Midi skirts and minis have their place, but there's nothing quite as understatedly elegant as a maxi skirt. The long skirt renaissance has been certified for 2024, thanks to the popularity of the white maxi skirt during the summer months - there wasn't a fashion girly who didn't own one.
Perfect for daytime wear as well as more formal occasions (even denim can be dressed up) and nights out, the maxi skirt has risen from the depths of summer holidays and beach attire to the makings of a wardrobe staple.
Perfect for daytime wear as well as more formal occasions (even denim can be dressed up) and nights out, the maxi skirt has risen from the depths of summer holidays and beach attire to the makings of a wardrobe staple.
- The denim maxi skirt: M&S Denim Split Front Maxi Skirt
- The white maxi skirt: Mint Velvet White Poplin Maxi Skirt
- The black maxi skirt: M&S Wool Maxi Skirt
- The satin maxi skirt: H&M Maxi Satin Slip Skirt
- The leopard maxi skirt: Mango Leopard Print Maxi Skirt
Before you think the maxi skirt trend of 2024 isn't for you, or think they're strictly for summer, don't rule out 2023's frontrunner, the denim maxi skirt, which is still a best buy on the likes of Marks & Spencer, ASOS and New Look. A more chic alternative to jeans, they're still selling strong.
We last saw the maxi skirt trending in the early 00s, where skirt lengths were at the extreme; it was either the tiniest nano skirt in Clueless checks and fluffy hems, or a grunge heel-grazing maxi. For 2024, it's about slipping a long skirt seamlessly into your style because they come in all colours, materials and styles.
Minimalist style seekers will adore the streamlined look of a satin maxi skirt with monochrome top, and for the romantic types, there's plenty of prairie style maxi skirts in floral prints, tiers and ruffles that would look great with a simple sweater or even sweatshirt. A denim skirt is ideal for swapping your jeans for, and wool maxi skirts are the new pencil skirts for the office.
How to style a maxi skirt for winter 2024
Maxi skirts in all shapes and colours rule for winter. Influencer Emma Jang is making me think I can translate my white summer maxi skirt into an autumnal outfit. Just add black blazer or sweater sneakers.
© InstagramAnother influencer, Renata Arbačauskaitė, is inspiring me to buy a satin maxi and wear with knitwear. It looks so chic, especially in black, and even better with chunky loafers or boots.
A maxi skirt's superpower is its versatility, as stylish with a white tee and flats, like Tamara von Nayhauss, as with heels and a structured shirt in a monochrome palette. Tap into the double denim trend by swapping your jeans for a denim maxi skirt, and wear with a denim shirt in similar wash to create your own maxi skirt co-ord. Has double denim ever looked so polished?
I also love the look of a neutral maxi skirt paired with a waistcoat, in coordinating neutral tones, or embracing my inner Carrie Bradshaw with an OTT tulle maxi skirt.
How I chose the best maxi skirts
New in: I've handpicked skirts from the new in sections, choosing the most on-trend styles and picks for autumn.
Style: There's so many variations of a long skirt that I've included something for everyone, from column skirts to floral, pleated skirts, maxi skirts with a slit and those with a fishtail skirt too.
Inclusivity: I've looked for maxi skirts that span a range of sizes and lengths, from UK 4 - 22, plus petite and taller ranges.
Price: While most of the longer skirts I've chosen are from the high street and under £75, I've found a few pricier designer options if you do want to spend more.
Shop the best maxi skirts for women
1/12
M&S Split Front Denim Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"This M&S maxi is the ideal piece to seamlessly fit into your wardrobe. The split makes it feel less bulky than a denim maxi without one, and the mid-blue wash is a classic."
2/12
NA-KD White Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"This is one of the nicest white cotton maxi skirts I've found on the high street. I love the minimalist look, making it look luxurious- yet the price is super affordable.
"For winter, I'd style it with a cream or white sweater, brown knee high boots or heels and a tee for Christmas parties. Also, how amazing does it look with a leather jacket and boots?"
3/12
M&S Black Wool Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"I think this black maxi skirt from M&S would become the piece you rely on throughout winter. The heavier fabric makes it a warm fashion item, while having structure smartens it up."
4/12
H&M Satin Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"Elegant yet understated, H&M has nailed the satin maxi skirt with this affordable buy. The black version is a cost per wear no-brainer and there's white and beige versions too."
5/12
Mango Leopard Print Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"There are lots of maxi skirts to choose from, but I highlighted this leopard satin maxi skirt as its the best version I could find - animal print is everywhere this season, so why not try it on a maxi skirt?"
6/12
MY ESSENTIAL WARDROBE Lara Slit Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"I stopped in my tracks when I saw this denim khaki maxi at John Lewis - its chic personified. Tapping into the denim skirt and autumnal colour trend, it has a handy slit to break up the colour and would be an easy addition to slot into your wardrobe, worn with Breton tops, knitwear and tees."
7/12
La Redoute Burgundy Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"Burgundy is big news for AW24 and La Redoute's full maxi skirt comes in the shade of the season. I love the idea of styling it with gingham or check, or going tonal with a burgundy sweater."
8/12
& Other Stories Floral Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"Floral maxi skirts are traditionally more boho and less structured, but & Other Stories has created this stunning floral fitted maxi skirt. I love the blurred floral print and the fluid-style of skirt, great with ballet flats or heels."
9/12
Never Fully Dressed Sequin Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"Head to Never Fully Dressed for a range of sequin maxi skirts, including this glittering number. Wear with strappy sandals and a black crew neck tee for the sort of evening outfit you've been dreaming of."
10/12
River Island Knitted Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"Nothing says autumn like knitwear, and when in maxi skirt form, its cosy and chic. This River Island skirt exudes luxury, and looks super soft to wear."
11/12
Mint Velvet Tulle Maxi Skirt
"Live out those Carrie Bradshaw tulle skirt fantasies with Mint Velvet's stunning polka dot maxi. It's incredible with layers of fabric and a cute dotty print."
12/12
Karen Millen Leather Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
"A leather maxi for chillier autumn days will bridge the gap between winter clothing and easing into spring.
"This straight fit leather maxi skirt is a beautiful shape, with Sambas, boots or sandals."
