Yes, Bloomers are the "Ugly" Underwear We Can No Longer Ignore

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(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

Well, 2020 has sure thrown us some curveballs. While there were plenty of trends we fully expected to happen this year, we still find ourselves surprised by a few newcomers that have seemingly arrived out of the blue. With everyone prioritizing loungewear these days, the latest trend to hit the scene is one that's comfortable, easy, and a little unexpected: bloomers. Yep, bloomers are the new underwear trend that's gaining steam and you're about to understand why.

Historically, bloomers were long shorts to wear underneath skirts and dresses, but the modern-day iterations translate to charming ruffled lounge shorts and shirred underwear. Less literal bloomers, more bloomer vibes. Get the idea? To see what I mean, I'm sharing a multitude of outfit photos and even some recent runway evidence that showcase how bloomers are evolving into a loungewear and lingerie item that actually makes sense for 2020.

On the S/S 20 Runway

Although more of a micro-trend, bloomers did, in fact, pop up on the spring runways this year. At Khaite, they were part of a three-piece plaid set and appeared ready for a warm-weather getaway, while Tibi's gave off more of a vintage feel with their below-the-knee hem.

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Khaite S/S 20
(Image credit: Courtesy of Khaite)

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Tibi S/S 20
(Image credit: Courtesy of Tibi)

On the 'Gram

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

This image is actually what sparked the idea for this story. Here, Camille Charrière wore a pair of the Khaite shorts that read as literal bloomers. One commenter even called them "diaper shorts," which made me laugh. Cute but controversial.

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(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

Now, this is a summer lingerie trend if we've seen one. Shirred briefs aren't technically bloomers, but they give off that comfy, loungy bloomer vibe, if you know what I mean.

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(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

The dainty floral print and bow ties really make these the ultimate vintage-inspired pair.

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(Image credit: @itsmekellieb)

When you want to step out in them, throw on an opened button-down on top to complete the look.

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(Image credit: @emmaleger)

Throw on a big sweater and you have the ultimate cozy-cool look to wear at home.

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(Image credit: @discodaydream)

I'll be the first to admit that smocked lingerie pieces aren't the most practical for wearing underneath clothes, but dang do they look cute on their own.

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(Image credit: @laurencrowe88)

Not every pair has to look quite as literal, and these lounge shorts are a good example. The ruffle hem makes them resemble bloomers, but they're a little easier to wear.

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(Image credit: @fongminliao)

Brands like Le Petit Trou are basically experts in these smocked lingerie styles.

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(Image credit: @shhtephs)

The smocking details that we usually find on top and dresses this time of year have officially found their way into the lingerie section, and the pieces couldn't be any prettier.

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(Image credit: @emili_tla)

One more because this lounging-in-bed look is everything.

Up next, "napkin tops" are the risky trend fashion people are actually pulling off.

Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.