What used to be seen as a frumpy article of clothing for the country Mamaw in her wood-oak carved rocker, grandma bun, Birkenstocks, and plethora of felines has suddenly been transformed to be the summer’s latest trend! Below-the-knee style skirts, aka “midi” skirts are back on the map with more structured, A-line styles and thicker fabrics, channeling fashion icons such as Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. *sigh* Who doesn’t want to be them?
Both images courtesy of Google images
It used to be said that classy girls wear pearls, but let’s be honest: nowadays, us classy gals wear midi skirts! However, the mid-calf skirt isn’t just for the prim and proper: whether your signature look is more preppy, vintage, edgy, or boho, you can totally make the midi work for you! Working with different fits and experimenting with fabrics can yield myriad looks when wearing a midi.
Preppy gals will love the not too loose, not too snug varieties of the midi, perhaps something along the lines of a pencil skirt. A denim button-down either tucked in or tie at the waist will couple nicely for your ensemble, and the just over-the-knee style is appropriate for work, but also gives you an edge! Pair with some nude pumps and a string of pearls to complete your look.
** I love this because it comes in so many colors and patterns!
Vintage girls will just love a more free, pleated version of the midi skirt. This TopShop design has that Sandra Dee feel to it: add a sleeveless button-down and a pair Keds and you’ll be singing “Summer Nights” with your Danny Zukko in no time! Or instead, snazz it up with a pair of fun heels, a sleek black top and a bold lip for that old-time glamour look!
Trendy boho girls will naturally gravitate towards one thing: flowers. So why not combine a floral midi with a crochet crop top, some gladiator sandals, and a crown of daisies? Sounds perfect to me. Just add some Belle & Sebastian to the mix and then you’re talkin’! I like this ASOS floral print:
So the remaining question withstands: how does one make a sweet, girly midi skirt edgy? Well, my dears, the answer is quite simple: leather. Add leather to any outfit and BOOM, you’re bad to the bone. Also, pairing a long-sleeve skin tight crop top adds just the right amount of skin but still keeps it classy. You may be wild, but you’re still a lady! GIRL POWER. Pair your leather with some classic Ray Ban sunnies and (surprise!) a pair of black patent leather pumps! I love this girl’s rendition –
Finally, I let you lovelies have a look into my closet and how I like to wear the midi! Personally, I like to combine vintage with trendy; I went for classic black to pair with the picnic-style fabric of the skirt, which makes it super versatile. The midi is an oldie I got from Urban Outfitters couple of years ago, but it has never failed me over the years! It’s perfect for work, family get-togethers, and meetings and the elastic waistband and flowiness makes it unbelievably comfortable too! It’s a win-win! I paired it with gold Forever 21 jewelery, mint green J.Crew pumps for a pop of color, and a topknot (like I’m going to do my hair in this humidity YEAH RIGHT). Voila! The perfect summer outfit!
Well, I hope this inspires y’all to get in touch with your girly side, so pack a picnic basket, grab your Cary Grant, and head on over to your nearest park or flower field for a day of good old-fashioned summer fun! Happy styling!