Bell Bottom Jeans Are Actually Back—Here’s How to Style Them in 2025

Bella Hadid on the chilly streets of New York City, Kendrick Lamar at the Super Bowl halftime, and many an influencer turning back and forth for the camera—all instances where iconic bell bottom flares showed up and had people stroking their chin wondering, “Are bell bottoms actually back?” Well, the answer is yes. 

“We’re seeing them all over the runways, from high-end designers like Christian Siriano, Chloé, and Etro to fast fashion brands bringing them back,” says Cassidy Montalvo, stylist and founder of I’MPerfectCollective. “Celebrities and influencers are styling them in fresh, modern ways, and there’s definitely a growing love for ‘70s-inspired fashion again—wide-leg pants, crochet, clogs, the whole aesthetic.” 

It doesn’t hurt that Gen Z is obsessed with the thrill of thrifting and scoring vintage finds—and bell bottoms are a thrift-store goldmine! 

A Little Bell Bottom History 

We think of bell bottoms as a relic of the Y2K era—a silhouette that marched right alongside baggy jeans and baby tees—but this pant goes back further than the ‘90s. 

“Elvis and his bell bottom fits in the ‘60s were absolutely a starting point, so we have to give credit to the King,” Montalvo says. She adds that still, “Bell bottoms are most famously tied to the ‘70s—think disco, free-spirited fashion, and icons like Cher pairing them with sky-high platforms.” 

They faded from favor in the ‘80s, but once the ‘90s rolled around they got a modernized rebranding a la the “flare.” This was the same idea as the OG bell bottom—pants that fit snugly through the thighs and flare dramatically from the knee down like a bell—only a bit subtler. Montalvo says, “Everyone from Britney Spears to the Friends cast wore them, making them a staple of the era.” 

Pro Tips on How to Style Bell Bottoms

The thing about fashion is that it’s meant to be fun. So consider this your sign to step outside of the baggy pants or skinny jean and try a little flare.  

“They’re bold but wearable, and they instantly elevate an outfit,” says Montalvo. “They also create such a flattering silhouette—longer legs, cinched waist, and that fun, effortless movement when you walk.” 

Not to mention, they instantly infuse some personality and a little nostalgia into your fit. Keep these styling tips in mind.  

• Shoes matter: Platforms or heeled boots keep that elongated leg effect. “If you’re on the shorter side, they help balance the volume so the pants don’t overwhelm your frame,” Montalvo says. 
• Lean into layers: Flared pants already bring drama, so keep your layers intentional. A tailored trench, a fitted moto jacket, or a lightweight cardigan can add structure without competing with the statement silhouette. 
• Consider proportions: Since bell bottoms create volume on the lower half, balance them out with a fitted or structured top for a streamlined silhouette. For a more relaxed vibe opt for an oversized knit; tuck in part of it to avoid looking overwhelmed by fabric.
• Play with textures: Lean into that ‘70s and ‘90s aesthetic with a suede jacket, a fun knit, or a vintage band tee, says Montalvo. They’ll help bring out a little retro charm without feeling like a full-blown costume.
• Make it modern: If you don’t want to channel the ‘80s, Montalvo suggests wearing bell bottoms with a sleek bodysuit, a structured blazer, or even a graphic tee for a more effortless, contemporary look.