Outfit inspiration and 4 tips

Long live midi! This beloved outfit came into my life in 2012 and remains a favorite today. This Tibi skirt was the one that first captured my heart. I bought it in almost every color and mixed and matched it for years to come. You know something is a classic and timeless piece of clothing when it can last decades and still be stylish. Today I’m excited to share some outfit inspiration and tips on how to style a midi skirt. If you have a midi skirt hiding in the back of your closet, it’s time to bring it out, throw on some outfits and have some fun!

Styling a midi skirt

The fashion world will always try to convince you that items are either ‘in’ or ‘out’. And every year I come across a publication or designer who says that midi skirts are “out” this season. But in my mind, the midi skirt is always present. It’s such a classic, timeless piece that can be styled in so many different ways. Over the years I’ve worn pleated midi skirts, tulle midi skirts, colorful midi skirts and everything in between. When it comes to styling a midi skirt, the possibilities are endless – office wear, formal wear or even everyday casual. This is absolutely a style staple for me.

How to wear a midi skirt

I’m sure this will come as no surprise, but I do love playing with different ways to wear midi skirts. Putting outfits together is a fun form of self-expression, and it’s one of my favorite parts of being creative. Over the years I’ve come up with some tips on how to style a midi skirt and I’m ready to share them today! So break out your favorite midi skirt (or maybe treat yourself to a new one). It’s time to try these outfit ideas.

Classic midi skirts

Firstly, the most predictable yet classic way to style a midi skirt is with a simple shoe and a simple top. I’ve been wearing classic midi skirts like this for over ten years and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon! Wondering what exactly to wear with a midi skirt to pull off a classic look? I’d keep things simple by pairing it with a crewneck sweater or a timeless button down. When it comes to shoes, a great ballet flat or a classic pump are always easy but fashionable choices. Check out my favorite spring shoes for more options in these styles! I would complete this midi skirt look with a top handle bag and substantial earrings, preferably pearls, like these! Below I’m showing you a really classic way to style a midi skirt as well as a timeless but colorful look!

Skirt // Flats // Headband // Top // Sunglasses

Skirt // Bag // Sunglasses // Sweater // Blazer // Flats // Earrings

Casual dresses with midi skirts

Looking for more of a cute downtown way to style a midi skirt? Wear it with a great pair of sneakers and a turtleneck or a vintage graphic tee. Even a “fancy” tulle skirt can be made casual with sneakers. And the good news is that there are so many amazing sneaker options this spring! I think these white Vejas, these fun sparkly sneakers, these colorful ones, or these platform sneakers would all look great styled with a midi skirt. Additionally, I think pairing one with these retro-feeling shoes and a striped turtleneck would create a casual yet timeless look. To complete these midi skirt outfits, I would add a pair of oversized sunglasses and a chic little bag or a classic Chanel bag.

Skirt // Sunglasses // Striped Top // Sneakers // Tote Bag // Blazer

How to wear a midi skirt in winter

Another reason why I love midi skirts is because they can easily be worn all year round. In fact, you can wear the exact same piece in summer and winter, just paired with different items. Let’s start by diving into how to style midi skirts for the cooler, winter months.

The upside of wearing a midi skirt in the winter is that you can layer under the skirt when it’s really cold. I’ve worn these faux leather leggings under a midi skirt in the past and they always keep me warm. You can style the skirt with a cable knit sweater (under $36) and knee-high boots for a classic winter outfit.

At first, styling a midi skirt with a coat may seem a bit complicated, but it’s actually not too difficult. I usually pair a midi skirt with either a cropped coat that falls around the natural high waistline OR opt for a longer coat that falls at the hemline or slightly longer. As a maximalist, I’m never afraid to over-accessorize! So I would also add a scarf and even a knit beanie to create a cozy look. For a more formal look, I’d style it with a cable knit sweater with a button down layer, knee high boots, a longer coat and a wool hat.

Skirt // Sweater // Shirt // Scarf // Boots // Bag // Hat // Coat

Summer styling

Going somewhere warm? Styling a midi skirt during the summer months or on vacation can be a lot of fun! It looks fantastic paired with a bralette top, sandals and statement earrings. For summer shoes I like to wear midi skirts with classic flat sandals. But if you want something more “of the moment”, you can combine one with these trendy platform sandals. For those of you who aren’t afraid to show a little skin, this yellow wavy top and this tie top are both adorable. And if you really want to stay on theme, these fish earrings are the perfect finishing touch!

Skirt // Bag // Sunglasses // Trench // Earrings // Shoes // Top

Styling tips and tricks

Okay, now that I’ve shared some of my favorite ways to wear a midi skirt, I want to leave you with some final tips and tricks.

1. Don’t be afraid to layer a blouse or tulle skirt under a full midi skirt to add more volume. In my opinion, the bigger the better!

2. Here’s a surprise… you can layer a dress under a midi skirt! As long as the waist isn’t too snug, layering a dress under a midi skirt is a great way to mix and match more pieces in your closet. Check out how I styled this look in 2013!

3. Color is key! Some of my favorite ways to style a midi skirt involve playing with color. For a very dramatic look, you can create a head-to-toe monochromatic midi skirt. Or, you can mix and match interesting color combinations to make the outfit pop, like I did here and here.

4. Don’t be afraid to play with texture. You can combine lace with tulle, cashmere with taffeta, organza with fur or another unexpected combination. I think the more you can play with texture in a look, the more interesting it can be.

How to style midi skirts

I hope these tips on how to style a midi skirt leave you feeling confident and excited to put together some new outfits! If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out mine Green clothing ideas (you can see some midi skirts there) and my roundup of favorite spring shoes to wear this year.