Skirt Lengths & Hemlines
Length sets a skirt's mood, from playful mini to elegant maxi. This hub explains the named lengths and hemline shapes so you can picture where a skirt will fall. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).
Named lengths
Micro Mini
A very short length sitting high on the thigh.
Where it falls
A micro mini hem sits well up the thigh, the shortest skirt length, often paired with tights or worn in summer.
Who it suits
It suits a bold, leg-lengthening evening or festival look.
Mini
A short length ending on or above mid-thigh.
Where it falls
A mini hem sits on or just above the mid-thigh, the classic short length.
Who it suits
It suits a youthful, casual or evening look and warm weather. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).
Above the Knee
A length ending just above the kneecap.
Where it falls
This hem sits a few centimetres above the knee, shorter than knee length but longer than a mini.
Who it suits
It suits smart daywear and the office where a mini would be too short.
Knee Length
A classic length ending at or just below the knee.
Where it falls
A knee-length hem sits at the middle or just below the knee, the most traditional length.
Who it suits
It suits work, weddings and most daytime events.
Midi
A length ending between the knee and the ankle.
Where it falls
A midi hem lands mid-calf, anywhere between just below the knee and above the ankle.
Who it suits
It suits an elegant, covered look for day or occasion. Browse women's skirts (/collections/womens-skirts-shorts).
Maxi
A long length reaching the ankle or floor.
Where it falls
A maxi hem falls to the ankle or brushes the floor, the longest standard length.
Who it suits
It suits summer, holiday and occasion wear.
Hemline shapes
Straight Hem
A level hem that sits at the same height all round.
What it does
A straight hem runs parallel to the floor the whole way round, giving a neat, classic finish.
Where you see it
You see it on pencil, straight and most tailored skirts.
Asymmetric Hem
A hem cut higher on one side than the other.
What it does
An asymmetric hem drops from short to long across the skirt, adding a modern, angled line.
Where you see it
You see it on statement and occasion skirts wanting movement.
High-Low Hem
A hem short at the front and longer at the back.
What it does
A high-low hem, or mullet hem, sits shorter across the front and sweeps longer behind for drama.
Where you see it
You see it on flowing maxi and occasion skirts.
Handkerchief Hem
A pointed hem formed by the corners of the fabric.
What it does
A handkerchief hem falls in soft points, as if the fabric were dropped by its centre, giving an uneven, floaty edge.
Where you see it
You see it on boho and lightweight summer skirts.
Frequently asked questions
What length skirt is best for the office?
A knee-length or midi skirt is the safest office choice, giving smart coverage without looking too formal. Pencil and straight skirts at these lengths read most professional.
What is a midi skirt length exactly?
A midi hem lands mid-calf, anywhere between just below the knee and above the ankle. It is longer than knee length but shorter than a full maxi, and is one of the most flattering everyday lengths.
What is a high-low hemline?
A high-low hem, also called a mullet hem, is cut shorter across the front and longer at the back. It shows the legs at the front while adding sweep and movement behind, common on flowing maxi skirts.