Skirt Occasion Guide

Skirts for different occasions

Skirt Occasion Guide

Work, evening, casual and holiday -- what to wear when

OD's Designer Clothing · Knowledge Hubs

The right skirt depends as much on the occasion as on the style. This hub matches skirt shapes, lengths and fabrics to common events so you can dress for the day with confidence. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).

Everyday and work

Work and Office

Smart pencil, straight or midi skirts in firm fabrics.

What works

For work, choose a knee-length or midi pencil, straight or A-line skirt in a structured fabric like ponte, drill or tweed for a polished line.

Styling

Pair with a tucked blouse and low heels or smart flats. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).

Smart Casual

A-line or midi skirts that dress up or down easily.

What works

A midi A-line or pleated skirt reads smart-casual, working for lunches, meetings and after-work drinks alike.

Styling

Add a knit or shirt and boots or trainers.

Everyday Casual

Denim, jersey and cotton skirts for relaxed days.

What works

For everyday wear, a denim mini, jersey tube or cotton A-line is easy and comfortable while still looking put-together.

Styling

Wear with a tee or sweatshirt and trainers.

Holiday and Summer

Light maxi, tiered and viscose skirts for warm weather.

What works

On holiday, flowing maxi, tiered and viscose skirts keep you cool while packing small and moving well in the heat.

Styling

Team with sandals and a vest or bikini top.

Dressed-up occasions

Wedding Guest

Midi or maxi skirts in satin, chiffon or pleats.

What works

As a wedding guest, a pleated or bias midi or maxi skirt in satin or chiffon dresses up beautifully with a smart top.

Styling

Pair with heels and a going-out top or blouse. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).

Evening and Party

Slinky, sequinned or leather-look skirts with an edge.

What works

For evening, a bias satin, sequinned or leather-look skirt brings shine and shape for a going-out look.

Styling

Add a fitted top and heels.

Dinner and Date

A fitted midi or elegant slip-style skirt.

What works

For dinner or a date, a fitted midi or bias slip skirt strikes an easy balance between smart and relaxed.

Styling

Wear with a soft knit or camisole and boots or heels.

Daytime Occasion

Tea-length pleated or A-line skirts for daytime events.

What works

For races, christenings and garden events, a tea-length pleated or A-line skirt in a light fabric suits a daytime dress code.

Styling

Finish with a blouse, blazer and block heels.

Frequently asked questions

What skirt should I wear to the office?

A knee-length or midi pencil, straight or A-line skirt in a structured fabric like ponte, drill or tweed is the safest office choice. It gives a smart, tailored line, and you can dress it up or down with the top and shoes.

What kind of skirt suits a wedding as a guest?

A pleated or bias-cut midi or maxi skirt in satin or chiffon dresses up well for a wedding when paired with a smart top and heels. It gives an elegant, occasion-ready look without the commitment of a full dress.

What is the best skirt for a holiday?

Light, flowing maxi, tiered and viscose skirts are ideal for holidays. They keep you cool, pack down small and move easily in the heat, working over swimwear by day and with sandals and a nice top in the evening.

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