Fashion has always thrived on rebellion, and every so often, a trend emerges that feels like a deliberate challenge to the status quo. The return of the bumster pant is one of those moments. Ultra-low-rise, provocative, and downright impractical, it’s the kind of fashion statement that makes people stop and ask, “Are we really doing this again?” The answer, if the Fall 2025 runways are anything to go by, is a resounding yes.
At Dsquared2’s recent anniversary show at Milan Fashion Week, the bumster pant made a return, with models strutting down the runway with it in all its cheeky glory. The brand’s founders, Dean and Dan Caten, pulled off a spectacle filled with roller skaters in sequins, cowboy-inspired looks, and a disco-fueled party atmosphere that set the tone for a season of uninhibited fun. But even among the chaos of the show, the bumster stood out.
Model Alex Consani wore a sleek black leather version, while another model sported a glittering crystal-encrusted take. There was even a denim iteration worn by Doechii, paired with a corset belt and a cropped jacket that barely skimmed the waist. The message was clear: the bumster isn’t just back; it’s back with attitude.
Photo: Getty Images Dsquared2 wasn’t the only label to embrace the low-rise revolution. Over at Diesel, Glenn Martens sent bumsters down a runway set against graffiti-covered walls, further cementing the trend’s rebellious spirit.
Known for his ability to push denim into unexpected territories, Martens played with proportions, sending models out in ultra-low-slung jeans that looked like they were barely hanging on. He closed his show with three models in bumsters that left little to the imagination, a final, undeniable statement that this once-scandalous trend was making a comeback.
Photo: Getty Images Origin of The Bumster Pants
For many, the resurgence of the bumster might feel like a joke, a nostalgic callback to the early 2000s when pop stars and reality TV icons made low-rise jeans a cultural phenomenon. But the bumster’s roots run deeper than Y2K excess. The silhouette first appeared in the early 1990s, introduced by a young Lee Alexander McQueen in his “Nihilism” collection.
Photo: Condé Nast Archive/Alexander McQueen Inspired by construction workers whose jeans naturally sagged to reveal their backsides, McQueen saw beauty in the unexpected. He believed that by lowering the waistline to its absolute limit, he could elongate the body, creating a striking, exaggerated proportion.
At the time, McQueen’s designs were met with both fascination and horror. The bumster was raw, unapologetic, and overtly sexual in a way that unsettled the fashion establishment. But like most of McQueen’s work, it was also undeniably brilliant, a piece of avant-garde tailoring that played with form and convention. The bumster wasn’t just about revealing skin—it was a deliberate shift in the way clothing interacted with the body.
In the decades since, the silhouette has surfaced in different iterations but never with the same cultural impact as it had in the 1990s — until now.
Why Now? The Bumster’s Comeback in 2025
After years of high-waisted, tailored looks dominating fashion, the pendulum is swinging in the opposite direction. The bumster’s comeback signals a collective craving for something looser, more daring, and a little ridiculous.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bumster might also be a reflection of the cultural and political climate. Fashion has long been a mirror of society, and if the past few years have been defined by restraint—both in style and in life—the return of the bumster could be seen as a form of rebellion.
Photo: Getty Images Naomi Fry, in a piece for The New Yorker, recently joked about the “boob index,” suggesting that we might measure economic shifts by the amount of cleavage on display. If that’s the case, perhaps the bumster is an alternative gauge—a reminder that when things feel uncertain, sometimes the best response is to laugh, let loose, and drop the waistline a little lower.
How to Wear the Bumster in 2025
Originally a daring trend, the bumster pants have evolved beyond their rebellious roots into a versatile style choice. The secret to making them work lies in balance. The ultra-low waistline makes a statement, but the rest of the outfit should feel intentional and polished.
A sleek and tailored approach works well for those looking for a refined take. Structured versions in wool blends, satin-finish fabrics, or well-fitted denim create a sharp silhouette. Pairing them with a crisp blazer or a structured crop top contrasts the slouchy waistline. Pointed-toe heels or sleek ankle boots elongate the legs, while minimal gold jewelry and a statement belt bring everything together.
For a more relaxed, streetwear-inspired look, looser styles paired with fitted tops create a cool effect. An oversized sweater or cropped hoodie offers contrast without making the look feel too exposed. Chunky sneakers or platform boots keep things grounded, and mixing textures—such as leather pants with a ribbed knit top—adds depth.
Minimalists can style bumster pants in a way that feels understated yet modern. Monochrome dressing in neutral shades softens the boldness of the low waist. A longline trench over a fitted tank keeps things sleek, while clean lines and high-quality fabrics ensure a sophisticated result. Strappy sandals or mules complete the ensemble without overpowering it.
For those who enjoy the Y2K revival, the key is to modernize the aesthetic. Cargo-style bumster pants with a fitted baby tee or corset balance nostalgia with wearability. Layering plays a crucial role in making the look contemporary, whether through an oversized bomber jacket or a long leather trench. Accessories like micro sunglasses, chunky silver jewelry, and mini shoulder bags add to the retro appeal while keeping it fresh.
An avant-garde interpretation leans into exaggerated proportions, cutouts, and asymmetry. A sheer or mesh bodysuit under a tailored blazer creates a striking contrast, while sculptural handbags and statement heels elevate the aesthetic.
Leather or patent materials enhance the edgy feel, making the look both high-fashion and wearable for a bold night out.
At its core, the bumster’s return is about more than just nostalgia. It’s a reminder that fashion should be playful, unexpected, and sometimes a little ridiculous.
For years, minimalism and practicality have reigned supreme, but there’s something thrilling about a trend that feels like it’s meant to be enjoyed rather than analyzed. The bumster isn’t here to make sense; it’s here to make a statement. And whether that statement is a cultural critique, a fashion rebellion, or just an excuse to have some fun, one thing is certain: the era of serious dressing is over.
Photo: Getty Images
