The Best Long Skirts

Buying Guide for Long Skirts

Why buy a long skirt?

In contrast to a shorter skirt, a long one provides a more conservative style and ultimate comfort for those days you may not want to expose your legs. Of course, there are plenty of bodycon or tight-fitting long skirts that offer a more sensual silhouette if that’s what you prefer. Depending on how lightweight and breathable the material is, you could easily double your skirt as a swimsuit cover-up. In general, long skirts are an easy go-to acceptable option for most dress codes and can be worn casually or more formally, depending on the material and occasion.

What should you consider in a long skirt?

• Material: Polyester, spandex, and cotton are the most common materials used to make skirts. For stretch and room, polyester and spandex are your best friends. If you want something lightweight for those warm-weather days by the beach or pool, cotton it is.
• Length: If you’re a petite gal who wears heels or platforms with a long skirt, you’ll want to think about the proper length that will best fit your style without covering up your shoes or coming up to high above the ankles. The same goes for the taller ladies; however, it may be more of an issue of the skirt being too short.
• Fit: For those fun nights out with the girls or a more casual party, a form-fitting long skirt may match the mood. When it comes to a formal, strict dress code or if you know it’s a black tie event, you’ll want to opt for more coverage with a long skirt that has structure without any high slits or low-rise waist fit so you can show up as the classy, perfect date.

Is it better to hand wash or machine wash a long skirt?

This all depends on the material and extra layers or details the skirt may have—and ultimately, you should follow the instructions given by the brand or manufacturer. However, it’s advised to hand wash if possible so that you can keep the integrity intact as much as you can. A long skirt is made to be long and has a lot of material because of that, so if it were to get caught on the inside of the machine or possibly draw up after being tossed in the dryer, the fit and material of the skirt may be compromised.

Our Picks for the Best Long Skirts

Pros: Check out this high-low skirt with an eye-catching floral pattern if you want something a bit spicier than the traditional hem. It comes in 26 other bohemian-style patterns with shades of blue, green, orange, and red to more neutral shades like black, white, and beige. It’s made of 100% lightweight polyester with a stretchy elastic waist, so you can get a full day’s wear out with the girls or on a date night without feeling restricted. It ranges in sizes from small to extra large.

Cons: The material is pretty thin and prone to wrinkles.

Bottom Line: If you’re wanting to show off some leg but still be comfy in a breathable skirt, this boho-style asymmetric pick is a great meet-in-the-middle option. You’ll want this not-so-basic piece for moments when a plain bottom just won’t do.

 

Pros: Pop on this sleek-fitting skirt that can transition from day to night in an instant. The top layer drapes elegantly to show a sliver of leg, while the elastic in the waist allows stretch and comfort as you walk around. The high waist pairs perfectly with a crop top or flowy shirt for a flattering, feminine silhouette. You may be overwhelmed but happy to know that it comes in 42 solid colors, so if you like it, you can buy it in more colors.

Cons: The fit can be extra long and baggy if you have a smaller hip and leg area.

Bottom Line: This skirt’s polyester-spandex blend will hug and accentuate your curves, making an understated statement. While it may look pretty basic, the subtle asymmetric details will have you turning heads.

 

Pros: This maxi skirt from Urban CoCo is made for simple everyday wear that you can throw on without getting caught in frilly layers or zippers or worrying about exposing too much leg underneath. All you do is pull it on, and the polyester spandex will conform to your body and take care of the rest. If it’s too long or you want the waist to fall more at your hips, fold over the waistband for an easy adjustment. What’s even better is that it comes in 25 other solid colors and gorgeous prints, so you can expand your wardrobe.

Cons: Even the longest size may be too short for the taller ladies. If you’re more than 6 feet, you may have to explore other options.

Bottom Line: Sometimes basic isn’t boring. For the low-maintenance gal, this skirt serves double in practicality and total style.

 

Pros: Flounce around in this adorable, laid-back, free-flowing skirt that gives the most dreamy silhouette. It’s made of 100% rayon and has a drawstring closure, so you can customize the stretch to your liking. It comes with two handy pockets on either side, and the bottom is trimmed in ruffles to add that perfect youthful touch. It ranges from sizes 4 to 18 and comes in various bold prints to pastel colors.

Cons: The colors and prints may not match the ones in the photos.

Bottom Line: Sit back and relax or twirl around in this precious flowy skirt that has convenient features like pockets and a drawstring. If you’re a happy-go-lucky type of gal, this happy skirt will match your spirit.

 

Pros: This delicate mesh midi skirt knows how to come across elegantly without being overwhelming. It’s made of polyester and acrylic and has a double layer of tulle to create softness on the outside. There are 16 colors and a variety of outlined patterns of butterflies, flowers, and hearts that you can select from. The size ranges from 0 to 10.

Cons: While the details are beautiful, the lining inside does not always match up.

Bottom Line: For those holiday parties and fancy restaurants that have a more formal dress code, this mesh-lined stunner will have you covered. No doubt you’ll be reaching for this skirt any time you need to elevate your look.

Final Thoughts

The next time you aren’t feeling up to wearing a dress but still desire something more modest in taste than a short skirt, consider a long skirt instead. Enjoy the free movement and comfort you get in a long skirt while still sticking to your own style.