We Found the 20 Best Midi Skirts You’ll Reach for Again and Again
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Silky slips, flouncy A-lines, and more.
InStyle / Alli Waataja
Thanks to the ongoing Y2K renaissance, skirt trends of recent seasons have seen hemlines reach both ends of the spectrum, from the itty bitty micro-mini to the grunge-inspired maxi skirt. But if there’s one style that transcends trends, it’s the midi skirt. Timeless and effortless, its length is the perfect in-between, a reliable option that can easily be dressed up or down and worn year-round.
However, the term “midi skirt” is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide variety of shapes, silhouettes, and lengths, so long as they hit somewhere below the knee and above the ankle. Slinky silk slips can count as one, as can flared A-line styles. A long, tailored pencil skirt? Yup, also a midi. All that’s to say, finding the one that suits both your sartorial needs and body type means navigating the ever-vast midi skirt market. To narrow it down to only the best in show, we consulted a team of stylists and tastemakers to share their insights and picks.
Best Overall: Reformation Zoe Skirt
Why We Love It: This Reformation midi skirt is easy, effortless, and universally flattering, which is why we’re ranking it at the very top of this list. Its simple A-line silhouette not only complements all body types, but it’s also a timeless silhouette, earning itself a long-term spot at the front of our closets. The drapey crepe fabric doesn’t lean too casual or formal, making it suitable for a range of sartorial situations. More importantly, its inclusive size range includes extended and petite sizing. Have your pick from a variety of colorways, from solid black to a range of pretty florals—you really can’t go wrong with whichever you choose. Just keep in mind that it’s dry-clean-only and can’t simply be thrown in the wash.
Material: Viscose, rayon | Size: 0–24, 0P–12P
Best Budget: H&M Coated Skirt
Why We Love It: As the long denim skirt continues to trend amongst the fashion set, we’re loving this black midi iteration from H&M, which features a distressed, wax-like coating, lending it an edgier feel than its classic blue denim counterparts. Its mid-rise waist and front slit make it a comfortable, easy piece for every day, and because it has a leather-like finish, it can just as easily pair with a night-out top as it can a basic cotton tee. Take the price point into consideration, and it’s pretty much a no-brainer.
Material: Polyester, polyurethane | Size: 0–12
Best Pleated: COS Asymmetric Pleated Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: Here, Cos took the pleated midi skirt—a timeless style that transcends the ever-changing trend cycle—and added an asymmetrical hemline to make things a bit more interesting. Complete with sunray pleats for a flared effect and fluid movement, it’s a not-so-basic basic you’ll wear repeatedly, especially given its neutral black and terracotta colorways. Pair it with a chunky sandal in the summer or tights and boots all throughout the cold-weather months, as this skirt has plenty of longevity year-round.
Material: Polyester | Size: 2–14
Best Sequin: Madewell Sequin Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: Sequins aren’t just reserved for the holiday party circuit, and this midi from Madewell proves it. Designed with clear sequins instead of classic metallic, this glamorous yet pared-down skirt is just as fabulous a choice for summertime soirées as it is for ringing in the new year. Sequins aside, we also appreciate the back slit, which allows for easy movement and a comfortable fit. This style does run small, however, so you may want to consider sizing up.
Material: Polyester | Size: 00–16
Best Splurge: The Row Alumo Scuba Midi Skirt
Why We Love: If you’re going to spend a pretty penny on a skirt, make it something that’s equally as versatile as it is high quality, ensuring you get plenty of wear and bang for your buck. This pencil skirt from The Row is just that, deeming it worth its upper-triple-digit price tag—which, coming from a brand known for masterful tailoring and luxurious fabrics, isn’t that surprising. The simple pull-on style is designed to fit slim at the hips with a slightly flared hemline, which holds its shape thanks to a sturdy, non-stretch scuba material. It’s an elegant option that’s bound to work with just about any combination of tops and shoes you already own. Keep in mind that it runs large, so if you want it to fit more high-rise than low-slung, consider sizing down.
Material: Nylon, elastane; cotton lining | Size: XS–XL
Best Faux Leather: Babaton Oversee Maxi Skirt
Why We Love It: As many brands move towards using vegan fabrics over animal-derived materials, there’s truly no shortage of faux leather midi skirts to choose from—but not all faux leathers are created equal. Aritzia’s Babaton label nailed it with theirs, a buttery-soft fabric with a great drape that feels just like the real thing. We’re particularly fond of this asymmetrical wrap skirt, which adds an interesting twist to the classic pencil skirt.
Material: Polyurethane shell; polyester interior | Size: 00–12
Best Silk: Eileen Fisher Pleated Silk Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: Ever-versatile, a silk skirt is one of those staple pieces you’ll hold onto forever, fitting seamlessly into dressy date night ensembles to casual brunch fits alike. Eileen Fisher put their spin on the classic style, bringing trendy accordion micro pleats into the equation for dimension and texture. Couple that with its super-comfy elastic waistline, and you’ll never want to take it off. It’s important to note that this style runs large, so you may want to size down if you want something more fitted and less low-slung.
Material: Silk | Size: XXS–XL
Best Floral: Anthropologie The Tilda Slip Skirt
Why We Love It: A floral midi skirt is a fail-safe option for when you can’t decide what to wear, a non-basic essential we think everyone should have in their closet. This slinky slip from Anthropologie is perfect for spring and summer; its oversized floral motif is more neutral than busy, pairing well with a tank and sneakers or heels and a drapey blouse alike. More importantly, it boasts a super-inclusive size offering that includes petite and plus sizing. And if florals aren’t your thing, it comes in a slew of solids, too.
Material: Viscose | Size: XXS–XXL, 1X–3X, XXS–XXL Petite
Best Cargo: Marc Jacobs The Cargo Skirt
Why We Love It: The Y2K revival has brought some pretty polarizing style choices back into the spotlight—namely, cargo pants and, more recently, the cargo skirt. Straight out of the early aughts, this Marc Jacobs style is not for the faint of heart: It’s crafted from structured taffeta, features drawstring side ruching that allows its wearer to adjust the length and is designed with all the pockets one can dream of (six total). It’s arguably not the easiest thing to style, so we suggest keeping the rest of your look simple—think baby tees and minimalist flats or sneakers.
Material: Polyester, nylon | Size: 00–12
Best Denim: Still Here Panama Skirt
Why We Love It: As previously mentioned, the long denim skirt has been majorly popular as of late, so if you still haven’t tried it, may we suggest this simple style from the buzzy denim label Still Here? Light wash with traditional five-pocket styling, this skirt is an uncomplicated, no-fuss wardrobe essential you can easily swap in for a pair of jeans. It’s nice and structured, made with heavyweight, non-stretch denim for a flattering fit, and hits at or just above the ankle, depending on your height. While that may sound restricting, fear not: It features split side hems and a knee-high front slit that ensure it’s comfortable and allows for ease of movement.
Material: Cotton | Size: 23–32
Best Summer: Munthe Tiered Organic Cotton Skirt
Why We Love It: Let’s face it, summer’s heat and humidity can make getting dressed a daily dilemma, which is why we love this calf-grazing midi skirt from Copenhagen-based label Munthe. The airy, flouncy design is constructed with breathable cotton—100 percent organic, at that—to keep you cool all day long, while white goes with, well, literally everything. Plus…pockets! We also appreciate that environmental consciousness, responsibility, and transparency are at the core of the brand, so you can look good and feel good about what you’re wearing.
Material: Cotton | Size: DK32–DK44
Best Tailored: Dalood Mora Skirt
Why We Love It: This midi skirt from Georgian label Dalood toes the line between workwear and playwear, thanks to being crafted from a lightweight viscose in an unexpected shade of white. Its classic straight cut, masterful tailoring, and structured silhouette deem it polished enough to wear to the office, but it can just as easily be styled for a night out—just ask Tata Kartvelishvili, CEO and founder of PR agency Tata PR and TATA LA shop. “It’s designed to sit on the waist and falls to an ankle-grazing length, while front pleating details make it more elevated and chic,” she says. Also nice? It has pockets, which is always a much-appreciated detail—we’d just love to see it available in a more inclusive size range.
Material: Viscose | Size: S–L
Most Versatile: Vince Satin Slip Skirt
Why We Love It: Slip skirts are one of those universally flattering, goes-with-anything pieces that serve as the bread and butter of our wardrobes. This slinky style from Vince is a solid foundation for whatever look or vibe you’re going for, especially given its neutral color offering (off-white, black, and navy). Hitting just below the knee and designed with a comfy elastic waist, it’s an easy, everyday style that can lean casual or dressy, depending on how you style it.
Material: Acetate | Size: XXS–XL
Best Leopard-Printed: Ganni Leopard Pleated Georgette Midi Flounce Skirt
Why We Love It: Never underestimate the power of the leopard midi skirt—remember when a certain slip iteration had New York City in such a chokehold that it sparked an entire Instagram account dedicated to its countless sightings? Five years later, we’re still fans of this wardrobe staple (leopard is neutral, right?), especially when it’s reimagined in interesting hemlines and cuts like this flouncy style from Ganni. Featuring a ruffled waterfall hemline, it may feel fancy, but it’s designed with comfy features like a high slit and an elasticated waist for non-fussy wear. Bonus points for its recycled polyester construction that’s lightweight enough to wear on hot summer days but easy to layer over a pair of warm tights during winter.
Material: Recycled polyester | Size: 0–14
Best Linen: Mango Wrap Front Linen Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: When summer and its subsequent high temperatures and humidity index come around, linen is one of the best breathable fabrics we can reach for on days we’d rather wear as little clothing as possible (which, especially in a work setting, isn’t always possible). Consider this breezy wrap skirt from Mango, a polished style that’s supremely comfortable thanks to an elastic waistline. Ever-versatile, it doubles as a lightweight and office-appropriate companion to your workwear blouses and a beach-day coverup to wear over your bikini.
Material: Linen | Size: XXS–XXL, 1X–4X (black only)
Best Full: Farm Rio Multicolor Waves Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: Dopamine in skirt form, this trippy style from Farm Rio makes a big statement. Covered in wavy rainbow stripes with an equally wavy contrast trim, it’s guaranteed to infuse some fun into any of your warm-weather looks—even more so if you pair it with the matching crop top. Because it’s crafted in breathable cotton, you won’t feel bogged down (or overheated) by the skirt’s fuller silhouette, plus the A-line cut is a universally flattering pick for all body types.
Material: Cotton | Size: XS–XL
Best Black: Rohé Wide Poplin Skirt
Why We Love It: A black midi skirt is a reliable wardrobe standby, especially when cut in an easy, versatile silhouette. This pleat-front A-line style from Rohé is just that, a goes-with-anything style you can dress up or down, and one will flatter most body types. Constructed in sturdy, midweight cotton, it’s also appropriate for year-round wear—style it with flats and sandals during summer or over tights and knee-high boots during colder months.
Material: Cotton | Size: FR34–FR42
Best Asymmetrical: & Other Stories Belted Asymmetric Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: Asymmetrical hemlines are an easy way to make any look more interesting, and we love the utilitarian feel of this wrap skirt from & Other Stories. Designed with an adjustable D-ring belt and a cargo-inspired pocket, it’s a great way to tip-toe into the cargo pants trend if you’re not quite ready to commit. Overall, it’s a versatile piece with a modern, cool feel that would look great with baby tees or silk camis alike.
Material: Hemp, cotton | Size: 0–12
Best Knit: Lauren Ralph Lauren Rib Knit Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: This ribbed knit midi from Lauren Ralph Lauren is the perfect solution for when we need to venture out of the house and look put together but still crave the comfort of our favorite indoor sweats. The pencil silhouette with an extended side slit is a sleek style fit for both work and after-work drinks, but the pull-on, elasticized waistband means it’s a comfortable choice for running errands, too. Keep in mind that even though it’s knit, it’s quite light and airy, making it a better option for warmer weather than cold.
Material: Polyester, elastane | Size: XXS–XXL
Best Fringe: Cult Gaia Tonisha Asymmetric Fringed Ribbed-Knit Midi Skirt
Why We Love It: This Cult Gaia midi is ready for your upcoming vacation plans! Crafted from a ribbed, tactile knit that’s both curve-hugging and supremely comfortable (and easy to pack), the asymmetrical hemline is finished with a fringed trim for a statement-making look. While you can make it a full look with the matching fringe top, we think it’s best paired with color—think a silky tropical-print cami or even a bold bathing suit top.
Material: Viscose, nylon | Size: XXS–XL
What to Keep in Mind
Silhouette: Since “midi skirt” encompasses everything from flared and A-line to fitted, bodycon styles, it’s important to keep the silhouette in mind when shopping for one—and understanding your body type can play a role in what silhouette you feel the most confident in. A-line styles are an all-around universally flattering silhouette, says stylist Michaela Leitz, adding that they’re especially flattering for those who are heavier on top. “High-waisted styles are great for those who are more bottom-heavy, as they highlight the narrowest part of your waist while flowing over your hips and thighs,” she says. The sleekness of a pencil skirt helps to highlight curves, while belted and pleated styles can help create the illusion of curves for straight body shapes, she adds.
Length: There are no set guidelines on how long or where exactly on the leg a midi skirt should hit, but rather a general range (more on that below), meaning there are various lengths on the market. While it’s truly up to personal preference, Leitz and Kartvelishvili both suggest choosing a length based on your height for the most flattering fit. “If you’re tall, you can experiment with longer midi lengths that hit at the calf or even the ankle, while skirts that hit just below the knee can elongate petite silhouettes,” says Leitz.
Fabric: Personal stylist Desiree Miranda recommends opting for textiles that are versatile and comfortable. “It shouldn’t be too sheer or thin of a fabric, and you’ll want it to double from day to night,” she says. “High-quality silk blends are usually my go-to, as well as anything with elastane, which will give the skirt some stretch for added comfort.” For summer months, Leitz recommends cotton or linen, while velvet or satin will have a more luxurious hand feel. “The fabric affects the movement and flow of the skirt, so choose according to the look and feel you’re aiming for,” she adds.
Occasion: Finally, consider what occasion you plan to wear the skirt for. “Knowing where you’ll wear it will guide you to the right fabrics, colors, and brands to shop,” says Kartvelishvili. A fully sequined skirt will surely be a hit at your birthday party, but you’ll want something comfier—think soft knits or a silk slip with an elastic waistline—for running errands or grabbing lunch with friends. Of course, you can’t go wrong with something versatile that can be dressed up or down, apt for a range of occasions, adds Miranda.
Your Questions, Answered
How long is a midi skirt?
“A true midi skirt typically hits at mid-calf, hence the name ‘midi,’” explains Leitz. However, nowadays, “midi skirt” is more of a blanket term for any skirt that hits somewhere below the knee and above—even if just skimming—the ankle. “The key is that they’re longer than knee-length but shorter than full-length,” she says. All that’s to say, it’s important to figure out the length of the skirt and then consider your height before making a purchase. “Remember: everyone’s body is different, so a skirt that hits mid-calf on one person might be more of a maxi skirt on someone else,” she adds. Kartvelishvili recommends getting your midi skirts tailored to fit your needs and ensure they hit the most flattering part of your leg.
How do you style a midi skirt?
There are plenty of ways to wear a midi skirt, but the long-ish length can sometimes make it a tricky piece to style in terms of proportions—especially when it comes to footwear. “I don’t suggest wearing shorter booties with midi skirts, as this will shrink you and make your legs appear stubbier and wider than they are, " says Miranda. Instead, Kartvelishvili recommends opting for shoe styles that elongate the leg, such as stiletto heels, pointed-toe flats, or under-the-knee boots—essentially, anything that won’t cut off your leg. Of course, the silhouette and material of the skirt will also determine what you ultimately pair with it, whether you dress it up with a silky, strappy top and heeled mules, a favorite look of Leitz, or pare it down with a scoop neckline tank and button down à la Kartvelishvili.
Why Shop with Us
Jenna Igneri is a freelance writer who has worked in fashion and beauty media for over a decade, with bylines in Refinery29, Byrdie, Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Coveteur, and more. In her years of experience as a fashion editor, she’s tested, worn, and styled hundreds of skirts and knows her way around the ever-versatile midi.
For this story, she included picks from her tried-and-true favorite brands and researched dozens of other options available today. She also consulted a team of style and design experts: plus-size stylist and image consultant Michaela Leitz, personal stylist Desiree Miranda, and Tata Kartvelishvili, CEO and founder of PR agency TATA PR and TATA LA shop.
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