When the sun is out, so are short dresses. But sporting them can get très tricky. Worry not, we have got you covered with all the relevant dos and don’ts…
Celeb inspiration
Miniskirts are one of those wardrobe staples that will never go out of style. In fact, you can pretty much guarantee that celebs will bust theirs out practically on cue when the weather warms up year after year. They keeps us cool as shorts do on hot days, while offering more of a feminine look that’s perfect for everything from date night to a brunch outing. “We look up to celebs like Kendall Jenner for mini skirt outfit inspiration, because she has the perfect legs to flaunt them and she can pull off any given look,” says designer Sweta Tantia, referring to how Jenner had paired a denim miniskirt with combat boots.
Sara Ali Khan is another source of inspiration. “In one of her appearances, she wore a floral printed mini skirt with a bold green shirt that was ideal for summer,” says designer Gazal Mishra. According to designer Riddhi Jain, for skirts, it has to be Blake Lively because her looks from ‘Gossip Girl’ are evergreen. Hadid sisters, Gigi and Bella, along with Rihanna, and Hailey Baldwin are the choices of stylists Eshaa Amiin and Maneka Harisinghani.
Suit your shape
From A-line to pencil, hourglass to pear, there are as many skirt styles as there are body types. So, let’s accept our bodies and wear what works best for us. “One with an apple figure will look fantastic in high-waist flouncy skirts,” says Gazal. If you have a shape like banana/rectangle then body-conscious mini skirts are perfect for you. People with an hourglass figure will look classy in pencil skirts. “They can wear a belt to enhance their body shape,” suggests Sweta. Anyone with a pear figure must go for A-line skirts and can try different styles with ruffles on top.
Designers’ choice
Short skirts are versatile and you can style it to work for the occasion. The floral pattern and flowy silhouettes would be the best option to go with. “The best way to rock them is to pair it with white chunky sneakers with a pop of colour or design on them to leave a statement,” says stylist Eshaa Amiin. Since this season will be all about glitz and glam, “opt for satin ruffled hem skirts or in asymmetric styles, for pattern animal prints will speak for itself,” adds Eshaa.
“A knee-length skirt in georgette and cotton base is ideal for achieving the look. Asymmetric silhouettes and printed styles are taking over the urban millennial wardrobe fast,” says designer Hemant Sagar. Such skirts can be paired with a basic tee or dressed up with a layered look by wearing it with a camisole and blazer. “To keep it effortless, a tropical print mini skirt with white tee and flat sandals or sneakers should do the trick. Layering a skirt with a tee and an oversized jacket or trench however would be my gem,” recommends stylist Maneka.
Pros and cons
“Mini skirts can create an illusion to the eyes by elongating our legs which ends up making you look tall, so it’s a staple especially in a petite girl’s wardrobe,” specifies Pernia Qureshi Brands. They can be styled for most occasions, but are best suited for summers. Plus, they make you feel feminine. “It’s also a figure flattering choice and there is so much variety that it becomes easier to find the right style,” affirms Sweta.
The disadvantage of wearing such short lengths is that one has to always take care of the outfit. “You should always be careful of any up-skirts during any sort of movement — sitting, walking up the stairs, getting in and out of the car, etc. Also, the weather may create a problem for you sometimes. But, if you wear the right outfit, this can also be taken care of,” declares designer Kanchan Sabharwal.
Dos and don’ts
While wearing short lengths one needs to be careful about certain things. “First, always wear tights underneath. Second, get your legs waxed and third, always sit with legs crossed while wearing a skirt and avoid bending,” says Gazal. Legs should not be dry and flaky. Avoid showing butt cheeks. One could add bronzer to add depth to your legs. “Talking about adding a little edge, use a little bit of body shiner or oil on your legs to make them look toned. If you are very specific about your calves, a little bronzer will help give a better shape,” recommends Riddhi. If it is bodycon skirt, avoid showing panty lines. Seamless shorts or a thong would be a good way to go. “Be careful with the proportions of the top you wear with the skirt. A skimpy look is not a good look for any occasion,” states Manek. Size and fit of the miniskirt matters a lot as it takes away any stress of looking uncomfortable.
A skirt is a very classic piece of clothing, so regardless of current trends, it’s always going to stay. It provides you the freedom to walk comfortably and also looks good overall. “So, if you are confident about what you are wearing, you are sure to be the belle of the ball,” concludes Eshaa.
Short pointers
Formals: Wear a metallic skirt with a classic white shirt and pumps. A blazer can also be thrown into the mix, finish off this look with pointed pumps and add chic pieces of minimal jewellery for maximum effect.
Semi Formals: Pairing a skirt with a shirt and a pair of kicks is always a good look. Even a lace skirt with a striped shirt will work.
Grunge: Wear your skirt with a T-shirt or knit top with boots and chunky jewellery.
Bohemian: Pair your skirt with an aged tee, throw in a pair of gladiators and tassel earrings.
