The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Skirts (With Styling Tips)

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Learn about different skirts & which are best for your body type
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Skirts are a timeless wardrobe staple—but when you start shopping for one, all the different options can seem a little confusing. Don’t worry, we talked to professional stylists and fashion experts to sort out everything you need to know about the different types of skirts, including popular silhouettes, lengths, and fabrics—plus which skirts are best for your body type.

Different Types of Skirts

Popular skirt silhouettes include A-line, asymmetrical, bubble, circle, draped, flared, high-waisted, layered, mermaid, pencil, pleated, and wrap. The fabric choice for a skirt plays a big part in how casual or formal it is—options like denim and cotton are great for everyday, while satin and chiffon are typically best for dressy occasions.

Section 1 of 4:

Types of Skirt Silhouettes

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  1. 1
    A-line skirt A-line skirts, sometimes called “flare skirts,” are narrower at the top and wider at the bottom, like the letter A. These are one of the most popular styles of skirts. Professional stylist Susan Kim says, “A-line skirts are timeless and effortless. You can dress them up for weekends or dress them down for more professional looks.” [1]
    • Styling tip: Professional stylist Veronica Tharmalingam recommends styling an A-line skirt with “a lace top, either sleeveless or with sleeves.” [2] Wear a shorter shirt or tuck it in to emphasize the flattering waistline of this skirt.

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Veronica Tharmalingam is a professional stylist and owner of SOS Fashion with over 10 years of experience.

    Kalee Hewlett is an image consultant and stylist with 20 years of experience helping clients build confidence and “dress for success.”

    Catherine Joubert is a professional stylist who works with clients to help them refine their style.

    Susan Kim is a professional stylist and owner of Sum+Style Co. She has 5+ of experience in the fashion industry.

  2. 2
    Asymmetrical skirt Asymmetrical skirts are cut so one side of the skirt is shorter and one side of the skirt is longer. This creates a playfully dramatic silhouette that’s perfect for showing off your legs. Because there can be a lot of skin showing with these skirts, they’re usually worn in warmer weather. [3]
    • Styling tip: Asymmetrical skirts are often made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or rayon for a casual summer look, but they can also be cut from luxe fabrics as part of an evening look.
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  3. 3
    Bell skirt Bell skirts are slightly gathered at the waistline and slightly flared at the hem. This creates a rounded shape that’s similar to a bell. They’re great when you want a feminine, retro look. [4]
    • Styling tip: Wear a fitted boatneck top and ballet flats with a bell skirt for an “off-duty dancer” look.
  4. 4
    Bubble skirt Bubble skirts (sometimes called balloon skirts) are fitted through the waist and hips, then cut very full through the legs. A band around the hem creates a bubble-like effect with the extra skirt material. [5]
    • Styling tip: Bubble skirts are commonly seen in prom dresses, but they can also be made out of casual materials like cotton or rayon. Because there’s so much volume in a bubble skirt, pair it with a fitted top, like a corset top for a formal event or a cropped or fitted tee in more casual settings.
  5. 5
    Circle skirt Circle skirts get their name from the fact that if you lay them out perfectly flat, they make a circle. They’re similar to A-line skirts, but with a little more volume at the bottom. Circle skirts usually sit right at the waist, and their flowy cut makes them a good option for camouflaging a fuller belly or hips. [6]
    • Variations: Skater skirts are a short version of the circle skirt, while swing skirts are a longer version. [7]
    • Styling tip: Circle skirts are extremely versatile, but they’re especially popular for casual wear. Wear a cropped, fitted, or tucked-in shirt to show off the nipped-in waist of a circle skirt.
  6. 6
    Cowl skirt Cowl skirts are fitted in the waist and hips, then gathered starting just below the hips. This creates a look with a lot of volume without adding a lot of bulk to the upper part of the skirt. Cowl skirts are dramatic and unique—wear them when you want to be the star of the show! They’re usually made from thicker fabrics so the cowls hold their shape, so they may be best suited for cooler weather. [8]
    • Styling tip: Cowl skirts are often paired with crop tops or tank tops to show off the unique silhouette.
  7. 7
    Draped skirt Draped skirts are often made of lightweight, flowy fabrics like silk and satin. The material is gathered and draped around the hips to create a flattering, feminine silhouette. [9]
    • Styling tip: Try pairing a draped skirt with a fitted tank for a girls’ night out, or wear a more casual draped skirt with a fitted graphic tee and sandals for a look that’s giving carefree bohemian vibes.
  8. 8
    Flared skirt Flared skirts are cut close through the waist, hips, and thighs, then flare out close to the hem. They may have darts or pleats, and they can come in any length—although mini and midi are especially popular. [10]
    • Styling tip: Flared skirts are versatile—wear them any time you want to look especially feminine. Wear a flared skirt with a button-down blouse to give off CEO vibes, or wear it with a racerback tank for a look that’s all elegance.
  9. 9
    Gathered skirt In a gathered skirt, extra fabric is added at the waist—it’s not pleated or darted, just sewn to the waistband. These skirts are usually worn knee-length or longer, allowing the extra fabric to flow gracefully. [11]
    • Styling tip: Gathered skirts are great for dressing down. Try pairing them with a fitted tee and a cute pair of sneakers for running errands or meeting a friend for lunch.
  10. 10
    Godet skirt Godet skirts have triangular panels called godets sewn into the body of the skirt. This creates a dramatic silhouette with a shape similar to an A-line skirt. Because it’s fitted at the waist and cut generously through the hem, this style is flattering on nearly everyone. [12]
    • Styling tip: Godet skirts are usually made from lightweight materials, so pair one with a tank top and strappy sandals for the perfect springtime look.
  11. 11
    Gored skirt Gored skirts are similar to godet skirts, but the panels are shaped like trapezoids instead of triangles. This adds even more room near the top of the skirt, so this is an especially good option if you’re fuller in the hips. [13]
    • Styling tip: Pair a gored skirt with a fitted sweater and a pair of knee-high boots for a fall or winter outfit that’s cozy and warm.
  12. 12
    Handkerchief skirt The hem of a handkerchief skirt has multiple points, as if several handkerchiefs were sewn together with the corners hanging down. They can be short or long, and they’re usually made from a flowy fabric like silk, jersey, or chiffon. These skirts have a casual, carefree vibe [14]
    • Styling tip: Wear a handkerchief skirt with a tank top and strappy sandals for a carefree bohemian look.
  13. 13
    High-low skirt High-low skirts are typically cut shorter in the front and longer in the back. This creates a dramatic effect that’s perfect when you want to show off your legs and have the drama of a long skirt. High-low skirts are commonly made from luxe fabrics for dramatic evening gowns, but they’re also available in more casual fabrics. [15]
    • Styling tip: Keep the rest of your outfit simple to keep the focus on the high-low effect. For instance, you might wear a solid-colored bodysuit and wedge sandals with chunky jewelry.
  14. 14
    High-waisted skirt A high-waisted skirt is cut to sit higher than your natural waist—usually just under the bust. This can be a great way to emphasis the smallest portion of your waist, and the look is flattering on nearly everyone. [16]
    • Styling tip: If you have a fuller belly, wear a high-waisted skirt in a structured fabric like tweed for extra slimming support. Pair with knee-high boots and a cropped sweater for the perfect fall outfit.
  15. 15
    Layered skirt Layered skirts are made from stacked tiers of fabric, creating lots of movement and volume. In some cases, the layers are all the same fabric, but different materials can be mixed and matched for a unique look. Ruffled skirts are layered in this way, and the strips of fabric are ruched to add a pretty touch. [17]
    • Styling tip: Stick to a fitted top to balance out the volume in the skirt.
  16. 16
    Mermaid skirt Mermaid skirts are fitted through the waist, hips, and thighs, all the way down to the knees. Just below the knees, they flare out, creating a dramatic look that’s similar to a mermaid tail. Mermaid skirts are typically worn as part of formal wear, and they may also have a train. However, they can be dressed down for a casually elegant look. [18]
    • Styling tip: Mermaid skirts are great for showing off your curves. Pair them with a bodice top, or tuck in or tie your shirt to show off your waist.
  17. 17
    Pencil skirt Pencil skirts (sometimes called tube skirts) are fitted from the waist all the way through the hem. They sometimes have darts to create a figure-skimming shape. These skirts are perfect for professional wear. [19]
    • Styling tip: Pair your pencil skirt with a flowy blouse and low heels for a look that’s balanced, elegant, and timeless.
  18. 18
    Peplum skirt Peplum skirts have an extra tier of fabric at the top, adding volume at the hips. This can help create the illusion of a narrower waist, or it can create the look of curves for someone who has narrow hips. [20]
    • Styling tip: Wear a peplum skirt with a tucked-in or cropped top so you don’t cover up the peplum.
  19. 19
    Pleated skirt Pleated skirts are sewn with folds in the fabric to create volume and movement. They’re classic and timeless, often ending about the knee. There three most common pleats for skirts are box pleats (two layers of pleats folded in opposite directions), knife pleats (pleats that are all folded in the same direction), and accordion pleats (pleats that are folded in alternating directions).
    • Styling tip: Wear a pleated skirt with a cozy sweater and boots for a feminine winter ‘fit.
  20. 20
    Sarong A sarong is a long piece of fabric that’s wrapped and tied around the waist. It’s a type of draped skirt that originated in Indonesia, but it’s become popular around the world thanks to its versatility. Sarongs often come in bright colors and patterns. [21]
    • Styling tip: Professional stylist Catherine Joubert says that “there are dozens of ways to tie a sarong. For instance, you can tie it around your waist, or you can tie it like a halter to make it look like a dress.” [22]
  21. 21
    Tutu skirt Tutu skirts, also called ballerina skirts, are made from multiple layers of tulle. They can be short, like a traditional tutu, but they’re increasingly common in a mid-calf length. These floaty, airy skirts are feminine and romantic, and they can be dressed up or down. [23]
    • Styling tip: Add a little contrast to an ultra-feminine tutu skirt with a leather jacket and ankle boots.
  22. 22
    Tulip skirt Tulip skirts are made from panels that criss-cross at the waist, creating a hemline that looks like an upside-down tulip. They usually hit at mid-knee, although they can be found in shorter and longer versions. They’re especially popular for office wear. [24]
    • Styling tip: Wear a tulip skirt with a silk or chiffon blouse and low heels for a look that can go from the boardroom to a dinner date with ease.
  23. 23
    Trumpet skirt A trumpet skirt is fitted through the waist and hips, then flares out at the thighs. It’s similar to a mermaid start, but the flare starts higher. Trumpet skirts are on the dressier side, but they can also be styled into a look that’s perfectly professional. [25]
    • Styling tip: Dress down a trumpet skirt with a sleek fitted tee, tank, or turtleneck for a look that’s feminine without being over the top. Or, tuck in a flowy blouse if you want to play up the romantic shape.
  24. 24
    Wrap skirt Wrap skirts are just what they sound like—they’re made from fabric that wraps around the waist, usually attached with ties or a button. Wrap skirts are flattering on absolutely everyone. And they’re endlessly versatile, with options ranging from bathing suit cover-ups to formal floor-length skirts. [26]
    • Styling tip: Wear a shorter or tucked-in shirt to show off the flattering wrap-around effect of these skirts. Tees are a great option for wrap skirts, which are often made from casual materials like cotton or rayon.
  25. 25
    Yoke skirt Yoke skirts have a wide strip of fabric at the top instead of a waistband. This creates a structured look that can be very flattering on most body types. The material below the yoke may be cut into a slim style, similar to a pencil skirt, or it may be pleated or cut in an A-line shape. [27]
    • Styling tip: Like other skirts designed to show off the waist, yoke skirts look best with a short, tucked-in, or tied shirt.
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Section 2 of 4:

Skirt Lengths

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  1. 1
    Micro-mini Micro-mini skirts are the shortest skirt length. They usually stop right at the upper thigh. They’re best in the summer since there’s so much skin showing. [28]
    • Denim micro-minis are popular, but they can also be made of flowy or pleated fabric.
  2. 2
    Mini Miniskirts are short skirts that hit about mid-thigh. They first appeared in the 1950s and have been a closet staple ever since. If you’re wearing a miniskirt, consider balancing it with knee-high boots or a longer shirt or jacket. [29]
  3. 3
    Knee-length Knee-length skirts can either hit just above or just below the knee. They’re a popular option for casual and professional wear.
    • Knee-length skirts are an especially good option for colorful prints, since the length allows a nice amount of the pattern to be shown, but it isn’t overwhelming like it could be on a maxi.
  4. 4
    Midi Midi skirts hit at about the middle of the calf. They’re especially popular in cooler months, when they may be made from heavier fabrics like wool or leather. [31]
  5. 5
    Maxi Maxi skirts are longer skirts that fall somewhere between the calf and ankle. They’re usually made of flowy fabrics, and they can range from casual to formal, depending on the material they’re made of. [32]
  6. 6
    Floor length Floor length skirts are designed to come down below the ankle so they just graze the floor or the top of the foot. These are especially popular for formal wear, but they’re sometimes used for casual bohemian styles as well. [34]
    • Floor length (also called full length) skirts sometimes have a train, especially for formal wear.
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Section 3 of 4:

Popular Skirt Fabrics and When to Wear Them

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  1. The fabric of a skirt plays a big role in how to wear it. The exact same cut of skirt might seem ultra-casual in a stretch jersey, office-appropriate in a heavy wool, or red-carpet ready in chiffon. Here are some of the most popular fabrics used for skirts and when to wear them:
    • Denim —Casual daytime looks year-round
    • Corduroy —Casual cool-weather wear
    • Leather— Perfect for a night out or an edgy daytime look
    • Cotton —Best for warm daytime wear
    • Rayon —Casual everyday wear; often comes in bright colors or prints
    • Tulle —Traditionally formal but today it’s often dressed down for casual streetwear
    • Satin —Dressy, formal wear
    • Chiffon —Dressy, formal wear
Section 4 of 4:

What skirts are best for your body type?

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  1. 1
    Petite If you’re on the shorter side, go for short skirts to make your legs look longer. Also, opt for sleeker styles—skirts with a lot of pleats or ruffles could be overwhelming on your smaller frame. Try skirts like:
    • Mini
    • Micro-mini
    • Short pencil
    • Handerchief
    • Midi (may fit like a maxi on shorter frames)
  2. 2
    Tall and straight If you’re tall and slim, you can either rock short skirts that show off your legs, or go for long flowy maxi skirts and sandals or flats for an effortlessly chic look. Good cuts include:
    • Short pleated
    • A-line
    • High-waisted maxi
    • Wrap
    • Pencil
    • Circle
  3. 3
    Hourglass If you’re fuller in the bust and hips with a narrower waist, choose skirt styles that emphasize your waistline. Fashion stylist Kalee Hewlett recommends wearing a belt “because they cinch in the waist, which makes you look more narrow.” [35] Good skirt styles include:
    • High-waisted
    • Pencil
    • Yoke
    • Wrap
  4. 4
    Apple If you’re fuller in the middle and with slimmer hips and thighs, choose skirts that will show off your legs and create the illusion of a waist. Above-the-knee skirts are usually best. Hewlett adds that if you have an apple shape, it’s a good idea to “avoid ruffles.” [36] Good options include:
    • Pleated
    • Wrap
    • Draped
    • High-waisted, knee-length
  5. 5
    Pear If you’re slimmer in the waist and fuller in the hips, choose skirts that highlight your waist. If you want to look smaller in your hips, choose darker colors for your skirt—but if you love your hips and thighs, feel free to show them off with brightly colored skirts! Good cuts for pear shapes include: [37]
    • A-line
    • Wrap
    • Tulip
    • Pleated
  6. 6
    Slim If you’re fairly straight from your shoulders through your thighs, focus on skirts that will define your waist and create the look of curves. And don’t be afraid to rock short skirts to show off your long legs. Try skirts like: [38]
    • Mini or micro-mini
    • A-line
    • Pleated
    • Draped
    • Wrap
    • Peplum
  7. 7
    Inverted triangle If you’re wider across your shoulders and slimmer in the hips, Hewlett recommends choosing skirts that will “make you look fuller across your hips and balance out your shoulders.” [39] Good options include:
    • Pleated
    • Mermaid
    • Trumpet
    • Tutu
    • A-line
    • Tiered
    • Yoke
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      References

      1. ↑ Susan Kim. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      2. ↑ Veronica Tharmalingam. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      3. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      4. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      5. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      6. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      7. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      8. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      9. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      1. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      2. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      3. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      4. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      5. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      6. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      7. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      8. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      9. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      10. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      11. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      12. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      13. ↑ Catherine Joubert. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      14. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      15. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      16. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      17. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      18. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-skirts/
      19. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      20. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      21. ↑ Catherine Joubert. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      22. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      23. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      24. ↑ Catherine Joubert. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      25. ↑ https://www.faverie.com/magazine/types-of-skirts/
      26. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview
      27. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview
      28. ↑ https://www.thevelvetrunway.com/best-skirts-for-your-body-shape/
      29. ↑ https://www.thevelvetrunway.com/best-skirts-for-your-body-shape/
      30. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview

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