17 Types Of Skirts
Your one-stop guide into the world of skirt designs and how to style them into outfits.
Grace Thomas is the founder and lead stylist of Builtgracefully, a personal wardrobe styling company based in Portland, Oregon. She has over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry in buying, merchandising, and styling. Her services include event styling, closet edits, and personal shopping for men and women.
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Pratima Ati is a postgraduate in International Business from Staffordshire University. After working in Marketing and Business Development for a few years, she jumped ship to pursue two things she loved – fashion and writing.
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Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
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If you are on the lookout for different types of skirts, then you will be glad to know that there are many options out there. This implies that your options for trying out different looks wearing skirts are endless too. To this end, today, in this article, we are going to introduce you to different types of skirts and help you rock them all better. So, without further ado, go ahead and give this piece a read. Come on!
Ace The Look- Belt: Style your long skirts with wide belts and short skirts with thin belts to accentuate your waistline.
- Shoes: Pair broomstick and pleated skirts with open-toed sandals or heels and boots and flared and mini skirts with ankle or knee-high boots.
- Height: Petite women should opt for mini skirts, skater skirts, and high-waisted A-line skirts to make their legs look slender, while long-stature women should opt for long, midi, or maxi skirts.
- Tops: Pair your skater skirt with a crop top and your high-waisted pencil midi skirt with a deep V-neck long-sleeve blouse or a crop bra top with thin straps.
In This Article
17 Different Types Of Skirts Patterns
1. Flare Skirts
A flared skirt is very similar to an A-line skirt, except that it is mostly short and flares out a lot more than your A-line. As it moves down, it circles out and covers your bottom. When you are styling a flared skirt, wear a fitted top so that you don’t create a very wide silhouette.
2. Broomstick Skirt
Broomstick skirts were a big hit in the 70s and 80s. But, just like everything else from that era, they are making a comeback, especially for people who love anything hippie or boho. So, if you are in the mood for a Bohemian adventure, go on and pick up this crinkled beauty. It’s easy to style and sets the right mood.
Trivia3. Mini Skirts
One skirt that remains dear to most generations is the mini skirt. Just as the name goes, it stops halfway down your thighs. It is usually cut narrow and straight, but can also be a-line or fitted. It comes in a variety of fabrics, but leather, rexine, and denim go well with this style.
4. Pleated Skirts
In this style, the fabric around the waist is gathered and sewn to create pleats. Pleated skirts usually come in lighter fabrics like organza, silk, and satin because thicker fabrics can make the pleats balloon out and give them an awkward shape. When paired with tops in complementary colors, patterns, and a plain texture, pleated skirt outfits make for elegant and chic looks.
5. Maxi Skirts
Maxi skirts are long and can be high, mid, or low-waisted. They are sleek and reach down to your ankles. They are a little different from your long skirts and look great on tall women. They are, of course, a summer staple. If you wonder how to wear a maxi skirt, opt for loose crops or inserted-shirt looks for a balanced ensemble.
Quick Tip6. Long Skirt
Long skirts are similar to maxi skirts. However, they are not narrow or cut straight like maxis and they usually hit the floor. They are just long and come in all kinds of patterns and fabrics.
7. A-Line Skirt
A-line skirts are perfect for parties as they are quite elegant. They are usually knee-length but come in all sizes. This is why this is one of the most sought-after patterns. While the waistline remains straight, the hemline broadens a little as it moves down.
8. Tutu Skirts
Tutu skirts were originally a ballet costume and a childhood birthday dress for most of us. Even though they are still worn in those settings, designers have also found ways to wear them just like any other skirts. They may not be an everyday staple, but they’re sure a great party outfit idea.
9. Skater Skirts
Skater skirts are short, cute, and chic. They are a fun mix of A-line and circle skirts, except they are shorter. Skater skirts are not heavy-duty and have a very informal vibe to them because of the light fabrics used to make them. Skater skirt outfits are perfect for an outing with friends, fun dates, or casual day parties.
10. Ball Gown Skirt
A ball gown skirt balloons out from below your waist and goes down to your feet. However, it’s the ankle length and asymmetrical ball gown skirts that are trending right now.
11. Wrap Around Skirts
Wrap or wrap around skirts come without elastic around the waistband and are very much like a sarong. You just have to wrap them around yourself and tie on one side. They are great for summer days at the beach.
12. Hoop Skirts
Hoop skirts originated in the Victorian times and literally have a hoop stitched around the hemline at the bottom. They were a traditional attire for women in the olden times and had two-three layers stitched into them, finished off with a lace overlay.
13. Ballet Skirt
The ballet skirt is not very different from your tutu skirt. It is just shorter and more circular. Ballet skirts usually come in pastels and muted undertones. However, you can find them in all sorts of colors in the market if you just look around a little bit. Do note that ballet skirts are usually not styled for everyday looks.
14. Pencil Skirt
Pencil skirts are slim and straight and usually taper as they go down. You can wear them formally and informally – depending on the fabric and pattern of the skirt. Whether you want to attend an important office conference or show up for a family house party, you can rest assured there is a suitable pencil skirt outfit idea out there for you.
15. High Waisted Skirt
High-waisted skirts can be a combination of different styles of skirts. Unlike other skirts, the waistband sits above your belly button, and that little detail makes a world of difference to the outfit. A-line, skater, denim, pencil, and mini skirts with a high-waist look impeccably stylish.
16. Asymmetrical Skirt
An asymmetrical skirt is a skirt with an uneven hemline. It can be short in the front and longer on the back. It can also be shorter at the side or have no uniformity at all. It gives a very casual vibe to an outfit and can be styled in various different ways.
17. Box Pleat Skirt
A box pleat skirt consists of inverted pleats sewn at the waist, which gives it a box-like structure. The skirt flatters almost all body types and can be worn on formal or casual occasions. It is a classic skirt that can be made with fabrics such as cotton, wool, and polyester.
As easy as skirts are to style and wear, there are some things you need to consider before deciding on an outfit. For instance, you need to make sure that the style of your skirt flatters your body type. Listed below are a few things you need to keep in mind in this regard.
Types Of Skirts For Different Body Types
1. Pear-Shaped
Pear-shaped bodies are so in right now. Thanks to the Kardashian sisters, the world is embracing big butts, and people are flaunting them like nobody’s business. So, wear skirts that enhance it for you. High-waisted, pencil and bodycon skirts will look good on you. If you don’t like that idea, wear structured tops and skirts made of light fabrics to create a balance.
2. Apple-Shaped
Apple body types are quite similar to pear-shaped bodies, except that your shoulders are slightly broader and proportionate to your lower body. A-line, maxi, wrap-around, and pleated skirts will look lovely on you. Let the tops be simple and without too much overlay.
3. Hourglass
If you are an hourglass-figured diva, you know that just about anything looks supremely stylish on you. Having said that, pencil skirts look exceptionally good on you. If you want to add some flare below your hips, A-line and skater skirts are some great options.
4. Rectangle
Maxi or pleated skirts are great for this body type. Since your upper and lower body is almost proportional, you need skirts that make you look curvaceous. If you want to create an illusion of curves, go with tops that are relatively light and breezy, especially when you are opting for flared patterns.
Fashion Stylist, Grace Thomas advises, “Women with a rectangle body shape should accentuate their waist rather than wear a straight cut. Opt for a wrap skirt or high-waisted skirt to make your body have a more hourglass effect.”
5. Petite
Petite body frames, just like the hourglass, are easy to work with. However, the trick is to add a little definition to accentuate your curves. Pleated, A-line, and flared skirts will do just that. Make sure to avoid skirts that stop at your calves.
Infographic: 5 Trendy Skirts For Creating Stunning Looks
Skirts are absolute wardrobe essentials! These versatile garments can be styled in numerous ways and paired with anything. Whether it’s a party or an interview, you can create the perfect look by choosing a skirt that reflects your personality. Skirts are available in multiple styles, but a few of them are a must-have for all fashionistas out there. Take a look at the infographic below and learn about the 5 trendiest skirts to enhance your glam quotient. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
With the various types of skirts detailed above, you can choose one that best suits your shape, style preferences, and occasion. Whether it’s a beach wedding, an interview, or a party theme, the right skirt type and length help you keep it fun while not seeming too loud in the face. Choose one from the many options mentioned above to hide any bulges and highlight your best curves with elan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a midi skirt?
The length of a midi skirt falls to your mid-calf, i.e., halfway between your knees and ankles. These skirts flatter all body shapes.
What is a tulip skirt?
Tulip skirts come in short, midi, and maxi lengths. A tulip skirt can be any skirt with multilayer paneling and an inverted tulip shape. These skirts have a cinched waist, a tapered hemline, and additional fabric around the hips. Girls with hourglass and pear bodies will look beautiful in tulip skirts.
What is a bell skirt?
As its name suggests, the bell-shaped skirt has a bell-like design that spreads outward from the waist before falling straight down to the knee. It is typically made from a thicker material that retains its shape well.
What is a peplum skirt?
A peplum skirt has a gathered and flared piece of cloth that hangs from the waist. It draws focus to your hips and waistline.
What is a cowl skirt?
A cowl skirt has draped folds hanging down on one or both sides, giving the appearance of wider hips. The waist is secured with modest, self-covered buttons and internal press studs.
What are tiered skirts?
Tiered skirts, also known as layered skirts, are made of multiple layers or tiers of fabric, stacked one on top of the other. Each tier is typically gathered or pleated at the waist, creating a flowing and voluminous effect. The tiers can be of varying lengths and widths, and can be made from different fabrics, colors, or patterns.
What are ruffled skirts?
Ruffled skirts are skirts that feature frilly, decorative layers of fabric that create a wavy or rippled effect. These ruffles can be found on the hemline, around the waistband, or throughout the entire skirt. The ruffles can be made of the same fabric as the skirt or a contrasting material, adding visual interest and texture to the garment.
What are mermaid skirts?
Mermaid skirts, also called trumpet skirts, are a type of fitted skirt that flares out dramatically at the bottom, resembling the shape of a mermaid’s tail. The skirt typically hugs the hips and thighs closely, then flares out at or below the knee. This creates a very dramatic and glamorous look that is often associated with formal events and red carpet occasions.
Key Takeaways
- Mini skirts are characterized by a straight cut, reaching till the middle of the thighs, and are available in different fabrics, like denim and leather.
- Fabric is gathered around the waist to create multiple pleats, which is what marks a pleated skirt, and it is often available in lightweight fabrics like silk and satin.
- Long skirts are similar to maxi skirts but reach till the ankles and are not narrow in shape.
- Ball gown skirts are cinched at the waist and are fuller from there onwards, reaching till the feet.
Illustration: Types Of Skirts
Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team
From A-line skirts to wrap skirts, you can explore gorgeous skirt types along with their styling tips. To know how to rock your skirt outfit, watch the video till the end.
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