It's been 20 years since Miuccia Prada explained her philosophy on skirts. Fast forward to the present day, and her words are still ringing loudly in our ears: "For me, the skirt is like a T-shirt. So I put all my ideas there". She goes on to explain that an eccentric skirt "doesn't change that much about you" because it's "waist down". To me, it makes perfect sense: the closer to your face an item of clothing or accessory is, the more of a commitment it feels. It’s the same logic behind telling my hairdresser to keep a deep root when I get my hair coloured so I can be "spiritually brunette".

I have a penchant for a low-effort, high-payoff outfit, and this is why I love skirts so much. When in the thick of climate-change-induced heatwaves, the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable, but as fashion folk, if there’s a way to hack the system and stay cool without sacrificing style, then it’s all aboard! A dramatic skirt is the antidote to a potentially boring top. Case in point: Carrie Bradshaw in her tutu, elevating a simple vest to become part of a look that made fashion history. Then there are Salma Hayek’s evening skirts and kitsch little cardigans and bandeaus on red carpets in the '90s, which remain on mood boards to this day.

The word on the street is that it’s a statement-skirt summer, and one of the undisputed It styles of the season is the "party skirt" by Versace, by way of Dario Vitale’s one-and-done collection as creative director. The scandal surrounding the collection lends it some infamy and notoriety, and the skirt is the perfect piece to wear as I lay back on the hill I would die on, which is that multicolour pieces are easier to style than most neutrals. They go with everything, and the party skirt is no different. I have worn this skirt nonstop since it arrived at my door. Throwing on a fabulous, colourful skirt and a top is just as low effort as putting on a T-shirt and jeans. Two items are all it takes; why not choose the more elevated path?

Alana Hadid did for the launch of her trainer collab with ARKK at CPHFW. She paired a bubblegum-pink trainer in a "dad" silhouette with a just-as-pink "princess" skirt and a tied black tee. As if by magic, the huge plumes of her skirt seemed, dare I say, casual—it’s all in the styling! The look reminded me of a Copenhagen version of Claudia Schiffer by Arthur Elgort in 1994 in a knotted Genny cardigan and a billowing taffeta skirt by Atelier Versace. As we veer into autumn, the cardigan will be the fun skirt's Type A bestie: Saffy up top and Eddie below the waist.

My own wardrobe has become incredibly skirt-heavy of late, so I've been tasking myself with making sure they all get a good outing. I accidentally got the girls in a frenzy when I posted a recent instalment of my video series where I show real outfits alongside the real (read: chaotic) background situation in my flat as a mum who works in fashion. In a week of work and school runs, I truly wore a Dries Van Noten skirt covered in tiny loose threads that looks like it could have been made by Cookie Monster if he went to Central Saint Martins, a lime green and white Sunnei skirt with the texture of a cracked meringue, a vintage Escada skirt in bright pink and green houndstooth, a throwback Evisu skirt and the aforementioned Versace number.

The biggest showstopper, however, was a recent addition by BruceGlen that is a sensory utopia, adorned with clear, oversized sequins that reveal rugby stripes underneath. The BruceGlen twins (fashion designers Bruce and Glen Proctor) filled me in on the design story: "We wanted to take the classic stripe and silhouette and infuse them with a little whimsy. We added oversized piettes (what we call bubbles) to create the feeling that you’re surrounded by bubbles as you move. For us, bubbles represent present joy, so the skirt is ultimately a reminder to slow down, embrace the moment and enjoy the now," they told me. Clearly, they exceeded expectations, as this skirt gets the most joyous reactions in public.

The key to a great skirt is to think limitlessly. Nothing is too weird, too textural, too bright, too voluminous. And just because the skirt is a statement, it doesn't mean everything else has to be minimal. You can make it even more interesting by styling it with a top in a contrasting colour, such as red with a lime skirt or baby blue with a deep purple. If you’re more maximalist, experiment with clashing prints or the same print in a different colour. On the flip side, you can join the fun in a more low-key way. One of my favourite skirts is a navy silk asymmetric style with a fully sheer lower panel by Hades. It’s the perfect prelude to an unexpected shoe. To conclude, your outfit is a gallery, and the skirt is the main event. Happy dressing!

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Knee-length skirts might be dominating the conversation this summer, but after a few weeks of people-watching across London, I'm convinced that there's another skirt trend making its return. Whilst fashion people have happily embraced midi hemlines, the very chicest are also revisiting a classic.

The trend that caught my eye? The denim mini skirt. Putting it back on my radar, I spotted London style icon Alexa Chung swapping a knee-skimming style for a timeless dark-wash denim mini version. After spending the past few seasons on the sidelines, I'm calling this the summer the denim mini finally stages its comeback.

And if anyone can revive a trend, it's Alexa. Styling her dark-wash denim mini with a white button-down shirt and tall bow-embellished heels, she gave the classic piece a cool-girl feel. Evidently easy to dress up, it's just as wearable with a boxy T-shirt and strappy sandals or simple flip-flops.

As with all the best trends, fashion's pendulum always swings back around, and this summer seems to me like the moment the denim miniskirt returns. If you're ready to welcome it back too, keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best denim miniskirts of the season.

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Fran Lebowitz famously claims that “favourites are for children”. Whilst what I’m about to confess to might not garner the famed New York-based critic and essayist's approval—little does, anyway—but I simply have to own up to the fact that when it comes to bottoms, skirts really are my preferred shape to wear.

I’m not alone in preference, with the season’s balmy climate and scorching temperatures convincing even the most stringent trouser loyalist to consider the breezy elegance and romantic effortlessness of summer’s key skirt trends.

“Skirts are having a real moment this season,” echoes Laura Broque, the founder of Melbourne-based and Scandi-inspired womenswear label Henne. “Interpretations are varied, both on the runway and in real life,” she notes before adding, “so too are hemlines and the choice of fabrics, which makes the style hard to ignore as a wardrobe foundation for summer.”

Of the biggest summer skirt trends defining this season, Broque notes that there’s a discernible balance between “feminine softness and minimalist edge that feels especially relevant”. She explains: “There’s a definite rise in midi hemlines, sleek pencil shapes, lace trims, low slung ‘90s styles and utility detailing. Our customers are embracing these styles already and are quickly becoming key silhouettes for summer.”

Of course, it’s easy to spot the inspiration behind these key summer skirt trends if you know where to look. A renewed interest in Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s off-duty wardrobe has thrust greyscale workwear and quite minimalist back into view, with these motifs being translated through body-conscious staples that graze the knee and austere basics that serve as a blank canvas for a riveting summer outfit.

A shift towards hybrid fashion—see: clothes that can serve multiple purposes—has also been embraced, leading to more functional silhouettes that are reminiscent of Miu Miu’s spring/summer 1999 and spring/summer 2023 collections.

On that note, Mrs. Prada has a quote that often stays with me whenever I need reminding of the power that a summer skirt holds. “For me, the skirt is like a T-shirt. I put all my ideas on the skirt... and you can put so much more creativity [into it] than trousers," she quipped during a sit-down interview in 2006.

So, consider this your formal invitation to make like the industry’s best dress and invest in one of 2026’s biggest summer skirt trends. Who knows, you might just find yourself a convert.

7 Summer Skirt Trends Style Insiders are Wearing All Throughout 2026

1. Château Florals

Style Notes: Summer is the perfect time to escape to the French countryside. But if bookings at Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay or Airelles Château de Versailles have escaped your grasp, why not emulate the charming decor of these haunts through your skirt choices? Fusing the gothic romance we saw trend in the year to coincide with the release of Wuthering Heights, with a more Marie Antoinette colour palette, wearing this skirt trend should feel like you’ve just dressed yourself in the wallpaper of some palatial 17th Century home.

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2. Balearic Crochet

Style Notes: A tonic for your Balearic blues—a proverbial affliction that describes your dolefulness for not being on holiday in Palma orMahón—crochet skirts have emerged as a shortcut to sun-kissed stylings. Best worn by the coast, these hand-crafted silhouettes inject a bohemian sensibility in any ensemble and emulate the trademark motifs of Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza and Chloé. Pair with a neon orange cocktail, wedges and plenty of chunky jewellery.

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3. Côte d'Azur Embellishments

Style Notes: In a style that will instantly conjure the opening lilt of Charles Trenet’s “La Mer", embellished skirts are making their way off the shoreline and into the streets. From silver sequins to scintillating paillettes and glimmering embroidery, it’s never been more appropriate to dress in a skirt most suited for seaside shenanigans.

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4. Boudoir Trims

Style Notes: Summer is all about oscillating between coastal and city environments. But for those in-between moments when you don’t want something too overt, reach for a style more intimate and graceful, like the boudoir-approved lace-trim skirt. Slip into this to feel like Carrie Bradshaw polishing up her latest column at home following a trip to the Hamptons with the girls.

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5. Pencil Sharp

Style Notes: A few seasons ago, the idea of wearing a pencil skirt in summer might’ve had someone thinking you were planning your Halloween costume incredibly early. (And that you were envisioning going as Joan from Mad Men or Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina.) To those uninitiated, remind them that pencil skirts have been a sartorial staple since Christian Dior’s spring/summer 1954 collection and have since found a new audience after appearing in countless designer collections during the recent spring/summer 2026 season, including Chanel, Saint Laurent and Calvin Klein. Taking notes yet?

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6. Bring It On Minis

Style Notes: Those who memorised Kirsten Dunst’s opening cheer from Bring It On will find solace in this style. Easy-to-throw-on, track-inspired minis that feel straight out of the Y2K era are making a comeback. Now paired with chic studded bags from Gimagaus and sultry tops from Paloma Wool, but why not go full Blue Crush and style them with a chunky necklace, tankini and wedge flip flops from Ancient Greek Sandals?

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7. Sheer Impact

Style Notes: Why not maximise Vitamin D exposure in a way that would earn Phoebe Philo’s seal of approval through the sheer skirt trend? A sheath of mesh will always add intrigue and an element of mystery, making this style deceptively sensual and perennially enigmatic.

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When the warmer days arrive, my wardrobe immediately shifts gears. The denim and tailored trousers that dominate my cool-weather wardrobes are suddenly set aside to make way for airy skirts and dresses. With summer on the horizon, we’ve already hunted down a series of pretty dresses to see us through the warmer months, and now my attention is on easy summer skirts. Over the past few days, I’ve taken on the challenge of hunting down the best skirts on the high street, and after hours in the changing rooms and scrolling through the new-in sections, my final edit is ready to be shared.

Skirts are an undeniable summer staple. Paired with romantic blouses, simple T-shirts or slinky silk tops, the everyday companion truly comes into its own when the warmer days arrive. For summer 2026, the high street stores are ensuring that we’re spoilt for choice, offering up a wide variety of styles from mini to maxi, fitted to flowing, timeless to trending. Personally, I think this might be the best selection of skirts to date.

Of all the new arrivals, my edit of the best high street skirts focuses on elegant designs, timeless appeal, and serious wearability. For those leaning into the boho revival, keep an eye out for intricate lace, pretty Broderie anglaise and delicate embroidery. For the classicists, I've found a selection of minimalist designs that will become treasured staples in your summer capsule wardrobe. With high temperatures set to return any day now, I've turned to breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to add a breezy edge to summer dressing. If you're ready to add a touch of elegance to your summer wardrobe, scroll on to shop the nine high-street skirts that will sell out first, plus more styles on my wish list.

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Longer evenings, bursts of colourful blooms and the steady climb in temperatures all play their part in making spring my favourite season. Still, I’d be remiss not to mention another real reason I look forward to this time of year: it marks the return of skirts. After months of relying on denim, there’s something so refreshing about slipping into a great skirt again.

As we settle into spring 2026, I've noticed that the skirts fashion people are reaching for this spring feel sleeker and more refined than before, with a palpable '90s spirit. In fact, several retro silhouettes and prints are coming back right now, all of which channel that sleek minimalism the decade did so well. From nostalgic patterns that feel newly relevant to elongated shapes that are taking off right now, below are the ’90s skirt trends to know for spring 2026.

4 '90s Skirt Trends Taking Off This Spring

1. Plaid Skirts

Style Notes: Set for a revival this season, softly swishing plaid skirts are shaping up to be spring’s most covetable buy. A staple of the '90s wardrobe, the nostalgic print feels fresh once more—bringing structure and playfulness to the chicest outfits of the moment.

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2. Pencil Skirts

Style Notes: Building momentum over the past few seasons, pencil skirts are poised to take off this spring. A cornerstone of the decade’s tailoring, their sleek silhouette creates a polished foundation—easy to dress down with a simple tee or elevate with a refined knit.

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3. Column Skirts

Style Notes: Arguably the coolest way to wear a maxi in 2026, the column skirt is all about clean lines and understated impact. Style with heeled sandals for a more elevated take, or lean into its effortless appeal with ballet flats for everyday wear.

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4. Sleek Miniskirts

Style Notes: Miniskirt season has officially arrived, and this time, it’s all about '90s styling. Think chunky knits and knee-high boots, this throwback two-piece look is only set to gain traction as temperatures continue to rise.

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Last week, I was caught in the rain in sandals one day and found myself sweating through unexpected sun the next, so I'm slowly coming to terms with the fact that I haven't always got spring dressing right. All 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 works for a cold morning doesn't cut it on a sticky afternoon.

Good news, then, that one thing to come out of this predicament is my newfound 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 recurring spring outfit formula: warmer and layered on top, a seasonal shoe (be it a mesh flat, a strappy sandal, a flip-flop), 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 microtrends rarely apply to skirts, as their timeless appeal spans seasons and decades, and the same simple skirt you bought a year ago can still be the foundation of dozens of new outfits today. In short, skirts never go out of style, 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 seven outfits that are worth re-creating the next time you don't know what to wear. Sorry to my faithful jeans, but we've got a new favourite go-to.

The Best Skirt Outfits 2026

1. Crewneck + Bold Skirt + Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Nailing the high/low styling mix, Barbara's vibrant red skirt could easily be worn for evening, but she keeps it casual with a simple crewneck and flip-flops. On cooler days, you can swap the sweatshirt for fine cashmere, but stick to muted colours that help make the skirt the focal point of the outfit.

2. Car Coat + Sheer Miniskirt + Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: Trench coats served us well through autumn/winter, but spring calls for something fresher. Car coats are the same light layer you can throw on over anything, but with fewer bells and whistles. They're the perfect addition to an outfit that uses layering as its point of difference, and sheer skirts look best styled with longer tops and coats that only give the suggestion of skin.

3. Oversized T-Shirt + Midi Skirt + Thong Sandals

Style Notes: Play with proportions and tuck an oversized tee into a longer skirt for an easy-to-assemble look inspired by Marilyn. For occasions that require a little more effort, swap flip-flops for heeled thong sandals; they have the same effect (and can be just as comfy), but with a little extra lift.

4. Shirt + Lace Skirt + Slingbacks

Style Notes: Now to something a little more risqué. Not for the faint-hearted, lace skirts have been gaining traction for the past 12 months, and now that the weather is warming up, expect to notice see-through skirts on a street near you. I love how Jeanette pairs hers with a baggy shirt for a little more coverage, adding sharp slingbacks for edge.

5. Wool Jacket + Long Suede Skirt + Heels

Style Notes: Until we reliably reach 20ºC, 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.

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 thanks to swapping a blazer with lapels for a collarless jacket, and trading a tailored pencil skirt for a longline column version. I'd be tempted to wear loafers if I were on my feet all day, but pack a pair of strappy sandals for your after-work plans.

7. V-Neck + Miniskirt + 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, because it doesn't need to be dressed "up" to look like you've still made an effort.

If you, like me, haven't touched your collection of miniskirts this summer and are giving far too much attention to midi and knee-length styles instead, take this as a sign to snap out of it. Miniskirts are second to none, especially in the summer, and fortunately for those of us who temporarily forgot that, Kaia Gerber just served as a well-timed reminder.

Perhaps we've all been neglecting our once-beloved miniskirts not because we don't like them anymore but because we've been styling them wrong—that is, with ankle boots. Gerber, on the other hand, is pairing hers with boots of the knee-high variety, and after seeing her miniskirt and knee-high boots, I can't remember why I ever packed away the warm-weather bottoms in the first place.

The model and actress was spotted leaving Living Room, a private membership club in Los Angeles, alongside actor Lewis Pullman, and she was wearing the perfect casual date-night outfit. Specifically, she chose a black blazer paired with a belted navy-blue miniskirt, a black shoulder bag and knee-high Larroudé boots (a style she's been wearing a lot lately). She also added glasses and what appears to be a pendant necklace on a leather string. The look defines L.A. cool and instantly shook me out of my miniskirt rut. Knee-high boots are the perfect complement to miniskirts because they take away some of the drama associated with such a short length. Her choice of non-heeled boots only adds to the winning combination.

If you agree, you're in luck. Keep scrolling to shop Gerber's date-night outfit.

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I don’t think I need to tell you that polka dots are in this year—everyone from Kate Middleton to Bella Hadid has been wearing them in the past few weeks—but alongside them I’m seeing another classic print make itself known for summer 2025, that being gingham. I’ve always had a soft spot for gingham. There’s something unmistakably nostalgic about it that transports me to a simpler time, one filled with memories of Princess Diana in her red gingham capris and getting myself ready for primary school in my very own gingham pinafore. And while the print has endured in many wardrobes since, right now I’m most interested in finding the best gingham skirt out there.

From sweeping maxis to airy minis, some of the season’s best skirts are covered in gingham. Previously, I opted for a more pared-back approach when wearing the print—often in dress form, I’d add simple sandals and perhaps a basket bag to style it. This approach enabled me to participate in this timeless pattern without stepping outside of my comfort zone and is something I’ll be emulating when it comes to wearing a gingham skirt in 2025.

The trend itself has been around for decades, enjoying popularity since the 1950s when French actress Brigitte Bardot famously wore a pink gingham dress for her 1959 wedding. Ever since, gingham has been synonymous with elevated French fashion, which has helped make it feel so timeless across the decades, during which gingham has ebbed and flowed in popularity but has never really gone out of style. The ‘90s saw the print receive a grunge-like reboot, gracing runways of designers such as Anna Sui, Vivianne Westwood and Marc Jacobs where it was paired everything from ripped tights, oversized flannels and dishevelled layers, chunky boots and smudged eyeliner. Fast forward to the 2010s and beyond and gingham skirts have made a triumphant return, embraced by cottagecore enthusiasts and classic dressers alike.

I first started coming round to gingham’s outfit-enhancing effects when I spotted fashion person Javiera in a full black and white skirt. Keeping the rest of her outfit fairly minimal—a black top and red kitten heels—she proved (if ever it was needed) that with minimal effort, a gingham skirt can look very sophisticated.

But it’s not just influencers who have fallen for the gingham skirt. From Kaia Gerber to Scarlett Johansson, celebrities of all ages have been wearing the print for some time now, and then there’s the data, which shows that searches for “gingham skirts” are up 350% on Google Trends, so it seems we’re all craving a slice of this pretty pattern.

I know I found styling this print tricky, but a few small simple steps made it much easier. An easy starting point is a plain top, especially if you pick out one of the two colours within the gingham skirt and match it to. Then, when you get more confident, you can try clashing it with other hues and perhaps prints too—those polka dots might come in handy after all.

Read on to shop my edit of the best gingham skirts of 2025, by length.

The 15 Best Gingham Skirts of 2025

Gingham Maxi Skirts

Gingham Midi Skirts

Gingham Mini Skirts

When it comes to summer dressing, finding that balance between comfort and elegance is my main priority. From simple tank tops to lightweight linen trousers, several sleek basics make their way into my summer capsule wardrobe every year. However, if there's one item that exudes easy sophistication more than anything else, it's a skirt.

Easy to dress up or down, skirts are a certified summer staple. Whether worn with suede sandals or leather flip-flops in the day, or with slingback heels for evenings out, you can get so much wear out of the right skirt.

Now, I'll be honest: I wear skirts no matter the weather or season. But I think we can all agree that they really come into their own throughout the warmer months. They're breezy enough to keep you cool in the hot weather and ensure you look put-together no matter the occasion. Not to mention, the beautiful silhouettes don't get hidden under thicker outerwear when summer comes around.

So, with sunny days finally here, I've started to think about which skirt styles I'll be buying to wear now and well into autumn. Whether you're after a slightly more trend-led silhouette for 2025 or prefer to opt for timeless classics that will stand the test of time in your wardrobe, below, I've rounded up the nine skirt styles worth investing in this season.

The Best Summer Skirts, According to a Fashion Editor

1. Classic White Poplin

Style Notes: I simply had to start with the most classic skirt style of them all: a white poplin skirt. This flowy, breezy silhouette can be worn with almost any top or blouse for an easy but polished summer look.

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2. Polka Dot

Style Notes: I'm been spotting polka-dot skirts everywhere at the moment. From pretty blouses and dresses to slinky polka-dot skirts, elegant dressers are very into this vintage-inspired print. You can't go wrong with a classic black-and-white polka dot, but there are also plenty of navy-and-cream iterations that look just as chic.

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3. Long Linen

Style Notes: Linen season is finally upon us. Lightweight, breathable and effortlessly classy, a linen skirt will serve your summer wardrobe for many years to come. Not to mention, the 100% natural fabric ensures it'll only get softer with each wear.

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4. Lace-Trim Slip

Style Notes: Lace has long been an established part of the summer uniform, but that doesn't mean it has to feel outdated for 2025. Simply opt for a lace-trim skirt as opposed to a full lace iteration, as these feel fresh for now yet will remain versatile enough to wear in the upcoming years.

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5. Tailored Mini

Style Notes: Ideal for the warmer weather, miniskirts offer breeziness and comfort without compromising style. Opt for a tailored version that you can wear with a dressy top or blazer for more formal occasions, or pair it with a simple tank or tee when you want to dress it down.

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6. Gingham

Style Notes: Gingham skirts are nothing new, making their way back into our wardrobes each summer, but their ability to make an outfit look more interesting is undeniable. And the best part? There's something for everyone, from simple black-and-white iterations to bold red prints.

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7. Sheer Lace

Style Notes: Don't be intimidated by the idea of a sheer skirt. This daring style allows you to add some character to your outfits without bearing the weight of a heavier fabric. They can also be super wearable, so long as you opt for longer silhouettes on your top half or layer them over skin-tight shorts or another skirt.

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8. Denim

Style Notes: A lot less heavy than your jeans, but with the same ability to be dressed up or down with ease, a denim skirt is the perfect balance between timeless and cool. Although this is technically a year-round staple, summer offers the perfect opportunity to wear mini and midi styles.

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9. Black Cotton

Style Notes: Black skirts bring an instant sense of elegance to any look. You might initially associate this colour with autumn or winter, but paired with classic summery items like a white blouse, this timeless style will look just as chic in the warmer months as well.

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After months of bundling up in layers and heavy coats, it feels like the warmer weather is finally here in the UK. This means it's finally time to pack away our heavy wool trousers and replace them with some lighter alternatives, and there's nothing that says "warm weather" more than a versatile skirt.

I have to admit, I never actually stopped wearing skirts, even throughout the winter season, but the idea of being able to wear my favourite styles without thicker tights underneath or having to hide them under my outerwear has made me even more excited for the current spring season.

Easy to dress up or down, skirts are the ultimate spring-through-to-autumn staple. Whether worn with a tank or tee in high summer or a chunky knit once the temperature drops, a skirt you invest in now can be worn for many seasons to follow. And with the spring season finally here, and summer just around the corner, I've started to think about the skirt styles that I'll be buying now and wearing all the way through to late autumn.

Whether you're craving a fresh and slightly more trend-led silhouette, or prefer to opt for timeless classics that make for easy styling, I've rounded up the eight best skirt styles to invest in this spring.

The Best Spring Skirts, According to a Fashion Editor

1. Linen

Style Notes: The slow but sure rise in temperature means that linen season is finally upon us. Lightweight, breathable and effortlessly elegant, a linen skirt will serve your spring/wardrobe well. Not to mention, that its all-natural fabrication ensures that this style will only get softer with each wear.

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2. Bubble-Hem

Style Notes: Don't be intimidated by the idea of a bubble hem skirt. In actual fact, they can be super wearable so long as you opt for less dramatic silhouettes like Nnenna has. The slightly more voluminous structure allows you to add some character to your outfits without bearing the weight of a heavier fabric.

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3. Pleated

Style Notes: Pleats bring an instant sense of elegance to any look. You might initially associate this skirt style with autumn or winter, but paired with simple spring basics like a tank top or lightweight cardigan, this classic design will look just as chic in the warmer months as well.

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4. Denim

Style Notes: Less heavy than jeans, but with the same ability to be dressed up and down, a denim skirt is the perfect balance between causal and cool. Although it's technically a year-round staple, spring offers the perfect opportunity to let your denim skirts act as the focal points of your outfits.

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5. White Poplin

Style Notes: We couldn't talk about spring skirts without mentioning the timeless white poplin skirt. This flowy, lightweight silhouette can be worn with almost any top or knitwear style for an easy but elegant warm-weather outfit.

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6. Broderie Anglaise

Style Notes: Broderie Anglaise has long been the established spring/summer uniform here in the UK, but that doesn't mean it has to feel drab or outdated in 2025. Simply pair this romantic skirt style with a boxier t-shirt or add a more sturdy jacket like Venetia has to contrast the feminine feel.

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7. Satin

Style Notes: Smooth, slinky satin numbers always bring a luxurious feel to an outfit. Ideal for the warmer weather, these skirts offer movement and comfort without compromising on style. Try wearing it with a matching silky top to dress the look up, or add a graphic t-shirt into the mix when you want to make the outfit more casual.

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8. Suede

Style Notes: Though often associated with the later part of the year, suede makes a strong (and very stylish) case for spring as well. Not only will it contrast beautifully against lighter linens and cotton, but knowing how unpredictable the weather in the UK can be, it's never a bad idea to invest in a chic suede skirt that you can pull out on chillier days.

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I arrived at the Who What Wear UK office this morning to the realisation that the satin miniskirt trend is taking off right now.

Styled by two of my chicest colleagues—who act as my in-office trend radar—I suspected I'd landed upon something special. Confirming my suspicions, a quick scroll through Instagram led me to the inimitably chic Laura Harrier, who has also put her weight behind the trend. So far, all signs are indicating a key spring trend.

Stepping out after the Miu Miu autumn/winter 2025 runway show—in which the actor walked a cream satin minidress and a glossy pair of pointed-toe heels down the runway for the House—Harrier slipped into a two-piece that championed my new favourite skirt trend. We've seen midi and maxi satin skirts rule city streets for a while now, but this shorter, more playful cut hasn't broken through until now.

A little less serious than the pencil skirt trend that was reinvigorated by the "office siren" aesthetic, this elegant iteration welcomes movement and sheen into an outfit, leaving it with a lighter, brighter finish that feels just as polished.

Alongside my stylish colleagues and Laura Harrier, I've noticed that a third fashion heavyweight has also adopted the trend. My favourite French influencer, Anne-Laure Mais, styled her light-cream skirt with a roomy jumper (pictured above) to weave a more casual energy into the pretty look. Whilst Harrier's Miu Miu mini isn't currently available, several compelling options have already hit the shelves.

Lightweight, comfortable and easy to wear, read on to discover my edit of the best satin miniskirts.

SHOP SATIN MINISKIRTS:

Hear me out: in my opinion, there's no better time of year to wear a miniskirt than January.

I know many think of the first month of the year as cold and lethargic, but others tackle it with a renewed sense of self-expression. Rather than falling exactly into either camp, I tend to take a fairly split approach. Trying my best to fight off the winter blues and embrace the new year with a fresh bout of energy, I always like to get a little more experimental in the coldest, darkest month by digging out some of the overlooked items in my wardrobe and trying to breathe some new life into them.

My favourite piece to revisit at this time of year is a classic miniskirt, and apparently, I'm not alone. Suddenly cropping up in the wardrobes of celebrities everywhere, this unconventional winter buy is undoubtedly having a moment right now. Yesterday, Zendaya, Kendall Jenner and Lily Allen all stepped out wearing variations of the miniskirt within hours of one another, so I think it's fair to say we're going to see a lot more short hemlines around.

A playful alternative to the heavy trousers and jeans we typically wear when temperatures are at their lowest, a chic miniskirt feels fresh in any winter rotation. Naturally, they'll leave your legs exposed, but that doesn't mean you should rule them out. Yes, you'll have to work a little harder to stay insulated, which does make the miniskirt a risky choice for winter if you don't take the proper precautions. However, with a thick—or even a thermal pair— of tights, you can comfortably embrace the playful side of your aesthetic once more.

So if, like me, you're inspired to get up to date with the new miniskirt trends that celebrities are styling right now, read on to discover the outfits I'll be copying this season.

3 CELEBRITY MINISKIRT OUTFITS TO COPY THIS SEASON

1. ZENDAYA'S PUFFBALL MINISKIRT

Style Notes: Keeping to a neutral colour palette, Zendaya elevated her all-black outfit with a wash of texture and volume. Styling a form-fitting leather jacket with sleek pointed-toe flats and Calzedonia tights (£18) the actor's statement puffball miniskirt entirely energised her outfit. A playful alternative to a pencil skirt, a puffball adds volume and intrigue.

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2. KENDALL JENNER'S BLACK MINISKIRT

Style Notes: Styling a mini in the most grown-up way, Kendall Jenner's elegant outfit consisted of a simple black miniskirt elevated by an asymmetric jacket and pointed-toe heels. Catering to the chilly climate, she paired her simple skirt with semi-sheer tights and accessorised with a black clutch.

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3. LILY ALLEN'S LEATHER MINISKIRT

Style Notes: Contrasting the sporty nature of her voluminous bomber jacket, Lily Allen side-stepped the typical leggings and jeans that one might usually pair with the casual jacket and opted for a sleek leather miniskirt instead. Polishing her outfit without overcomplicating it, Allen's look felt easy and fun for everyday wear.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST LEATHER MINISKIRTS:

In 2025, the term “skirts” has been thrown around quite a lot. “They’re a recession indicator”, posits many trend forecasters on social media, equating the reprisal of more conservative lengths to the hemline index—an economic theory suggesting skirt sizes reflect the current state of the market. Still, you need only look to the recent runways and street style set to know that most major skirt trends for 2025 are anything except modest.

London Fashion Week’s autumn/winter 2025 season in February was a display of numerous emerging and established styles, yet none more popular than the wispy pleated skirts layered fur bandeaus and leather jackets seen at Simone Rocha. (Or the styles paired with shirts painted in the style of Scottish Colourist painter Francis Cadell as modelled by Who What Wear UK cover star, Mia Regan,)

Later in the month, Chloé brought a sleazy sensuality to bottoms with diaphanous and sheer floor-grazing skirts in midnight black and slate grey styled next to silk and lace camisoles and fur coats or more structured taffeta-like pieces with built-in peplum layers. Miu Miu embraced the customs of the 1920s by dressing demure skirt shapes in monochromatic colours with woollen jackets or bold shirts accented with gilded brooches.

Holistically across the industry, there was no shortage of patterns from glistening argyle knee-length styles to the ballgown-inspired volumes seen at Saint Laurent. Off the runway, polka dot skirts have continued to prove a dominant trend, as have sequin iterations, drop-waist finishes and bubble hemlines.

I, for one, have long revered skirts as the more sophisticated and playful alternative to jeans. So, seeing the wider mainstream follow suit has indicated that not only is my instinct that skirts offer far more styling options than trousers correct, but that they’re also a gauge for who is ‘in the know’. This year, I’m levelling up my skirt game and steering away from timeless styles to shake me out of my comfort zone.

Currently on my wishlist I have a transparent bias-cut midi skirt in a delicate zebra print from cult-favourite New Zealand label Paris Georgia, a sheer organza number from Rise & Fall and a cream pleated style to pair with burgundy camisoles now we’re in the throes of spring.

But you needn’t worry about feeling all the trending skirts are more “out there”. It’s true, the most popular skirt styles of 2025 are incredibly versatile and easy to style, like the simple cuts at Dôen to the timeless fabrics at Reformation.

Most skirts on the market are classic, meaning you can confidently invest now and know you'll be on trend this season, but have a piece you'll love forever. Whether you like a high hemline or an ankle-skimming style, a super minimalist aesthetic or something a little vibrant, you'll find a skirt to suit in 2025. Scroll on to discover my predictions for the top skirt trends for the year ahead, and my pick of the best styles to tap into them. Just maybe they'll make you forget all about your jeans, too...

The 8 Top Skirt Trends for 2025

1. Minis

Style Notes: If ever there's a time to embrace the high hemline, it's in 2025. Whatever texture, pattern or colour draws your attention, you'll find there's a skirt to match. The best thing about this style is how easy it is to transition the piece depending on the season. In cool weather climates, pair with tights and knee-high boots, before swapping the shoes for ballet flats once the sun returns.

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2. Pleated

Style Notes: Yes, pleats are back. Whatever length you go for, making sure you have a pleated detail will make your skirt that bit more on trend. The aesthetics are surprisingly varied, going from Charli XCX-inspired grungy minis to the East London-approved Chopova Loewena iterations and elegant, preppy styles.

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3. Denim

Style Notes: Denim skirts continue to grow in popularity after making a comeback a few years ago. Mini or mid-length, a denim skirt is the perfect match for the very on-trend knee-high boots or can be dressed down with trainers.

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4. Brown Leather

Style Notes: Leather skirts are a classic wardrobe piece, and in 2025, I predict fashion insiders will be backing brown leather in place of the traditional black. There's something softer and altogether more luxe about chocolate or deep brown leather, and it looks especially luxurious when styled with cream pieces.

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5. Bubble Hems

Style Notes: In 2025, a good rule to follow is: the bigger, the better. Bubble skirts are going to be a big trend this year, whether in ballgown-worthy maxi form or '80s-inspired puffball minis. Pair yours with sleek heels and balance the volume with a structured top for a very cool evening look.

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6. Pencil

Style Notes: On the opposite end of the skirt spectrum is the sleek, straight silhouette of the pencil skirt. This is a minimalist's dream, and can be styled in so many ways. Lean into the elegance by styling it with ballet flats or kitten heels and a blazer, or go more casual with a slouchy knit and trainers.

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7. Embellishments

Style Notes: Sequin skirts have long held their place in fashion history. Yet, in 2025, they're no longer a party season benchwarmer, but playing the field all year round. A hint of sparkle in your look will certainly spark joy, but there is something about a delicate accent or chintzy detail that helps bolster a minimal outfit from wallflower to social butterfly. Just look at Shalom Harlow and Olivia Rodrigo's Todd Oldham's Spring/Summer 1995 look.

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8. Cotton

Style Notes: Cotton skirts have been a wardrobe staple for decades, but I noticed their rise in popularity after Prada's autumn/winter 2025 collection in which the creative directors, Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, took inspiration from the white skirts seen in nurse uniforms of the 1950s. Cotton skirts have shed these connotations in due course, with celebrities like Laura Harrier to Alexa Chung and Tracee Ellis Ross planting their own spin on the style.

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