The Ultimate Guide to Skirts: Styling Tips for Every Season and Occasion
A warm-weather wardrobe staple; skirts. Aside from their popularity during the warmer seasons, skirts are much more versatile than they may be seen at first glance. From more casual settings to formal events, skirts can be styled in different ways to match different aesthetics, seasons, and occasions. Whether you prefer preppy styles, polished pencil skirts, or casual maxi skirts, there’s an option for every setting and style.
Here is a guide all about skirts, focusing on essential styles to daily outfit ideas across seasons. Firstly, understanding the vibes different styles add to an outfit is the first step to successfully style them across occasions. Depending on the personal twist you are looking for, there are different ways to style a skirt. Each silhouette has its own style which makes skirts more versatile.
To start off, the popular mini skirt is an ideal way to add a youthful and fun edge to any outfit. Mini skirts, whether pleated, flowy or fitted, are a perfect wardrobe staple. Mini skirts can be styled differently based on the occasion. For a cute outfit on campus, try pairing it with a comfortable jumper to dress it down. Moreover, it is the perfect spring/summer item, you can pair it with a cute top for an outfit that is both cute and comfortable for warmer weather. Finally, a good mini skirt is the perfect outfit base for a going out look. Try choosing darker colours or sequinned fabrics to create a statement night-out look.
If you’re looking for an option that can be suitable for formal occasions, the midi skirt is a great one. The midi skirt, ending just below the knee, is a great alternative to a mini silhouette without committing to the length of a maxi skirt. If you’re looking for a practical item, the midi skirt has the perfect balance of practicality and sophistication. You can easily style it up and down for daily looks and curate office wear inspired looks as a polished touch. Moreover, if you’re looking for a skirt that will be suitable for a formal environment like an office or an internship, the midi silhouette is an optimal choice. It also adds a layer of warmth when compared to the mini skirt, making it ideal for colder months or outfits that transition from warmer weather.
Finally, maxi skirts; with their increased popularity thanks to the boho style resurgence, exude an effortless, chic charm. Maxi skirts, depending on their style can add a lot to an outfit. For example, a flowy white maxi skirt will add the perfect bohemian twist whilst a satiny, fitted maxi skirt will be an elegant touch. Maxi skirts are a great layering piece for cooler climates, whilst remaining fashionable.
Different silhouettes can create completely different looks. For example, the preppy pleated skirt will create a cute, put together look, still maintaining a fun edge. Or a low-waist denim skirt will create the perfect effortless, street-style inspired look.
If you want to create an office-wear inspired look or want to focus on power dressing, the pencil skirt is a perfect option. Whether it is the quintessential shape, or the softer, modern cut, pencil skirts are a base that can be incorporated to many different outfits. For a warm weather look, the country inspired denim skirt is a timeless wardrobe style. Whether you are looking for a double denim moment in spring or want to style a cute outfit for summer, the denim skirt is cute and comfortable.
For the perfect mix of style and practicality, skorts are a great option. From the tennis inspired pleated skort to the classic denim cut, skorts are the perfect item to be chic and comfortable. You can choose the style of a skirt depending on the vibe you’re going for. Some with the sportier look are perfect for casual outfits. On the other hand, some skorts have discreet shorts making them extra charming due to the elegant look mixed with comfort.
The versatility of skirts can be closely interlinked to seasonal styling. Whilst warmer months are the first options that come to mind, skirts can shine through every season. Skirts can be styled year-round with layering techniques and warmer materials. For summer, breathable materials like linen, cotton, and chiffon will be the best option for a cute look that is weatherproof. For a seasonal touch, opt for brighter colours and cheerful patterns. Furthermore, for spring, you can style summer pieces with added layers depending on the temperature. For a seasonal look for spring florals (I know, groundbreaking!) and pastel shades are perfect.
In colder months, try giving skirts with warmer materials a chance. Some of these are tweed, wool and cord materials. Skirts pair impeccably well with tights, knitwear and boots. Matching your skirt to your tights or colour blocking is a great layering hack that will elevate your outfit.
Overall, despite what people may believe, skirts are incredibly versatile, offering endless styling possibilities for every season and occasion. Whether you prefer a structured pencil skirt for work, a breezy maxi for summer, there’s a style to suit everyone. To perfect your skirt styling, try experimenting with different fabrics, silhouettes, and layering techniques to make skirts a staple in your wardrobe or style them to their full potential.
Photography by Paulina Kachalova