PSA: the mini skirt is back, and in a big way. If you thought the trend had to be left in your teens, you’d be wrong - showing skin is in and mini is the silhouette of the season.
Mini skirts took centre stage once again on the spring/summer 2024 runways, seen at the likes of Miu Miu, Gucci, Loewe and Balmain, from white micro minis to fitted denim styles and baby pink ruffled pieces.
Despite preconceptions, a mini skirt can be chic and classy. The key is to balance your pieces. Mini skirts and oversized blazers are a match made in heaven. Ditto to a mini skirt and a trench - ideal in this unpredictable weather. Wear a high neck top underneath and finish with a pair of knee-high boots.
Alternatively, style a mini skirt with an oversized bomber and trainers like Hailey Bieber for a more grungy look, or go super casual with a striped knit jumper à la Emili Sindlev.
If you have the opportunity to wear a more statement outfit, emulate Leonie Hanne's tonal pink ensemble with multiple bold pieces worn at once. She paired a neon pink mini skirt with a baby pink blazer, a pink Balenciaga Hourglass bag and matching metallic heels.
From sequin to pleated pieces, style expert Jeneé Naylor knows how to rock a mini skirt, so I got in touch with her for tips on how to style one this summer.
Mini skirt styling rules - according to Jenee
Keep occasion top of mind: When wearing a mini skirt, you want to keep the occasion top of mind. Are you going somewhere that requires a lot of standing? Walking? Will you be sitting down the majority of the time, etc? The situation at hand can determine the type and style of mini skirt so that you can remain as comfortable, and stylish, as possible.
Outfit balance matters: Mini skirts are a fun way to practice outfit balance. If your mini skirt is more on the micro mini side, you can add some balance by incorporating a longer-sleeve top for more dimension and coverage. I typically like to pair my mini skirts with a long sleeve shirt, blazer, or cardigan so that I don’t feel overly revealing. Pairing your mini skirt with a tall boot, heel, or chunky shoe can also be a fun way to add balance and coverage.
A-Line minis for the win: An A-line silhouette is the perfect way to add a fun twist to wearing a mini skirt. Due to the cut of style and how the shape flows more away from the body, A-line styles tend to be more forgiving in the hips and leave you feeling less exposed. This can be super helpful if you don’t feel comfortable wearing tight, form fitting mini skirts. Bubble and tennis skirts are the perfect styles to test out this silhouette.
Skorts are a great substitute: If the thought of wearing a mini skirt seems a bit too much for you, don’t be afraid to test out skorts as the next best option! It’s still a great way to explore the trend without stepping too far out of your comfort zone. The key is to find a skort that looks similar to a mini skirt, specifically from the front view. This way, it feels more elevated, mature, and isn’t as exposing.
The legs are still the main character: No matter how cute the mini skirt is, we can’t forget about the legs! Don’t forget to keep the legs shiny, glowing, and moisturised so that they can have their moment also. One of my favourite moisturising combinations is mixing the Josie Maran Whipped Argan Butter and the Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Oil Mist to create the perfect non-greasy, glowy finish. It keeps my skin looking moisturised all day long!
How I chose the best mini skirts
Style: From tailored mini skirts to statement sequin pieces and classic denim skirts to summer-ready gathered linen styles, there's something for everyone in this edit.
Price: Equally, you'll find pieces for a range of budgets, from £15 at M&S to £220 at Nadine Merabi.
Cut: Mini means above the knee. Only short skirts are included - no mid-way styles.
1/10
M&S Jersey Mini A-Line Skirt
Editor's note:
Marks & Spencer's jersey mini skirt is ideal for everyday. Available in both black and navy, it has a fitted, high-waisted silhouette, with added stretch for comfort.
2/10
Mango Buttoned Mini Skirt
Editor's note:
From Mango's SIEDRÉS collaboration comes this cool utility style white mini skirt. With its designer influences and silver hardware detail, it could pass for a much more expensive piece. I love it styled with platform sandals.
As Jeneé suggests, if you love a mini length but want something a little more practical, go for a skort. H&M just dropped this one for £18.99. Featuring a a high waist and a wrapover front with a fastener at one side, it's elegant and flattering. It comes in several colours and there's a matching boxy jacket available.
4/10
New Look Leopard Print Mini Skirt
Editor's note:
Tap into one of this season's biggest trends with this leopard print mini skirt from New Look. Made for minimal effort and maximum impact, throw it on with a black cami or classic white T-shirt.
5/10
& Other Stories Topstitched Denim Mini Skirt
Editor's note:
& Other Stories' denim mini skirt comes in a chic indigo shade and features duo welt pockets at the front with topstitched detailing. It fastens with a zipper at the back.
We all need a few statement pieces in our summer wardrobes. The iridescent Nikita mini skirt from Nadine Merabi has been hand-embellished with a mixture of white and gold beads and sequin fabric. Wear it with a white shirt or the matching bralet.
7/10
Abercrombie & Fitch Pleated Wrap Mini Skort
Editor's note:
If you're shopping for a pleated style, Abercrombie's mini skort is a firm favourite in my collection. Made from a soft, lightweight fabric, it has a flattering wrap cut.
Channel Jeneé in Amy Lynn's silver disc sequin mini skirt. Perfect for styling with a white shirt and strappy stilettos on a summer night out, or an equally extra bralet at a festival.
9/10
Reformation Brandy Skirt
Editor's note:
How cute is this cherry print mini skirt from Reformation? Fitted at the waist falling to a relaxed cut, it features subtle trim detail and pairs perfectly with a summer cardi.
10/10
Reiss Edie Leather Mini Skirt
Editor's note:
A leather mini skirt is so versatile through every season. This one from Reiss has a straight cut with pockets and cool seam detail. Style it with knee-high boots or loafers.
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