Elevate Your Look: How To Style a Long Skirt With Confidence

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A long skirt is a versatile foundation piece that can take you from the office to a casual get-together or elegant soirée. This wardrobe-friendly garment easily transitions from winter warmth to breezy summer fits by changing shirts and accessories. With various shapes, fabrics, and colors, maxi skirts look great on everyone.

Whether you want to dress them up or down, here’s how to style long skirts with flair.

Maxi skirt styling tips

When deciding how to wear long skirts, casually or formally, consider the following:

1. Find your balance: Keep proportions in mind when pulling together a maxi skirt outfit. For instance, a tailored shirt will counterbalance a longer skirt with a fuller silhouette. But if the skirt is sleeker, you can wear a more voluminous top.
2. Define your waist: When deciding how to wear a maxi skirt, remember your waist is the focal point of this silhouette. Draw attention to it by wearing a crop top, tucking in your shirt, or wearing a funky belt.
3. Mind the fabric: Select materials that drape well and complement your shape. Lightweight materials like chiffon or jersey can create beautiful movement, while heavier fabrics can add structure.

Once you’ve mastered the long skirt outfit rules, find your own style by mixing and matching them.

What to wear with a long skirt: 8 outfit combos

Here are some of our favorite looks to help you decide what to wear with a full skirt, a body-con maxi skirt, and everything in between.

1. Tomboy tulle

Choosing between a girly outfit or something tomboyish? Combine the styles by pairing your best flowy tulle skirt with a plain yet comfortable denim shirt. Add a complimentary belt, hoop earrings, or bangles, and you’re ready for the day.

2. Long layers

If you’re not sure what to wear with maxi skirts in cooler weather, layers are the way to go. While cozy blazers are a classic choice, you could also match a flowy cardigan and fitted T-shirt with a looser skirt. 

Another option combines a cropped moto jacket, mock turtleneck top, and body-hugging black maxi skirt. Add a statement necklace or colorful scarf for a dash of personality.

3. Casual flow

‍Keep it casual by matching a pleated maxi skirt with a basic tee, using a half or full tuck at the waist. The blend of a dressy skirt and relaxed top makes the outfit stylish without being too formal. Add block-heeled sandals and a matching oversized tote bag for the perfect outfit to enjoy a patio brunch. 

4. Mix and match 

A print maxi skirt is a fun way to add visual interest to an outfit. Stick to the classics by choosing a white top or a blouse in a matching color. Or, go bold by adding your favorite band or graphic tee knotted at the waist to complement a floral maxi skirt. A crossbody bag and some fun kicks complete the outfit.

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5. Beach babe

‍Ready to catch some waves? Pair your favorite crop top or tank with a flowy, high-waisted white maxi skirt for an effortless outfit that keeps you cool. Accessorize with a wide-brimmed straw hat and a pair of low-heeled slides for a perfect day in the sunshine. If you get chilled in the evening, just toss on a light shawl.

6. Booted beauty

If the weather’s cooling down, try a high-low maxi skirt with a matching sweater and leather boots. The higher hem at the front of the skirt is perfect for showing off your footwear and comfortable enough to keep you on the go. Add some autumnal vibes with a knitted beret and structured bag. If you want to wear this in the summer, simply swap in some strappy heeled sandals, a lightweight top, and one or two long necklaces.

7. Monochrome

Create a sleek ensemble by pairing a long skirt with a bodysuit, wide belt, and stiletto pumps in the same hue. If that feels a little flat, try a bodysuit in a lighter shade with darker accessories but in the same color family. This outfit is an excellent backdrop for stunning chandelier earrings or a cuff bracelet.

8. Boho brunch

For a bohemian-chic vibe, pair a flowy, patterned maxi skirt with a fitted white tank top and a lightweight denim jacket. Complete the look with strappy sandals, layered necklaces, and a woven tote bag for a touch of functionality and rustic charm. This outfit is perfect for a weekend brunch at a trendy café followed by a stroll through a local artisan market.

Find the most fashionable maxi skirts on ThredUp

Maxi skirts are versatile and long-lasting, making them a popular wardrobe staple. If you’re ready to add one to your wardrobe, check out ThredUp. We have an extensive selection of maxi skirts and coordinating fashions from all the top brands, making it easy to thrift based on your style, size, and budget.
And if you need to make room in your closet for new pieces, you can also sell your outfits online with ThredUp. You’ll save money while helping the garment industry reduce carbon emissions by an average of 25%. 

Now that’s a breath of fresh air.

FAQs

What’s the difference between long, maxi, and midi skirts?

Long skirts are a more general category, typically referring to a piece that falls below the knee. Midi and maxi skirts both fit this definition. The primary difference between the two garments is that a midi skirt’s hemline hits between the knee and the ankle, while the maxi skirt lands between the ankle and the floor. 

Do maxi skirts look good on everyone?

Maxi skirts come in multiple styles, flattering every body shape. For petite gals, choose a high-waisted pleated maxi skirt to give the illusion of longer legs. More shapely ladies can reach for a long skirt with a defined waist to show off their curves.

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