Generation Z revives the trend and balloon skirt resurfaces with the help of celebrities

An old and controversial trend has been revived by the fashion world and is gaining more and more followers among celebrities: the balloon skirt. The voluminous hem look, which was a hit in the 1980s and saw a revival in the early 2000s, has now been embraced by Generation Z.

This should be the fourth wave of revival of the item, which emerged in the 1950s, which, in the past, was a look adopted by Princess Diana and singer Cyndi Lauper, among others. It is likely that the mothers or grandmothers of the youngest have already worn the piece in previous decades — a true proof of the cyclical movement of fashion.

The data doesn’t lie. Research on Google Trends, the big tech trends platform, shows that the search for a balloon skirt in Brazil reached its peak in 2024. Between January and November this year, the volume of searches on the site was, on average, 40 times greater in compared to the same period in 2023.

This movement reflects the return of the piece as a highlight. At fashion weeks around the world, she was present on the catwalks of designer brands such as Miu Miu, Dior and Louis Vuitton.

The resurgence also had a little help from some celebrities who have already appeared with the non-discreet item, such as Sabrina Sato, Pabllo Vittar, Adriane Galisteu, American socialite Kylie Jenner, actress Zendaya and singer Sabrina Carpenter.

A quick search on the image platform Pinterest already shows some of the celebrity looks for inspiration for anyone interested. According to the network, between October 2023 and October 2024, search interest in balloon skirts and balloon skirt looks increased by 2,000% and 8,000%, respectively.

Whether short, midi or long, with a print or without, colorful or a more neutral color, the balloon skirt has been growing in popularity, as opposed to the quiet luxury trend, which was dominating until recently.

It is precisely in the contrast with this wave of low ostentation that the success of the less prissy piece can lie, according to image consultant Ana Vaz. “The balloon skirt goes against the grain of quiet luxury, which is characterized by more traditional cuts and more discreet colors,” he states.

“It attracts attention, it’s striking and different from everything we’re seeing”, she continues, remembering another factor that may be influencing the use of those born already immersed in the digital age: “It’s a visually interesting piece for the web social”.

The puffy piece was created after the Second World War, in Europe, and was popularized by Christian Dior and Cristóbal Balenciaga. According to scholars, the idea was to communicate, through the volume of the fabric, opulence, security and purchasing power.

Like other fashion items, balloons are controversial. As it enlarges the silhouette and adds volume, it can trigger fatphobia, something (unfortunately) common in the fashion world.

“We know that not everyone will be applauded for wearing what they want or will be respected for wearing what they want. A fat woman may be criticized by other people because she disconnects from the idea that she shouldn’t wear something that makes her figure look bigger “, says Vaz.

For those interested in having a drink with friends or going to a party wearing a balloon skirt, the consultant gives some combination tips. The idea is to take advantage of the versatility of the piece.

“There is so much possibility of repeating volume with volume, which I find interesting, or using a piece with more grip on the top. In this case, it might be cool to wear a t-shirt, tank top, bodysuit, corset or something sexier, with a deep neckline “, she indicates.

For those who want to break the romanticism of ballooning, combat boots and high-top sneakers are great options for your feet.