I grew up in a household where my mom was the self-proclaimed “queen of making things twice as cool,” and in turn, I’ve taken on that same mantra. No matter how awesome something is, there’s always room for improvement. And this applies to clothes just as much as anything else.
That’s why I’m here to tell you that skirts can be made even cooler than they already are. You may think it’s not possible, but there are actually a lot of ways to take your skirt game to the next level — without having to drop your whole paycheck at the mall. The humble skirt is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own. With a few styling tweaks and tricks, you can transform it from a simple workwear staple to a statement piece fit for a night out.
1. Choose the Right Length
Walk through any office or store, and you’ll see that most women are wearing skirts that hit right above the knee or just below. Though this is always appropriate, these lengths have become so common that they’re sometimes boring.
If you want to stand out, try going shorter or longer. For example, mini-skirts make the wearer look taller and thinner (they also show off your legs). Maxi-skirts, on the other hand, make you look more covered up and professional — great for work meetings or when you want to look more conservative.
2. Pair With Flats for a Casual Effect
When it comes to buying womens skirts in Australia, heels are usually the default footwear choice, according to review-australia.com. But if you want to create a more casual effect, try pairing your skirt with flat shoes instead: loafers or slip-on sneakers are great options. You can even pair your skirt with sandals in warm weather!
3. Tuck Your Shirt in
If you’re on the short side, then this is a great way to look taller. For those of us who are lucky enough to be tall, it’s also an equally chic way to show off our waists. You might think that tucking your shirt in will make you look more conservative and boring, but if you do it with a baggy T-shirt or blouse, and pair it with chunky heels, the overall effect will be anything but boring.
4. Add a Belt
Belts are another easy way to make any outfit look more polished and put together. Plus, they’re very easy to wear and can easily hide any trouble spots on your waistline (read: love handles).
5. Add a Chunky Sweater
One of the easiest ways to dress up a skirt is to pair it with a chunky sweater like this one. This way you can wear something both comfortable and fashionable at the same time. You can also add some statement earrings for extra sparkle. The best part about this look is that it’s perfect for winter season as well as fall.
6. Wear Your Skirt with Ankle Boots
This is one of the most popular trends this year, so if you want to incorporate it in your daily wardrobe as well, here are some tips on how to style your skirt with ankle boots. For example, you can wear any kind of sweater-dress with your favorite boots and add a leather jacket for even more coolness! Another idea would be to wear a denim shirt with some striped socks, and ankle boots.
7. Wear a Skirt With a White Tee and Sneakers
While you would think that skirts are only reserved for fancy occasions, they can make even the most basic outfits feel more put together. Pairing your skirt with a plain white tee, sneakers, and some statement jewelry is an easy way to dress up your casual everyday look.
When shopping for your skirt, look for something that is flowy and lightweight so it will keep you cool in summertime temperatures. To add some dimension to your outfit, opt for shoes in a bold color like neon pink or yellow. Vanessa Hudgens shows off her eclectic style by pairing a long-sleeve orange top with a black leather skirt and white sneakers. She tucks her top into the waistband of her skirt for an edgy look that would be perfect for fall.
8. Chic Details
Whether it’s a pleated skirt or a statement print, the details on your skirt can make or break an outfit. Choose fabrics that look high quality and prints that feel fresh for effortless style and appeal.
9. Take Your Look Up a Notch
If you’re looking for extra styling points, try pairing your favorite skirt with something unexpected. We love how this celebrity paired her leather pencil skirt with sneakers instead of heels to give her look an easygoing vibe.
10. Layer a Long Skirt Over Pants
If you’re wearing a statement skirt, try layering it over pants instead of tights or leggings. It’s a great way to add length to shorter skirts, or create an interesting silhouette.
11. Don’t Forget About Tights
Thick black tights are super practical to wear under skirts when the weather gets colder, but they also add texture and visual interest to an outfit if they’re patterned or sheer with a fun print underneath. Layer two skirts together — one short, one long — to achieve the perfect high-low hemline.
12. Pick a Cool Print
If you love a good print, then this is the trend for you. Try a printed skirt with a solid top to let the pattern stand out or go bold with a matching crop top. Look for styles in plaid, animal print or graphic designs that are perfect for day or night.
13. Pair It With White Boots
White boots have been all over the runways this season and they’re perfect with a boho mini skirt or denim style. Match your makeup to the color of your boots and let them be the star of the show.
14. Statement Skirt
You know those days when you want to be comfortable but still feel put-together? This is the solution. The elastic waistband and soft knit fabric make this skirt perfect for lounging around the house, while the ruffles and textured fabric make it ideal for leaving the house. Plus, it even has pockets.
15. Pleated Midi Skirt
A knee-length pleated skirt should be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe — it’s just so versatile! This one can be dressed up or down depending on how you style it and works in any season. We’d pair it with heels for a special occasion or a graphic tee for everyday wear.
