We Regret to Inform You: Popcorn Tops Are Back
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It feels like we've made our way through every Y2K nostalgia trend in recent years—from the return of low-rise jeans to flatforms—but now, another clothing trend is making a surprising comeback. The popcorn top, also known as a scrunchie top or bubble top, is one of the more confusing trends from the early aughts, yet it's making a grand return. If you're unfamiliar (or chose to forget), popcorn tops are ultra-tiny shirts that can allegedly stretch to fit multiple body types. The defining characteristic, though, is the puckered, bubble-effect material that gives the top stretch. Celebrities including Dua Lipa and Lisa from Blackpink have embraced the return of popcorn tops, and luckily, many brands have found ways to modernize the style by celebrating the piece's unique texture in a more size-inclusive, wearable way. Exhausted Depop and looking for more options to find your perfect popcorn match? Scroll on for seven of our favorite modern popcorn tops to shop right now.
Square-Neck Chic
Staud Eleanora Top ($325)
If you're unsure how to translate the popcorn top into 2023, Staud has the answer. Not only is this top on trend, but it's wearable for daytime or a night out. We also love the square neckline, which feels decidedly modern and elevates the overall look.
Understated Tee
Madewell Popcorn Top ($60)
Popcorn tops usually feature a loud pattern or a bright hue, but this one from Madewell provides a more casual, understated way to embrace the style for everyday wear. The scrunched material adds a fun twist to a closet staple, and we think this green shade is so versatile.
Scarlet Popcorn
Super Yaya Crushed Popcorn Waffle-Shirred Cotton T-Shirt ($347)
Conquer two trends at once with this bright red popcorn top. The scarlet shade is taking over for fall 2023, so it only makes sense to combine it with another micro-trend. Just be prepared to be asked where you got your top all day long, as this unique piece is sure to garner compliments galore.
Popcorn Polo
Kkco Split Popcorn Polo ($185)
This lime green and teal popcorn top isn't one for the minimalists. The polo-style shirt features a front zip collar, plus you can pair it with the brand's matching mini skirt if you're looking to go all out for a Y2K moment.
Puff-Sleeve Popcorn
Eri + Ali Textured Puff-Sleeve Top ($68)
We'll call this blouse the "grown-up" answer to popcorn top nostalgia. It stays true to the fun and funky bubble material of other popcorn tops, but the puff sleeves add an elegant touch that makes it appropriate for more formal occasions. The white shade is great for working this textured look into your go-to neutral ensembles, but there's also black and a vivid green if either of those are more your taste.
Off-the-Shoulder Texture
Mara Hoffman Aja Cropped Popcorn Tencel Lyocell Top ($315)
Mara Hoffman is known for her crinkled fabric, which has a subtle popcorn-like effect to it. While the brand carries a variety of brightly colored pieces in this material, we love this black cropped style, which features a wide neckline and a gathered center.
Eclectic Y2K Moment
Marine Serre Popcorn-Mix Printed Top ($740)
We could see Y2K fashion icons like Lizzie McGuire rocking this popcorn top from Marine Serre. If the bright pink hues weren't eye-catching enough, the color-blocked top also features a cheetah print pattern, as well as a panel of the brand's iconic half-moon logo on the back side of the shirt.
Up Next: We Regret to Inform You, Capris Are Back
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