Types of skirts

What kind of skirt is right for you? That depends, of course, on what you’re looking for. Some factors which you will want to take into consideration include the kind of skirt, the colors and details of the skirt, its size and measurements, and the price.

A-line skirts

 

 At first the name might sound a bit confusing, but once you know what it is, it’s easy to remember. An a line skirt is usually about knee-length and flares out slightly, to resemble the letter A (wider at the bottom than at the top.) These skirts are flattering on many different body types and quite versatile, as they can be either casual or dressy.

 

Full skirts

 

As the name implies, these skirts are long – usually floor length, but sometimes ankle length – and roomy. Full skirts are especially good for fall and cool winter days, and many people consider them the most comfortable variety of skirt. Make sure, however, that your skirt isn’t too long for you to walk in.

 

Miniskirts

 

 Love them or hate them, miniskirts are here to stay. As the name implies, these skirts are short – generally speaking, shorter than knee length. Some skirts, often called micro minis, are even shorter. These skirts are almost always casual. When wearing miniskirts, be careful; you’ll want to make sure your shirt isn’t too low cut so the outfit does not look tacky. Keep in mind, too, that miniskirts are inappropriate for several environments, such as the workplace or highly formal events.

 

Pencil skirts

 

These skirts are more formal than some of the other types. They are usually knee-length or slightly shorter and are extremely close fitting around the hips and thighs. Pencil skirts are often worn with suits or jackets.

 

Wrap skirts

 

As the name implies, this kind of skirt wraps around itself and usually stays on with a knot tied somewhere in the fabric. Wrap skirts, often made of cotton and usually casual, are a nice offbeat option. Just make sure to tie them tight enough.

Jeans skirts

These aren’t a separate category, exactly, but are worth a separate mention. As the name implies, jeans skirts are made from denim and, as with jeans, are usually casual. You can find them in just as many kinds of denim as jeans. Some jean skirts are embellished with rhinestones, embroidery, or other accents.

 

 

Color, Pattern, and Detail

 

 You can find skirts in any color imaginable. Once again, this depends on personal preferences. Skirts in neutral colors such as white, black, gray or brown are classics particularly suited to the workplace or any other place where you want to look professional and polished. Skirts in bright colors are eye popping and sure to get attention. Patterned or printed skirts are also quite popular. In particular, look for floral prints, stripes, polka dots, geometric designs, or paisley. These, of course, are not the only patterns you can find for skirts. If you can imagine it, you can probably find it somewhere on the market.

Colors and prints aren’t the only things that set skirts apart. Just like any other item of clothing, there are lots of different details you can find on them. Here are just a few examples.

 

Pleated Skirts

Pleats can be found on many different kind of skirts, from miniskirts to longer career skirts. Some may be completely pleated, while others might have just a few small pleats at the bottom.

Tiered Skirts

Tiered skirts are an appealing casual option. While the kind of tiered skirt you’re probably most familiar with is the tiered full skirt, also known as a prairie skirt, you can find tiered knee length skirts and even miniskirts as well. Tiers help add shape to skirts, creating an attractive silhouette.

The right skirt for you

When selecting a short skirt, remember that when you sit down your skirt shortens three inches. Therefore, a skirt that stops around the knee is appropriate for the office. To pinpoint the exact length on you that is both flattering as well as professional, stand up and make a circle with your two thumbs and index fingers and locate it around your kneecap. Any length at the circle, inside the circle or lower than the circle is appropriate. A hemline that is higher than the circle is probably too short and will draw people’s attention to your legs instead of to your face where powerful eye contact occurs.

When wearing short skirts, combining them with matching stockings in semi-opaque styles gives you a more professional look; sheer skin-colored and patterned hose draw undue attention to the legs. If your legs are not an asset and short skirts do not appeal to you, you can minimize attention there by wearing longer, flowing hemlines with matching hosiery. Taller women look great in longer lengths if the skirts are not too bulky. Very full, long swirling skirts are too social or casual for the office. If you like this style, try one cut on the bias which will give you the movement without excess volume. Long pleated or semi-pleated skirts are a better option. When selecting a long, narrow skirt, walk around the store and experience how comfortable it is. One of the latest trends is a long skirt with a slit. The height of the slit should be measured the same as you do the short skirt since once you sit down, that is how high your skirt will open.