Turns Out, This Surprising Skirt Trend Is Actually a Very Chic Alternative to Jeans in Winter

Back in 2022, designers from Fendi to Versace, revived the micro miniskirt. Miu Miu stole the show on the spring/summer runway, debuting a utilitarian take on the mini with teeny-tiny proportions not much thicker than a wide belt. The references to Y2K were strong, and although the micro mini skirt has divided opinions, even now booming sales are evidence of its popularity.

But let's rewind a little bit so we can understand the origin of these popular micro-length skirts. The years 2000 to 2003 were the heyday for micro miniskirts, with pop culture icons such as Christina Aguilera, Halle Berry and Cindy Crawford being captured out and about in styles no wider than a few inches, give or take. The era was synonymous with female empowerment, expressed through playful styling and barely-there clothes.

The now-iconic Miu Miu skirt on the runway.

One of my favourite pastimes is bearing witness to the cyclical nature of trends and seeing how people make runway trends their own with individual styling tweaks. There's a certain nostalgia that comes with seeing styles I desperately longed to wear as a teenager make a comeback. I spent a portion of the 2000s fantasising about wearing such a style, hiking up my school skirt in a bid to emulate Britney Spears' "Baby One More Time" ensemble.

But I'm excited to take on the trend in a chic, grown-up way nowadays. And if ever there was a time to experiment with shorter hemlines (although granted, not quite as short as that iconic Miu Miu style) it's in the winter when playing with proportions is integral. For colder weather, I recommend keeping your look simple and adding a woollen knit and overcoat, before choosing from heels, boots or trainers. Think of a micro mini as an unexpected alternative to jeans—surprising, yes, but just as versatile and easy to style.

Scroll on to see how some of the fashion set are wearing their mini skirts right now, and shop some of my favourite winter-ready styles.

Micro Mini Skirts to Wear This Winter:

1. Black Mini Skirts

Style Notes: I have to say, it doesn't get more classic than a black micro mini. This iconic skirt pairs well with just about anything in your closet, and this is particularly true for winter when colour palettes get deeper and more saturated. I love how Francesca styled her mini with heeled cowboy boots for a cosy Scandinavian vibe.

Shop Black Mini Skirts:

2. Bubble Hem Mini Skirts

Style Notes: This is a fun take on the much-loved mini skirt. The added volume adds so much to an outfit, and I think it's a perfect option for holiday parties or to spice up everyday outfits. I love how Marilyn has paired hers with a simple tee.

Shop Bubble Hem Skirts:

3. Statement Mini Skirts

Style Notes: Lucy's gorgeously sparkly skirt is perfect for holiday parties. It's exactly the kind of statement piece you'd want for special occasions. Pair with a cosy knit, sheer tights and boots for the full look. Depending on the skirt you find, it's also possible to wear this style into spring and summer.

Shop Statement Mini Skirts:

4. Navy Mini Skirts

Style Notes: Like black micro minis, navy skirts are another staple as they're nearly as versatile as the former. They're also a nice swap when you want a grounded dark tone but something that's a little more colourful than black or grey. Make like Abisola and style your mini with a collarless cropped jacket. I also recommend finding woollen styles for winter.

Shop Navy Mini Skirts:

5. Patterned Mini Skirts

Style Notes: Whilst you can never go wrong with a solid coloured micro mini, there's something about a patterned one that really energises an outfit. And with the right pairing, you can make them look extremely elevated. Opt for a miniskirt with a matching jacket for a classic, Parisian ensemble, like Anne-Laure. You can wear this look with any footwear, too, from loafers to trainers.

Shop Patterned Mini Skirts:

Shop More Micro Mini Skirts

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.