Skirts for Fall: The Long and Short of the Trends

(ASOS.com)

Any woman can rock a mini this fall and winter. It’s all about getting the right length to meet the needs of your figure. “Mini-skirts are great for the fall because you can pair them with opaque tights to conceal lumps and bumps, as well as lengthen your silhouette,” explains Petro. “If you’re rocking a micro mini, wear it with tights and a tailored blazer to keep it classy and fashion-forward.” (Reuters)

All stylists agree that the hottest trend this season is leather. The best way to wear this look in a sexy and polished way is by incorporating a curve-hugging, knee-length leather skirt, which can be worn at the office, for date night, or cocktail hour with the girls. To keep it office-friendly, make sure to also wear a silk blouse, cardigan, or blazer. Since your skirt will be making a bold statement, keep the accessories minimal. (Reuters)

“If you’re looking for a flattering style, an A-line skirt is your best bet,” states Amy Hirt, stylist for online retailer ModCloth.com. “The A-line cinches at the smallest part of your waist and flares out at the hip, creating a flattering, flirty silhouette. Try one paired with a printed blouse and flats for day, and then add a denim jacket and fun wedges for a night out.” (Associated Press)

No matter what style best suits your personality, it’s crucial that you invest in the right size for your figure. “If it stretches so your bottom is protruding and horizontal lines are pulling across the front, it’s too tight for the office,” warns image consultant Thea Wood. “Shape wear is essential if you see ripples through the fabric.” Ladies, if the idea of shape wear sounds daunting, don’t fret. Simply visit a lingerie boutique to explore the various styles and brands of shape wear currently available to meet your budget. (Thinkstock)

“For women who are more curvy, it’s good to wear skirts that hit higher above the waist, along with looser skirts, such as maxis,” says celebrity stylist Ali Levine. “These can avoid drawing attention to areas that a woman does not want attention drawn to.” For some added glamour, look for full-length skirts in bold hues, floral prints, or stripes, which can brighten your couture for anytime of the day without over-accessorizing. With a long skirt, make sure your top is fitted to avoid appearing heavier and even frumpy. (Reuters)

If you have a long, lean shape, look for one runway piece that has the ability to be mixed and matched with a variety of tops and accessories. “Wear a peplum to add texture and volume to your look,” suggests model and fashion expert Jaimie Hilfiger. “Since you are lacking in the curve department, choose a skirt that cinches at your waist or pair it with a stylish belt. This will exaggerate your curves. A skirt that cinches your waist, in particular, will create a beautiful illusion.” (Associated Press)

"Full, knee-length skirts are staging a major comeback,” says Petro. “Though we’re seeing many feminine interpretations in pastels and billowy layers, leather versions feel the newest, taking the look from proper to slightly subversive, in a classy way of course. A full-knee length skirt works to minimize the waist, emphasizing an hourglass figure-which is beneficial to both ultra-slender and bottom-heavy women.”

Christina Hendricks is rarely seen without her signature pencil skirt even outside of the "Mad Men" set and we can easily see why. “Pencil skirts are a work wardrobe classic and can also be very flattering,” states Hirt. “Balance out a fitted pencil skirt with a cardigan or blazer on top. Instead of black, try a warm fall color like mustard or wine. Shape wear can be your best friend under a nicely fitted pencil skirt to create a smooth look. A printed scarf and satchel-style bag completes a look that’s perfect for the office.” (Associated Press)

For the crisp fall season, in particular, stylists say wrap skirts are becoming increasing popular. Whether fitted and polished or flowy and ballerina-inspired, they’re alluring without being too risqué for daywear. Give your boots a feminine edge with a wrap skirt that falls to the knee or, if you really want to channel your inner dancer, wear matching ballet flats to keep you comfortable and stylish. (ASOS.com)