the more dramatic dresses we saw in the eighties. In fact, the classic, flattering silhouette of the bodice paired with the playful volume of the skirt means that puffball dresses perfectly balance classic with modern.

What to Wear With Bubble-Hem Dresses

The key to styling a bubble-hem dress in 2025 is to keep things simple and allow the dress to act as the main focal point of the outfit. Mini, midi or maxi, a balloon dress can be paired with minimalist ballet flats, trainers, or kitten heels. Then, stick to more classic iterations of accessories such as a leather shoulder bag or plain black sunglasses.

A pair of statement earrings or necklace can be used to take the dress from day to night, but avoid over-layering jewellery, which can make the outfit feel too busy.

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