How to Style a Maxi Skirt

Watch out for a super stylish statement that’s making a comeback (and we couldn't be happier): the return of maxi skirt!

Many of us find the idea of wearing a long skirt a bit daunting, but you’d be surprised at how much choice you have when it comes to picking out the right skirt for you. Whatever direction you want to take, you can learn about a few of our favourite styles available to you right here. Read on to discover how to put together the perfect look.

Wearing different maxi skirt styles

When it comes to maxi skirt styles the options are endless but we have two key favourites: loose and floaty (perfect for the boho inspired look) or a classic a-line skirt with an elegant and streamlined silhouette. Both styles are equally stylish but create very different looks depending on your personal style.

A soft and floaty skirt will give a lovely feminine feel to your outfit. You can team this shape with a pair of strappy flat sandals on holiday or even some western inspired ankle boots for a casual boho style.

Meanwhile, a fitted long skirt will create a strong silhouette which can make a real statement. Heavier fabrics can add more definition to a streamlined maxi skirt and a pair of smart heels would give this look a real edge. Choose a style with an asymmetric hem, or even a dramatic slit, and team with a pair of high boots for some extra drama.

How to wear pleated maxi skirt

Pleats add great definition to a long skirt and are the perfect detail for a sophisticated outfit. Tuck in a soft, fitted blouse and tie the look together with a belt around your waist. You could also add a cropped tailored blazer to finish the look and a pair of stylish flats or ballerina pumps. For a party, tuck in a fitted t-shirt and embellish it with some statement chunky jewellery for some show stopping statement.

When picking pleats, make sure to consider carefully the fabric you want to wear. Different materials will give your outfit very diverse appearances. Also, it’s worth noting that the pleat itself gives its own shape and character to your overall look. Think about this when deciding whether to turn up the volume by including a pattern or print, or whether to keep things more minimal with a solid colour.

How to wear a leopard print maxi skirt

The great thing about pattern is that its intensity can change depending on the fabric it’s printed on. A floaty maxi skirt in a silky or chiffon fabric will still have maximum impact, but the overall appearance will be far gentler than opting for a leopard print on a heavier fabric. Choose which direction you want to go in and then have some fun complimenting this look with the right accessories.

Leopard print can also really handle accessories with a bit of drama, so feel free to go wild with a striking faux leather biker jacket, teamed with a fitted t-shirt – and if you want to go all out, add a shock of colour to contrast with the skirt’s print and make a real statement.

How to style floral maxi skirt

With floral prints it’s a good idea to first decide on how bold you want to go! A boho style print of delicate-looking wild flowers in soft pastel colours or maybe a vintage inspired floral motif on a bright background? Both will present with completely different looks.

For a boho style, add some pretty flats or ballerinas, and tuck in a relaxed but fitted cotton or chiffon blouse. Think about leaving your hair loose, or partly down, and throw over a soft cross-body bag.

Meanwhile, a strong floral print can make a great statement when teamed with a jacket or fitted t-shirt. Even a soft cosy cardigan can be thrown over a pretty floral print, as this pattern can give off a sweet vintage feel which would work very well with chunkier knits.

How to wear a black maxi skirt

When you’re going with black as the colour of your key outfit piece, you really are free to accessorise with whatever you like. If it’s an evening ensemble, you may want to stick with the black theme and choose a cropped fitted jacket or top (go ahead and add some sparkle if you want!) teamed some elegant heels, and a statement necklace or a metallic belt for some added bling.

If you like the idea of injecting pops of colour, then how about a statement t-shirt or blouse in a bold colour or strong print?

Choosing a black skirt means practically any shoe will work. A pair of metallic strappy heels or sandals would work perfectly for a glitzy party, or try a pair of heeled court shoes to be the height of elegance and sophistication at a smart work event.

Maxi skirts for different occasions

Maxi skirts are so versatile, there really are very few occasions where you couldn’t find an appropriate style.

Long skirts are an essential on a summer holiday, whether lounging by the pool or off exploring the local town, a floaty maxi skirt in a soft breathable cotton is absolutely essential. A maxi skirt can also be teamed with different accessories to either throw over a swimsuit during the day, or be dressed up with a fitted top and statement jewellery when you head off to a restaurant for dinner.

Weddings are another occasion where a maxi skirt is the perfect fit. Not only do they create a gorgeous sophisticated style that will work either at the wedding ceremony or when you hit the dancefloor later that night. Weddings are occasions where you can get creative with your style. Try different fabrics such as tulle or silk. Add a statement necklace, a sparkly clutch bag or a pretty hair piece to bring some extra drama to your look.

Also, consider whether it will be an indoor or outdoor event, and is it during the warm summer or cooler winter months? Tulle skirts can look fabulous with a faux fur shrug or bolero for gorgeous winter style, while a fitted top with capped or short sleeves and a light cropped cardigan or cotton pashmina would look stunning at an outdoor summer wedding.

Five steps to great maxi skirt style

Here are five easy go-to steps to help you show off the maxi skirt look with confidence.

Step 1: Keep t-shirts, blouses and jackets fitted and cropped. The maxi skirt is a statement, with a lot of fabric, so to balance this out keep everything else trim and tucked in.

Step 2: Choose your fabric carefully to make your maxi skirt work for a specific occasion. Soft, light, airy cottons or viscose are perfect for summer weddings, holidays and the beach. Chiffon, tulle and satin are great for adding some glitz to an evening outfit.

Step 3: Accessorize with interesting pieces; try a heavy gold tone chain over a white t-shirt or metallic strappy Greek sandals. These will add glamour to your look and create a cohesive outfit with depth and interest. Other accessories that can add to your look are belts; from delicate chain detail belts, classic slim leather belts or bolder more bohemian belts with stone embellishments.

Step 4: Finish your look with a pair of flat sandals perfect for the beach or a sunny day, whereas strappy heels dress up a maxi skirt for a wedding or event or opt for a pair of classic ballet pumps when you know you'll be on your feet for a while.

Step 5: Choose your prints wisely, especially when opting for a bold pattern clash. If you choose a strong pattern for your maxi skirt, then it’s best to stick with a plain jacket or top (even if you go bold with a strong colour on top). Teaming prints together can be a funky statement; it's about choosing prints that compliment each other rather than fight each other for attention.

Have fun trying these steps out and mixing different combinations together. Maxi skirts can feel tricky at first but there is a style out there for everyone, it’s definitely worth giving this look a go.