How to Style a Skirt For Your Body Type

Skirts are easily one of the most flattering and easy-to-wear items you can have in your wardrobe, but we’re always asked how best to style them! We’ve all got different body types, and the good news is skirts are incredibly versatile and can be worn effortlessly all year round. 

From structured A-line skirts for an hourglass shaped body to pretty pleated skirts for rectangle shapes, there’s a skirt for all of us. Feel utterly fabulous with our inspiration and ideas on how to style a skirt for your body type for looks that are fun and flirty or stylish and sophisticated, or a bit of both.

As the name suggests, A-line skirts look like the shape of the letter A. They’re one of the most flattering skirts out there, thanks to how they cinch in your waist and drape over your hips and thighs. A-line skirts are particularly flattering for pear-shape or hourglass figures, and we’re confident you’ll feel fabulous strutting your stuff in one!

They also come in different lengths, so you can feel comfortable whether you’re wearing a mini, midi, or maxi. While A-line skirts have structure, they’re not as figure-hugging as a pencil skirt, making them an easy alternative for those workdays or evening occasions you need to dress up for. 

And for long weekends or days out with friends, it’s simple to dress an A-line skirt down. Just pair it with a classic t-shirt in the summer or a chunky knit during the winter, et voila - you’ve got a casual yet flattering outfit to highlight the gorgeous curves of your pear-shape or hourglass figure!

Much like A-line skirts, pleated skirts are extremely popular due to how flattering they are. These skirts come with different types of pleats, each of which perfectly complements petite or rectangle figures. If you’re after a slimming effect, a stitched down pleat is your best friend thanks to laying flat across your stomach. If you’ve got a rectangle figure and would like to add fullness to your hips, look for skirts with wider accordion pleats. 

No matter your shape, pleated skirts are fabulous for accentuating your waist and flowing effortlessly over your hips and legs. For a cinched in look, tuck your t-shirt or knitwear into the skirt and finish with a slim waist belt to accentuate your shape even more. A pair of heels will do wonders for adding height and extenuating your legs, or for a little bit of edge, pair your pleated skirt with a cropped leather jacket.

Wondering what the best skirts are for your hourglass shaped body? We’ve got the answer: a pencil skirt is a must-have in your wardrobe. Tight, body-hugging, and fantastic at highlighting your natural figure, pencil skirts typically sit below the knee, making them the perfect piece for stylish office ensembles. 

But if you’re wanting to be less corporate and more party, your pencil skirt can flex to that, too! Choose a brightly coloured or embellished pencil skirt and see how simple it is to dress up for an evening on the tiles or dress down with a simple tee and statement white trainers for a smart-casual office look.

And to elongate your legs and show off your gorgeous hourglass figure even more, it’s time to put on a pair of elegant high heels. Add a classic longline coat and you’re good to go!

For more laid back summer days, look for pencil skirts in colourful floral patterns to give your outfit an easy-breezy feel. We love adding a lightweight floaty top to enhance our feminine energy or a timeless white blouse for an understated, classic look.

Contrary to the name, maxi skirts are ideal for women with petite figures. Correctly styling your maxi skirt will add height and elegance you’ll want to swish around in all season long! The lightweight, flowy material is designed to keep you cool in the summer, but perfect for layering with a cotton cardigan or denim jacket for the spring.

If you’re wondering how to style a maxi skirt, darker, block colours make you look taller with little effort. Bohemian flair is all the rage during the warmer months, and a floral maxi skirt with a flat sandal, strappy top, and chunky jewellery is a tried and tested way of achieving the desired look!

A structured midi skirt says ‘chic’ and is ideal for understated, classic looks. Add a pair of court shoes and a statement clutch bag, and you’ve got yourself an outfit to rival Audrey Hepburn! 

If you prefer a skirt with volume, pair your midi with a tight-fitting top to define your waist. For parred-back weekend looks, a plain midi skirt looks delightful paired with a patterned top and low-key accessories. When it comes to shoes, if you're opting for a pair of heels, it’s best to avoid any that have ankle straps which can clash with the hem of the skirt. Choose a classic court heel and watch as your legs lengthen instantly.