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Earlier this year I made my own predictions about trends for 2018. Feisty-printed trousers, pastel shirts and bold accessories were among my selection. And then Bora Aksu, Bottega Veneta, Chanel and Fendi, to name a few, sent their models cascading down the catwalk in show-stopping, billowing skirts that made me excited to switch my beloved suits for bare legs and flowing hemlines. What I’ve discovered is that there are no “wrong” skirts and that really, a skirt is the unsung hero of any wardrobe. A simple (or not so simple, in some cases) skirt has transformative powers and here are six styles to prove it.
Prince of Wales skirt, €49.99 at mango.com
This Prince of Wales midi skirt from Mango could have fallen straight from the SS18 catwalk. The sleek cross-over design is perfectly comfortable to wear the whole day long, and the high-waisted design is perfect for tucking in a crisp, white shirt. Delicate vertical light orange stripes elongate the silhouette and the button fastening adds a modern touch to this timeless print.
Bell-shaped skirt, €39.99 at hm.com
Delicate florals are not just for preppy dinner parties and afternoon polo. This floral, water-colour-effect midi skirt from H&M is perfect for slipping on between activities by the lake or relaxing by the open fire-pit after sunset. Toughen up the print with a classic cropped leather biker jacket and cool leather sandals. Watch the flattering pleats flutter around you in the breeze. A pop of pink on the lips will complete the look and bring it together.
ICYMI: How to wear a pleated skirt with NEXT
White horn midi skirt, €50 at topshop.com
A refreshing hit of white is the perfect tonic after a season of boring darks. This white wrap-effect midi skirt from Topshop is a gorgeous addition to your warm-weather wardrobe capsule. Add a hint of stripes, a standout pattern or a pop of colour to the lips to change things up. When in doubt, just add white.
Thalia multi chalk stripe skirt, €222 at rixo.co.uk
Even if you’re not a skirt person, it’s impossible to ignore the charm and summer feeling this SS18 Rixo skirt gives. Powder neutrals paired with bursts of vibrant red remind me of sunshine and nautical adventures by the seaside. Wear with a one-piece swimsuit or with a little T-shirt and trainers for a chic summer workwear update. Equally, this skirt is just as good with the matching top, if you’re feeling slightly more adventurous. Sit back and let this colourful skirt take you to a far-off white sandy beach somewhere.
The camel mini, €34.95 at folkster.com
There’s an air of reluctance among women when it comes to wearing a mini skirt. Suddenly, it’s a whole lot of skin on show and it can be difficult to wear while keeping a look sophisticated and banishing self-conscious thoughts. Strike a balance with fun capped sleeves or heavy embellishment on top (as perfectly executed by Folkster). The caramel colour gives this faux-leather mini a 2018 refresh, and the slight split gives it even more sex-appeal. By rule of thumb, if the legs are out, the shoulders should be mostly covered.
Ruffle hem skirt, €30 at monki.com
Flowy, light and flirtatious, this ruffle hem skirt has an asymmetrical hemline, a partly elasticated waistband for comfort and a row of buttons down the front. Again, the high-waisted feature is the perfect opportunity to tuck in your favourite shirt. Or, if you’re feeling more blazé, a skin-tight leotard or summertime bralette will serve this skirt well. Additional buttons down the seam of this skirt allow the wearer to adjust the slit according to how sassy they’re feeling. Remember, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere in the world.