What to Wear with a Maxi Skirt

by Freya Wilcox
Woman wearing red floral maxi skirt

Wondering why we’re so excited about the resurgence of the maxi skirt? It’s all because of its versatility, how flattering it looks on any body shape, and how ridiculously comfortable all variations are to wear.

But when it comes to styling up these floaty skirts, are there lessons to learn? From spring to summer, autumn through winter, we’ve got all the inspiration you need on how to wear a maxi skirt.

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How to Model Your Maxi

Whether you’re short or tall, curvy or slim, it’s easy to think that a maxi “won’t work on me”; that it “will swamp my small frame” or “won’t sit right on my non-existent waist”. But ladies, trust us when we say that this item of clothing is suited to all shapes and sizes and will make you ooze confidence –  whether you’re strutting your stuff down the high street, or on the dance floor!

How to Wear Long Skirts: Spring/Summer

A summer staple, maxi skirts with slim belts, cropped or delicate tops and pretty sandals never go out of style. A long summer skirt will keep you cool, particularly if you go for light cotton fabrics. High-waisted examples fall effortlessly to the floor and are incredibly forgiving if you’re wanting to cover up. They also transition well from day to night.

Pastel shades, pleats and thigh high splits are a must-have for the summer – and can be found on the high street. One of our favourite maxi skirt outfit ideas is to wear a slouchy, slogan tee on top – it works amazingly with the pretty style of skirt. If you’re looking for edginess and sass (but still comfort), this is the one.

You also can’t go wrong with a floral skirt at this time of year. Pop on a basic vest and simple cardigan for those chilly evenings and let the maxi do the talking.

Spring Summer Maxi Skirts

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How to Wear Long Skirts: Autumn/Winter

Yes, maxi skirts in winter are definitely a thing. If you’re unsure what to wear with a maxi skirt at this time of year, a pastel pink skirt paired with a darker top and structured blazer will instantly transform the look for the colder seasons, and be suitable for office days too.

A black maxi skirt is also a big hit in the autumn and winter. For comfy and cosy, pair it with an oversized scarf and chunky cardigan. Go for a pretty shirt, tucked in at the waist, if you’re looking for something smarter. For date night, you can’t go wrong with a sheer shirt and edgy biker jacket.

Autumn Winter Maxi Skirts

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Maxi Skirts for Different Body Shapes

Mad for a maxi but not sure how to wear long skirts to suit your frame? Well, the fit is key with this look. Shop for your silhouette and you’ll never look back.

If you’re petite, go for less fabric with a body con style, or perhaps something sheer – a delicate option that works for both day and night. Opt for simple prints that won’t overwhelm your smaller frame.

If you’re slim, you can still rock the body con, but pleats and ruffles are also great as they will draw attention to all the right places. Bold prints may also be your bag.

Embracing those curves? Try high-waisted styles that cinch you in at the waist and then fall dramatically to the floor. This style will skim over all the bits you may want to hide and showcase the smallest part of your body perfectly. Go for bold colours or large-scale florals.

Dressing to Impress in that Long Black Skirt

The cat’s out the bag: we love long black skirt outfits. Here are three classic long skirt looks to add to your repertoire (so you never again need ask what to wear with a black maxi skirt):

Black Maxi Skirts

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An all-black power outfit packs a punch for both work and play, particularly when it’s a bit chilly. We love the structured turtle neck and leather jacket with the slightly sheer pleated maxi. Flattering and fearless.

The second outfit is a closer fitting, but still relaxed, style with an oversized top and pop of colour via the accessories. The definition of ‘smart-casual’.

Finally, the third look is smart, yet elegant. The slightly oversized quality of the shirt works really well with the black maxi skirt and is finished off beautifully with a long necklace and clutch. Channel your inner Victoria Beckham with this one!

Our Top 15 Maxi Skirts

From bright, relaxed styles to structured lace detailing, our top 15 shows the huge variety of maxi skirts on offer right now. We have particularly fallen for the black lace fitted number from Marks and Spencer, and the beautiful floral embroidery option from Needle and Thread at Net-a-Porter.

From stripes to metallic pleats, and everything in between what’s your pick of the bunch?

Boohoo Kinsley Belted Floor Sweeping Maxi
Boohoo £15
Marks and Spencer Fishtail Floral Lace Pencil Maxi Skirt
Marks and Spencer £49.50
Miss Selfridge Blue Jacquard Maxi Skirt
Miss Selfridge £65
Net-a-Porter Balenciaga Striped Cotton-Twill Wrap Skirt
Net-a-Porter £315
Net-a-porter Needle and Thread Embellished Tulle Maxi Skirt
Net-a-Porter £450
Selfridges A.L.C Bobby plisse metallic skirt
Selfridges £515
Selfridges Free People Hot Tropics Woven Maxi
Selfridges £110
ASOS Maxi Skirt in Mix and Match Print
ASOS £35
ASOS Maxi Skirt with Belt and Thigh Split
ASOS £28
ASOS Noisy May Tall Striped Button Down Maxi Skirt
ASOS £24
Boohoo Sophia Floor Sweeping Jersey Maxi Skirt
Boohoo £12
Dorothy Perkins Green and Blush Stripe Maxi Skirt
Dorothy Perkins £15
Topshop Sugar Flower Maxi Skirt
Topshop £38
Urban Outfitters BOG Collective Tulip Wrap Maxi Skirt
Urban Outfitters £49
New Look Bright Pink Side Split Maxi
New Look £7

Long Skirt Outfits: Celeb Inspiration

Some of the best dressed celebrities show us how it’s done with these four varied yet equally gorgeous maxi skirt looks. If you needed any more inspiration regarding what to wear with a maxi skirt, this is bound to spark imagination.

Victoria Beckham

The undisputed Queen of Chic. Victoria Beckham shows us that maxi skirts can certainly work during the colder months when paired with slightly oversized knits and killer boots.

Victoria Beckham blue maxi skirt oversized blue knitted jumper

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Hilary Duff

Showing us how long black skirt outfits can be styled casually and with curves, Hilary Duff totally rocks this maxi skirt look. A classic example of how to wear long skirts in autumn.

Hilary Duff black body con maxi skirt grey jumper

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Vanessa Hudgens

Now this is a holiday look. Vanessa Hudgens shows us how summer maxi skirts can be feminine and flattering. Combining it with a simple crop top, bangles and tousled waves gives the perfect boho vibe.

Vanessa Hudgens cream pleated maxi skirt blue crop top

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Emma Watson

The ‘belle’ of the ball. Fashion-forward Emma Watson shows how simple can be so effective by pairing a gorgeous grey draped maxi with a crisp white shirt, dainty accessories and elegant up do. We love!

Emma Watson grey maxi skirt white shirt

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Make that Maxi Work for You

  • All women can wear a maxi. Just follow our simple body shape tips to find the perfect style for you.
  • Wondering what shoes to wear with maxi skirt looks? Sandals and wedges are a winner in summer, whereas heavy duty biker boots look amazing in winter.
  • The best tops to wear with maxi skirts include crops, camis and laid-back tees (it’s so nice to have options!).
  • Side splits look great in the summer, and even better dressed up for an evening out (sequin maxi skirts, anyone?).
  • From a blazer to a biker – almost any jacket works with this look.

Read more great articles on women’s fashion here at alexie.

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