From suffragist icon to fashion staple, the 19th century undergarment is back in a big way

In a move that’s both nostalgic and subversive, big, frilly bloomers are taking the fashion world by storm this spring.

The 19th century undergarment, once relegated to the realm of historical curiosity, has been thrust into the 21st century spotlight by a string of celebrities and influencers who are embracing its playful, carefree spirit.

At the forefront of this trend are designers like Chemena Kamali, the creative director of Chloé, who featured bloomers in her spring/summer ’25 show last September.

The look, described by Vogue as having “the potential to reshape how young women think about sexy dressing in 2025,” has since been adopted by fashion enthusiasts around the world.

But bloomers aren’t just a fleeting fashion fad – they have a rich history that dates back to the 1850s, when American suffragist Amelia Bloomer popularized the style as a way for women to free themselves from restrictive corsets and crinolines.

The movement, which drew international attention when suffragists wore bloomers to the World’s Peace Congress in London in 1851, was met with widespread backlash, with “Bloomerites” being harassed and arrested on the street.

Fast forward to today, and bloomers are being re-imagined for the modern era by designers like Flora Sharp, the director of London-based brand Flora Mae.

Sharp’s “Verona” bloomers, which have become the most popular item on her site, are handcrafted from repurposed fabrics and feature an elasticated waist and adjustable drawstring bow detail for a more comfortable fit.

According to Sharp, bloomers appeal to people who are “increasingly drawn to experimental and subversive styling.” They can be layered in different ways, peeking from underneath a skirt or worn as a statement piece on their own. And with prices ranging from £65 to £1,560, there’s a bloomer to suit every budget.

So, if you’re feeling bold and want to join the blooming trend, be prepared for some curious glances from passersby. As Sharp notes, “it’s blooming mad” – but in a good way.

Key Takeaways:

Big, frilly bloomers are taking the fashion world by storm this spring

Bloomers have a rich history dating back to the 1850s, when American suffragist Amelia Bloomer popularized the style

Modern designers are reimagining bloomers for the 21st century, with a focus on comfort and versatility

Prices for bloomers range from £65 to £1,560

Bloomers are a great way to add a playful, subversive touch to your wardrobe