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In the early stages of the women’s rights movement, a woman named Amelia Bloomer popularized a style of Turkish trousers — loose, billowy, and worn under a midi skirt — as a form of protest during a time when women wearing pants was controversial (thank God we’ve moved past that as a society). Just under 200 years later, the pants she popularized, now known as bloomers in her name, have found themselves embroiled in controversy once more. Ironic!
This time, though, the actual act of wearing pants isn’t what’s causing a kerfuffle. Similar to barrel-leg jeans and Bermuda shorts, some of you seem to think they’re ugly. I get it. They’re frilly and give off a general air of pirateness, plus these suckers look like long underwear. To each their own, but lest we forget the major moment these pants had on Chloé’s spring 2025 runway. I’m here to speak my truth.
I love bloomers.
I love how flowy they are. I love how versatile they are. I love how misunderstood they are. Mostly, I love how comfortable they are.
For the past few weeks, I’ve been testing the waters and wearing my glorified pantaloons out and about on walks or to run errands. If nothing else, bloomers are a wonderful summer option: airy and chafe-free. Hallelujah!
That said, not all bloomers are created equal. Over the course of my experiment, I tried a few pairs that had me feeling like a crumpled-up napkin. Not to fret, though: I’ve rounded up some of my favorite pairs I took for a test-drive.
So, you’re looking for the best bloomers?
➼ If you’re feeling traditional ...
➼ If you like ’em short …
➼ If the Olsen twins are your style icons ...
➼ If you’re going all in on the trend …
If you’re feeling traditional …
Kimchi Blue Cressida Lace-Trim Ruffle Bloomer Pant
These bloomers from Urban Outfitters are perhaps the most comfortable pants I’ve ever tried on. If I could go on a run without smattering every disc in my spine, I would consider doing so in these. I wore them on a bike ride to the park, where I lounged on the grass and read a book, and they were perfect for both being in motion and being still. The pair I tried is sold out, but this pair by the same brand is in stock.
Tula Frilly Hem Trouser
I know these are testing the limit of what we consider bloomers, but if I see a frill, I’m excusing it!
If you like ’em short …
Out From Under Jolie Ruffle Eyelet Lace Long Bloomer
A fun variation with a tiny pop of color if you’re bored of wearing neutrals.
The Bermuda Short
This pair is so versatile and can be dressed up or down. Our market editor, Emma Oleck, and our senior shopping editor, Bianca Nieves, also own and adore these shorts. They have completely different senses of style, but both rock this set.
The Bloomer
Some people can really pull this silhouette off without looking like a baby in a diaper. I am not one of those people. That said, I will be wearing these cute short shorts in the comfort of my own home and away from judging eyes!
Cambridge Pull-On Shorts
The whimsy in this one pair of shorts is enough to cure whatever melancholy adulthood may bring.
Lace Long Boxer
Another pair Nieves loves. She likes styling hers with knee-high boots so it counters their cottagecore aesthetic.
If the Olsen twins are your style icons …
Forever Young Bloomer Pants
The boho renaissance is back in full swing. When I hear the word bloomers, this is exactly the pair my brain conjures up.
Made You Look Shorts
Once again, we’re stretching the definition of bloomers … but are they flowy? Check. Are they frilled at the hem? Check. I think they pass.
If you’re going all in on the trend …
Fluid cropped Pants In Washed Silk Pongé & Lace
Listen, if you’ve got the money to blow, by all means. Just please send me a photo so I can experience joy via bloomers vicariously through you.