I have a theory. If you want to predict an upcoming trend, just look at the fashion archives of the last 50 years and wait until you feel the need to proclaim, “That will never be in style again!” Then fire up Vinted because you’ll have next year’s fashion essentials ready to go.

The latest proof of my theory? Puffball skirts, or “bubble skirts”—as seen in one of Princess Diana’s less desirable photos from the 1980s, on a Cyndi Lauper costume, or perhaps in a retro version of prom in a bad sitcom.

But now they look right at home on models, influencers and all-round London trend types, setting the standard for months to come. Thankfully, not all balloon skirts are the same, and as much as mini puffballs are in style in these last few warmer weeks, you can expect midi and maxi lengths (think deflated balloon, but chic) ​​to stick around well into autumn. Maybe even into the Christmas party season, given how well known puffballs and lamé are.

So how did this relic find its way back into fashion? It’s been popping up on runways for a while now, but without much fanfare. Last summer, there was Jacquemus’ Lady Di-inspired “Le Chouchou” summer show in Versailles, where guests sat in rowboats as one puffball silhouette after another strode down the runway.

At first, the commitment to puffballs was laughed at and the show was seen as a rare failure. But then came more: Miu Miu showed a more subtle version of it for Fall/Winter 2024, as did rock expert Chopova Lowena, who swapped her trademark check pattern for lots of patterned puffballs.

Evie Stothert, head stylist at Harrods and a passionate bubble skirt lover, considers it a “bottom-up” trend (pardon the pun) rather than something that has trickled down the catwalk.

“I think a lot of it came from the flirtatious trend,” she says, “and this very hyper-feminine ballet style. People in fashion love Sandy Liang and these clothes with lots of bows, lots of pink, white and red. I think it came more from this street style that was then adopted by the bigger houses who are now showing it on their runways.”

This means you can get your hands on a high street classic as easily as a high fashion version, as retailers have already recognised the demand. So do yourself a favour and invest in a bubble skirt today. Chances are it will outlast your expectations.

Five Puffball Skirts You Can Buy Now

Molly Goddard, £590, doverstreetmarket.com

Ghospell, £95, sisterjane.com

Free People, £88, freepeople.com

& other stories, £110, stories.com