What’s Trending: The Midi Skirt
Six ways to pull off this season’s most wearable trend
As skirt lengths go, the midi is like Goldilocks. Not to high, not too low—it’s just right come spring and summer. Classic midis have a pesky habit of doing absolutely zero for your figure, but now that the fashion powers have ordained it a staple, that’s all about to change.
Traditionally, the midi would have fallen at the mid-calf, the widest part of the leg (unless you’re of Alexa Chung proportions), which can obviously have unflattering connotations.
In its latest reincarnation, lengths are less strict and vary from just below the knee to a couple of inches above the ankle, meaning greater wearability, proving that it’s as versatile as it is flattering. Shapes have more variants too—full, flowing, pleated, tulip—there’s a style out there to suit anyone. A nipped-waist silhouette feels fresh and modern—especially when paired with a crop top, while an in-your-face print packs so much punch that all you need to finish the look is a white tee and low-heel sandals.
Best of all? The midi is a wear-anywhere piece. One style can take you from office to evening and beach to wedding; it’s the epitome of multifunctional fashion. But while all these are good things, adding the midi skirt to your existing wardrobe could prove challenging for those used to baring it all. Have your pick of six different ways to rock the midi, below:
Pretty In Prints
The all-important factor here is something to distract the eye. Whether it’s using black to anchor a multi-coloured pattern or touching on certain tones with accessories, visual relief should compensate a busy print. Remember, midi skirts mean more fabric, therefore more surface area to look at. The last thing you want is for your fave piece to turn into an eyesore.
The Lady
An A-line skirt is at its chicest when styled back with a shirt. Veer away from any ‘Stepford Wives’ vibes with a modern twist: this pleated leather skirt is the perfect mix of sweet and sour. Can you say biker chic?
Balancing Act
An extreme silhouette calls for a balance in proportions. If the skirt has volume, ensure you choose a top that sits close to the body. We love this asymmetric reversible skirt, and the two pastel tones make it perfect for spring.
Gift Wrap
Your collection of midi skirts is not complete without a wrap skirt. The pencil cut is universally flattering, and the centre slit intersects the full coverage with a dose of sexiness. The slit also offers a peek-a-boo glimpse, so take advantage of those knee-high boots. The graphic black and white print on this Cameo skirt is a real winner in our books, but if you’re not feeling prints, keep it classic with this red stunner by Ronny Kobo.
Fifty Shades
A single colour from head to heels can work wonders for a midi skirt. You will need to rely on texture (note the subtle tone play on this versatile skirt) and small accents to balance out the solid colour. A one-colour-fits-all approach can seem daunting, but don’t afraid to dare! Although neutrals work best, warmer days mean you can experiment with brighter hues.
The Matchmaker
We are crushin’ hard on this season’s key trend. Look hot in poppin’ prints from check to florals. Take a page from the queen of bodycon-midis herself, Khloe Kardashian, and go for this bold striped skirt. Look head to toe whoa and stand out from the crowd.