Three Ways to Wear the Midi Skirt

Elegant, demure and incredibly flattering, it’s no wonder the midi skirt has become a must-have for the spring and summer seasons. Despite its merits, the mid-calf hemline of this popular style can seem a little tricky to style at first. After all, is the length considered dressy or casual? Should it be worn with flats or heels? Will the in-between hem make me look frumpy? If you’ve been holding off on giving this trend a try because you’re just not sure how or where to wear it, here are three effortlessly chic ways to style the midi skirt.

Wear the midi skirt with a fitted top and waist-defining belt to the office.
(Photo: Getty Images)

To the office

With its flattering silhouette and reserved length, the midi skirt is the perfect addition to an office-friendly wardrobe. For a midi skirt that you’ll be sure to reach for again and again during the work week, opt for an A-line style in a classic print or solid hue, like the ones highlighted by Woman Within. As their collection demonstrates, a feminine floral pattern or pretty pastel shade reflects the carefree feel of the summer season, while a darker neutral hue will take you into the fall and beyond.

To balance out the volume of the midi skirt, pairing with a fitted top—tailored button-ups and structured blouses are perfect options for the office. Be sure to tuck your top in for a waist-defining effect and cinch with a belt for even more polish. To finish off the work-appropriate midi ensemble, top it with a cropped jacket or blazer and pair it with a classic pump.

The pencil midi is ideal for occasions that require a certain amount of glam like a night out on the town. (Photo: Getty Images)

Out for drinks

Although a good number of midi styles are full, sweet and ladylike (which we love), there is another mid-length option out there: the seductive, shape-skimming pencil midi. Ideal for occasions that require a certain amount of glam, the pencil midi skirt is ideal for a night out with friends. If you are on the petite side, a pencil midi skirt is even more flattering than designs with a voluminous skirt (you won’t get lost in fabric), but the style is also flattering on almost any shape (a definite good thing).

For a vibrant and eye-catching ensemble, look for a pencil midi that features embellishments and three-dimensional texture, like embroidered details or shimmery metallic accents. Then, pair with a simple, strappy blouse or sleek crop top, which, according to Cosmo, helps balance a long and boldly printed bottom.

The midi skirt can be worn or elegant or more casual affairs. (Photo: Getty Images)

To a wedding

With the onset of summer comes another just as festive season: wedding season. Between planning your travel, booking accommodations and picking out the perfect gift for the newlyweds, deciphering the celebration’s dress code is probably the last thing on your mind (and to-do list). But thanks to the midi skirt, dressing for a summer wedding is now a no-brainer.

As Refinery29 notes, the style’s length places it squarely between fancy and casual, making it a stellar choice for your various summer soirees. If the event calls for cocktail attire, pair your skirt with a solid blouse cut from luxurious silk or satin. Finish with elegant, yet subtle, jewelry and a stiletto heel. For a more casual affair, wear the midi with a sleeveless blouse or crop top that provides a peek of skin and finish with a low, chunky heel.

Article by Jessie Barrett