Skirt Buying Guide
Buying the right skirt comes down to matching shape, length and fabric to your body and the occasion. This hub pulls the whole centre together into practical buying advice. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).
Choosing the shape
Choose by Body Shape
Match the silhouette to balance your proportions.
How to decide
An A-line skirt suits most shapes, a pencil flatters an hourglass, and a full or pleated skirt balances a narrower lower half.
Quick tip
When in doubt, an A-line midi is the safest all-rounder. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).
Choose by Length
Pick a length for the occasion and your height.
How to decide
Knee and midi lengths are the most versatile; minis read casual or evening, maxis suit summer and occasion wear.
Quick tip
Petite frames often suit a hem that ends at a slimmer part of the leg.
Choose by Occasion
Let the event set the shape and fabric.
How to decide
Structured pencil and A-line skirts suit work, flowing satin and pleats suit occasions, and denim and jersey suit casual days.
Quick tip
Buy the shape the occasion needs, not just the one you like most.
Getting the fit and fabric right
Choose the Fabric
Balance drape, structure, warmth and care.
How to decide
Firm fabrics like denim, drill and ponte hold shape; soft fabrics like viscose, satin and chiffon flow. Pick warmth and care to match your life.
Quick tip
Check the care label before you buy if easy washing matters. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).
Get the Waist and Hip Fit
Fit the waist and hips, then adjust length.
How to decide
Buy a skirt that fits the widest of your waist and hips comfortably; a waistband can be taken in more easily than hips let out.
Quick tip
You should be able to sit and walk without pulling.
Check the Rise
Decide where you want the skirt to sit.
How to decide
A high waist defines the middle and lengthens the legs; a mid rise is easiest to wear; a low rise reads most casual.
Quick tip
High waists pair best with tucked-in tops.
Check Lining and Quality
Look inside for linings, neat seams and secure closures.
How to decide
A lining, tidy seams, a hook above the zip and an even hem all point to a better-made skirt that will last and hang well.
Quick tip
Hold the skirt to the light to check thin fabric is lined.
Build a Skirt Capsule
A few core shapes cover most of your needs.
How to decide
A denim mini, an A-line or pleated midi and one dressier occasion skirt cover casual, smart and dressed-up wear.
Quick tip
Add colour and print around neutral core shapes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best all-round skirt to own?
An A-line or pleated midi skirt in a versatile fabric like ponte or viscose is the most useful single skirt. It flatters most shapes, works for the office, smart-casual events and dressed-up days, and pairs with almost any top and shoe.
How should a skirt fit?
A skirt should fit comfortably at the widest of your waist and hips, letting you sit and walk without pulling or gaping. The waistband can usually be taken in more easily than the hips let out, so fit the hips first, then adjust the waist and length.
How do I choose a skirt for my body shape?
An A-line skirt suits almost every shape by defining the waist and skimming the hips. A pencil flatters an hourglass, while a full or pleated skirt adds balance to a narrower lower half. Match the length to your height and the occasion.