Jeans Aren't "Out" this Spring, But this Underrated Staple Feels Far More "In" in 2026
Stuck for ideas on what to wear this spring and summer? We've spotted plenty of chic and easy skirt looks that are worth bookmarking to recreate.
After being both caught in the rain in sandals and sweating through unexpected sun in the same week, I'm slowly coming to terms with the fact that I haven't always gotten spring dressing right. All of the key elements are there: light jackets, layering pieces, floaty dresses and emergency knitwear, but when the weather can change on an hourly basis, what worked for a cold morning doesn't do the same for a sticky afternoon.
Good news then that one thing to come out of this predicament is a new found respect for skirts. As someone who has always lived in dresses, and more recently denim, skirts are the one category that I haven't explored enough, but battling through seasonal styling has brought them to the forefront, and I'm convinced that skirt outfits are the answer to the age old question "what should I wear in spring?".
Take a look through the feeds of the best dressed content creators and fashion editors and you'll start to notice a reoccurring spring outfit formula. Warmer and layered on top, a seasonal shoe (be it a mesh flat, strappy sandal, flip flop etc), and always (yes, always), a very good skirt.
Maxi column skirts, satin slips, puffball and demure knee-length skirts have all been having a moment lately, but the truth is, buzzy, micro trends rarely apply to skirts as their timeless appeal spans seasons and decades, and the same simple skirt you bought a year ago can still the foundation of dozens of new outfits today. In short, skirts never go out of fashion, and that makes them well worth investing in.
So, wondering how to wear skirts in 2026? i've done a little digging into the best transitional looks and spotted 7 outfits that are worth recreating the next time you don't know what to wear. Sorry faithful jeans, but we've got a new favourite go-to.
The Best Skirt Outfits 2026
1. Crew Neck + Bold Skirt + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Nailing the hiigh/low styling mix, Barbara's vibrant red skirt could easily be worn for evening, but she keeps it casual with a simple crew neck and flip flops. On cooler days you can swap the sweatshirt for fine cashmere, but stick to muted colours that help to make the skirt the focal point of the outfit.
Ultra soft, but still unbelievably light.
i'm obsessed with this trending skirt length.
Black rubber flip flops are a classic, but this burgundy leather feels more elevated.
2. Car Coat + Sheer Mini Skirt + Ballet Pumps
Style Notes: Trench coats served us well through autumn/winter, but spring calls for something fresher, and car coats are the same light layer you can throw on over anything, but with less of the bells and whistles. The perfect addition then to an outfit that uses layering as its point of difference, and sheer skirts look best styled up with longer tops and coats that only show the suggestion of skin.
Such a sunny spring hue.
Slightly cropped to make the most of a high-waisted skirt.
Don't panic, it's only semi sheer, so you don't have to worry about flashing too much.
It's a miracle that these are still in stock.
3. Oversized T-Shirt + Midi Skirt + Thong Sandals
Style Notes: Play with proportions and tuck big tops like oversized tees into longer skirts for an easy to assemble look inspired by Marilyn. For occasions that require a more effort, swap flip flops for heeled thong sandals—they have the same effect (and often comfort level) but with a little extra lift.
I always look for thicker, boxier tees as a sign of good quality.
I'd happily wear this with a camisole for evening too.
Sleek, modern and minimalist.
4. Shirt + Lace Skirt + Slingbacks
Style Notes: Now to a more risqué skirt not for the faint hearted, lace skirts has been picking up traction for the last 12 months, and now the weather is getting warmer again, expect to see see-through skirts on a street near you. I love how Jeanette pairs her with a baggy shirt for a little more coverage, and sharp slingbacks for edge.
WNU's boyfriend shirt is already a relaxed fit, but I'd size up to get it roomy enough to cover bum length.
Just so pretty.
Honestly, these could easily pass for designer.
5. Wool Jacket + Long Suede Skirt + Heels
Style Notes: Until we reliably reach 20 degrees, it's a good idea to have a jacket close to hand, and this grounded, tonal fit looks polished enough for weekends and work. We've got a few months left to make the most of suede (until autumn anyway), so go all out with maxi skirts that work well with heels.
You can wear this with everything from jeans to tracksuit bottoms too.
100% real leather suede for a truly premium feel.
I spotted these too and had to add to my basket.
6. Collarless Blazer + Column Skirt + Barely There Sandals
Style Notes: Looking for an outfit that will go down well in the office? This blazer and long skirt combo feels cooler by swapping a blazer with lapels for a collarless jacket, and trading a tailored pencil skirt for a longline column. I'd be tempted to wear loafers if i was on my feet all day, but take a strappy sandal with you for all of your after work plans.
Aligne are masters of the round neck blazer.
This will work with just about everything in your wardrobe.
The velvet finish is just *chefs kiss*.
7. V Neck + Mini Skirt + Trainers
Style Notes: Playful minis need an equally fun outfit, so trainers feel like the obvious choice. This cute mix of colour, texture and comfort is perfect for busy days on the go that don't need to be dressed "up" to look like you've still made an effort.
You just can't argue with that price.
Wear now with trainers, in summer with sandals and in autumn with knee high boots.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. These trainers are scoring high on my wish list right now.
