5 TIPS FOR STYLING LONG SKIRTS TO LOOK CHIC, NOT FRUMPY
Forget the mini skirt—let’s dive into the best ways to style a long skirt without looking frumpy! I’ve gathered my top expert tips to help you wear maxi skirts in a way that flatters every body type and adds a chic, polished touch to your look.
I think long skirts deserve a spot in every woman’s wardrobe, right alongside a classic black pencil skirt. Not only are they incredibly versatile—easy to style for different occasions—but they’re also SO comfortable, making them a practical choice that doesn’t compromise on style.
Long skirts are a true wardrobe essential, especially if you’re building a mom capsule wardrobe. Their versatility and ease of wear make them a “win-win” addition you’ll reach for again and again.
Worried that all that extra length and fabric might end up looking frumpy instead of fabulous?
Here are my top tips for styling long skirts to keep your look polished and modern, plus some outfit inspiration from my own favorite long skirt looks that made me feel confident and comfortable!
TIP #1 BE AWARE OF PROPORTIONS
The secret to styling a long maxi skirt without looking frumpy lies in balancing proportions. Since the skirt’s length adds volume, opt for a top that accentuates your waist and draws the eye upward. This creates a balanced silhouette that elongates your overall look and adds a touch of elegance.
One of my favorite ways to achieve this balanced look is with a puff-sleeved top. The exaggerated shoulders create a flattering contrast, enhancing the illusion of a smaller waist and giving that coveted hourglass silhouette.
Another great option is pairing your maxi skirt with a more form-fitting top. A fitted top balances out the flowy skirt, ensuring that your curves aren’t lost under layers of fabric and keeping your overall shape defined and stylish.
TIP #2 CINCH THE WAIST
The golden rule for wearing a long skirt without looking frumpy is to cinch in your waist! Make sure the skirt sits at your natural waistline to define your curves and prevent your shape from getting lost in the fabric. This simple adjustment adds structure to your outfit and enhances your silhouette.
There are lots of ways that you can cinch in your waist when wearing a longer skirt!
Using a belt to accentuate your waist
Knotting your shirt to that it sits just at the top of the skirt
Tucking in an oversized sweater or blouse to show off the waist
Wear a crop top paired with a high waisted maxi skirt
TIP #3 TUCK IT IN
To maintain balanced proportions and cinch your waist, as mentioned in the previous tips, try tucking in your flowy blouses or oversized sweaters. This will complement the long length of your skirt and highlight your shape.
For a more formal look, pair a pullover sweater with a pleated maxi skirt. Or, if you prefer a streamlined look, tuck your sweater into your bra. This gives the illusion of a tucked-in style without adding any extra bulk around the waistline.
TIP #4 ADD HEIGHT
Another great tip for styling long skirts is to choose shoes with height! Whether you go for high heels or knee-high boots with a taller shaft, the added height helps create a long, lean silhouette and gives you a super flattering look. The vertical lines from the boots or heels will elongate your legs and complement the flow of the skirt.
As someone who’s petite, I always opt for shoes with a bit of a heel—it instantly elevates my look and helps me feel longer and leaner. This is a great option if you’re on the shorter side or dressing up for a formal event. A slight heel not only adds height but also gives your outfit a more polished, stylish feel, making the whole look come together effortlessly.
TIP #5 PLAY WITH PATTERNS
Any look can be instantly more flattering if the patterns enhance your silhouette! Try pairing a patterned top with a solid-colored maxi skirt to draw the eye upwards, or opt for vertical pleats that create a longer, leaner appearance. This small detail makes a big impact, transforming your look from frumpy to fabulous.
You can also mix textures for an added level of style and sophistication! For example, I paired a silky maxi skirt with a sheer polka dot bodysuit. The mix of textures and patterns not only added visual interest but also created a flattering, chic outfit perfect for a dressier event.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, styling a long skirt doesn’t have to be intimidating or frumpy. By focusing on proportion, cinching your waist, choosing shoes with height, and mixing patterns or textures, you can create a flattering, chic look that works for any occasion. Whether you’re aiming for a casual day out or dressing up for a formal event, these tips will help you wear long skirts with confidence, enhancing your silhouette and keeping you comfortable and stylish!
20 BEST SPRING OUTFITS TO MAKE YOU TRULY ELEGANT AND STYLISH
Spring has sprung! As the days get longer, the flowers bloom, and the warm breeze whispers through the air, it’s the perfect time to shed your winter layers and embrace the fresh energy of the season. But with a new season comes the question: what to wear?
This curated list of 20 spring outfits will inspire you to create elegant and stylish looks that are perfect for every occasion. From breezy dresses and chic jackets to timeless denim and playful pops of color, we’ve got you covered. So, get ready to ditch the hibernation mode and step out in style this spring!
BROWN JACKET + BLUE JEANS + CHARM BAG
The combo of a brown jacket, blue jeans, and a charm bag is a spring fashion staple for a reason. It’s endlessly adaptable! Want casual? Grab a bomber jacket and light wash jeans. Craving something dressier? A tailored blazer and dark wash denim elevate the look. Brown leather jackets offer cool sophistication, while suede adds a softer touch. Whatever your jacket style, pair it with straight-leg or bootcut jeans for a flattering fit. Light distressing adds personality, but avoid major rips for a polished look. The charm bag is the perfect finishing touch – a small crossbody with a detachable charm in leather for timeless elegance or canvas for a more casual vibe.
LEATHER TROUSERS + A WHITE BUTTON-DOWN
Leather pants and a white button-down offer a bold and unexpected spring combination that walks the line between edgy and chic. The key to mastering this look lies in balancing the textures and silhouettes. The fitted white button-down adds a touch of classic structure and elegance, perfectly counteracting the coolness and rebellion inherent in leather trousers.
Choose a crisp, well-ironed button-down for a polished touch, or opt for a slightly looser one with rolled sleeves for a more relaxed vibe. For the leather pants, high-waisted styles create a long, flattering silhouette, while straight-leg or slightly cropped cuts offer a modern feel. Play with textures – matte leather adds a sophisticated touch, while patent leather creates a more high-shine, dramatic look. To complete the outfit, consider your footwear. Heels add instant glamor, while sneakers or loafers create a cool, downtown vibe.
CROPPED KNIT + SHARP SHIRTING + CLASSIC JEANS
The cropped knit, sharp shirting, and classic jean combo is a perfect example of effortless spring layering. It’s a winning formula that combines comfort and style. The cropped knit, whether a sweater or cardigan, adds a touch of cozy texture and shows a hint of midriff. This creates a balanced silhouette when paired with sharp shirting underneath.
Opt for a crisp white button-down for a timeless look, or play with patterns and stripes for a more playful vibe. Leave the shirt collar slightly unbuttoned for a relaxed feel. Classic jeans, in either a straight-leg or slim-fit cut, ground the outfit and provide a casual base.
To elevate the look, choose dark wash denim or add a statement belt. This outfit combination works well with various footwear choices. Sneakers or loafers create a relaxed vibe, while heels or ankle boots can dress it up for a night out.
A BLACK MINI DRESS + FUN LOAFERS
The black mini dress and fun loafers combo is a spring and summer must-have for its effortless cool. It’s a versatile look that transitions from day to night. The little black dress itself is a timeless canvas, hugging your curves and exuding confidence. Choose a simple shift dress for a classic vibe, or a wrap dress for a touch of femininity.
Chunky platform soles add instant statement, metallics bring glam, and patterned loafers in polka dots or animal prints unleash your playful side. Don’t be afraid of a pop of color – a red or yellow loafer can be a surprising twist. Keep accessories minimal, letting the dress and loafers shine. Add a leather jacket or cropped blazer for an edgy touch. Dress it up with a clutch and statement earrings for a night out, or keep it casual with a tote bag and denim jacket for brunch.
TAILORED BLAZER + CAPRI LEGGINGS + METALLIC FLATS
Cap it off with unexpected chic! The tailored blazer, capri leggings, and metallic flats combo is a fresh take on spring style. It’s all about balancing formality with fun. A well-tailored blazer, fitted at the shoulders and nipped at the waist, provides polish against the casual capri leggings. Opt for opaque, dark-colored leggings that hit just above the ankle for a streamlined look.
Then comes the fun part – the metallic flats! Inject your personality with silver or gold, or get bolder with rose gold or bronze. Consider a matte finish for sophistication or a shiny one for extra glam. Keep accessories minimal and choose a structured bag like a satchel or crossbody to complement the blazer.
AN OVERSIZED CARDIGAN + COLORFUL DENIM
Cozy meets cool with the oversized cardigan and colorful denim pairing, a perfect outfit for breezy spring days. The oversized cardigan drapes effortlessly, adding a relaxed feel, while the colorful denim injects a dose of fun and personality. For the cardigan, choose a chunky knit or a softer cashmere blend, depending on the desired level of warmth. Play with neutrals like cream or beige for a more versatile look, or embrace the season with pastel colors like lavender or light blue.
The key to balancing the oversized silhouette is the denim. Opt for high-waisted straight-leg jeans or a flattering bootcut for a streamlined look. The colorful part? Let your personality shine! Bright yellows, cool blues, or even a touch of pink or green add a playful touch. Keep the rest of your outfit simple – a white t-shirt or a cami underneath, and sneakers or booties for footwear.
The light-weight knit and pencil skirt combo is a match made in springtime elegance. It’s a perfect balance of comfortable and polished, ideal for work or a stylish weekend look. The lightweight knit, whether a sweater or a fitted tee, adds a touch of easygoing comfort without compromising sophistication. Choose a neutral color like cream or white for a timeless vibe, or embrace the season with pastel hues like lavender or mint green.
The key to keeping things polished lies in the pencil skirt. Opt for a classic knee-length cut in a sleek material like ponte knit or wool blend. This creates a flattering silhouette that complements the fitted top. Now for the vintage touch! Fun vintage earrings add a pop of personality and tie the outfit to your unique style. From bold geometric shapes to delicate pearls, the possibilities are endless. Keep your shoes simple – heels elevate the look for work, while flats or loafers create a more relaxed weekend vibe.
A SPARKLY LONG SLEEVE TOP + JEANS
Embrace your inner disco queen with a sparkly long-sleeve top and jeans! This glamorous and casual combo is perfect for a night out or adding some pizzazz to your everyday look. The sparkly top, whether sequined, glittery, or shimmering with metallic threads, instantly elevates your outfit. Choose a fitted silhouette for a sleek look, or embrace a looser fit for a more relaxed vibe.
For the jeans, keep things casual with classic straight-leg or boyfriend cuts. Dark wash denim provides a nice contrast to the sparkle, but don’t be afraid to experiment with lighter washes for a more daytime-appropriate look. To complete the outfit, consider your footwear. Heels add instant glamour, while sneakers or booties create a cool, downtown edge. This sparkly-casual combination lets you shine and turn heads, whether you’re dancing the night away or adding a touch of fun to your weekend errands.
RUFFLE BLOUSE + LONGLINE BLAZER + PYTHON MULES
Channel your inner fashionista with the statement-making combo of a ruffle blouse, longline blazer, and python mules. It’s a bold and unexpected mix that’s perfect for work, a night out, or when you want to own the room.
The ruffle blouse adds a touch of romantic femininity with its delicate details. Opt for a pastel color or a floral print to further soften the look, or choose a classic white or black for a more timeless vibe. The longline blazer creates a chic and balanced silhouette, taming the playfulness of the ruffles. A neutral color like black, navy, or beige complements the blouse and allows the python mules to take center stage. These exotic patterned mules add a dose of fierce energy and complete the outfit with a touch of unexpected flair. Keep your accessories minimal – delicate earrings and a sleek clutch will do the trick.
CARGO PANTS + A DENIM JACKET
The combo of cargo pants and a denim jacket is a relaxed yet cool outfit formula that’s perfect for casual outings or weekend adventures. It offers a sense of practicality with the cargo pants’ multiple pockets, ideal for stashing essentials on the go.
Choose a khaki or olive green cargo pant for a classic vibe, or opt for black for a more edgy look. Keep the fit relaxed but not baggy – straight-leg or slightly tapered cuts work well. The denim jacket adds a timeless touch and complements the casual feel of the cargo pants. A light wash denim jacket creates a more laid-back look, while a dark wash adds a touch of sophistication.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different jacket styles – a cropped denim jacket adds a modern twist, while an oversized one offers a more relaxed vibe. To complete the outfit, throw on a t-shirt or a Henley underneath for a casual feel. Sneakers are the perfect footwear choice, but loafers or boots can also work depending on the desired level of polish.
FLORAL DRESS + STATEMENT BLAZER
The floral dress and statement blazer duo is a perfect example of springtime elegance with a touch of personality. It’s a versatile combination that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The floral dress adds a touch of femininity and romance, while the statement blazer injects a dose of sophistication and structure. When choosing your floral dress, consider the scale and color of the print. Smaller florals in soft pastels offer a more delicate look, while bolder prints in vibrant colors make a stronger statement.
The statement blazer comes in endless possibilities – a cropped blazer adds a modern touch, while a double-breasted blazer exudes power. Play with bold colors, patterns like plaid or houndstooth, or even unexpected textures like velvet or leather. Dress it down with sneakers or sandals for a casual brunch, or elevate the look with heels and statement earrings for a night out.
A KNIT DRESS + CHUNKY BOOTS
The knit dress and chunky boot pairing is a cozy yet chic outfit combo that thrives in the fall and winter months. It’s perfect for those days when you want both comfort and style. The knit dress, whether a sweater dress or a fitted midi, offers warmth and a relaxed feel. Choose a chunky knit for added texture or a fine knit for a more polished look. Neutrals like cream or black are timeless options, but jewel tones or rich browns add a seasonal touch.
Chunky boots are the stars of the show, injecting a dose of edge and personality. Ankle boots with chunky platforms or lug soles add instant style, while knee-high chunky boots create a long, flattering silhouette. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures – leather offers a classic vibe, while suede adds a touch of softness. Complete the look with a statement necklace, a beanie for extra warmth, or a leather jacket for an edgy touch.
BRIGHT LAYERS + NEUTRAL TROUSERS
This look is perfect for spring and summer, allowing you to showcase your playful side while maintaining a chic foundation. For the bright layers, think playful and eye-catching. A colorful kimono over a tank top, a vibrant sweater vest layered on a crisp white button-down, or a patterned blouse peeking out from under a cropped jacket are all great options.
Don’t shy away from bold colors – think sunshine yellow, sassy fuchsia, or a cool mint green. Opt for a straight-leg, wide-leg, or cropped cut in beige, khaki, or black. These neutral tones provide a grounding base that lets your colorful layers shine. To complete the look, keep your footwear simple – sneakers or sandals are perfect for casual outings, while heels can elevate the outfit for a night out.
A WHITE JUMPSUIT + COLORFUL HEELS
The white jumpsuit and colorful heels combo is a summery look that radiates confidence and effortless style. The white jumpsuit acts as a clean canvas, flattering most body types and exuding a sense of chic sophistication. You can choose a flowy wide-leg style for a breezy feel, a tailored jumpsuit for a more polished look, or even a belted option to cinch your waist and create a flattering silhouette. Here’s where the fun comes in – the colorful heels! They add a pop of personality and let you showcase your playful side.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors – bright red heels, sunny yellow sandals or cool mint-toned mules will make a statement. Go with the prints – metallic heels add instant glamour, while platform sandals add a trendy touch. Keep your accessories to a minimum – delicate jewelry and a simple clutch will complement the clean lines of your jumpsuit without crowding out your colorful shoes. This versatile outfit is perfect for a summer brunch, a night out with friends, or even a dressier event with the right choice of heels. With this elegant outfit, consider adding highlights with spring nail designs for a perfect overall look.
LEOPARD TRENCH + WHITE TEE + BAGGY JEANS
The leopard trench takes center stage, its bold print adding instant personality and a touch of wildness. A crisp white tee grounds the look, offering a clean base that lets the trench be the star. To balance the proportions, baggy jeans in a light wash or with some rips create a relaxed feel and contrast nicely with the structured silhouette of the trench. Want to dress it up? Swap the light wash for a dark one. Sneakers or loafers keep things casual, while ankle boots or heels can elevate the outfit for a night out. Accessorize minimally – a tote or crossbody bag in a neutral color and delicate jewelry won’t compete with the statement print.
A VEST SUIT
A vest suit is perfect for spring outfits because it adds a touch of elegance while keeping you comfortable in changing temperatures. The vest, or waistcoat, complements lighter fabrics and colors typically worn in spring, like pastels or soft neutrals. It layers well over shirts and under jackets, offering versatility for different weather conditions throughout the day. Whether paired with trousers or a skirt, a vest suit enhances your look with a polished and sophisticated style suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
CAR COAT + DAINTY COLLAR + SWING SKIRT
A car coat paired with a dainty collar and a swing skirt creates a charming and timeless ensemble. The car coat, known for its versatility and classic silhouette, provides warmth and style without being too heavy for spring. A dainty collar adds a delicate detail, enhancing the neckline without overwhelming the outfit. Paired with a swing skirt, which flares out gracefully, the look becomes effortlessly elegant and feminine. This combination is ideal for spring days when you want to feel both chic and comfortable, blending practicality with a touch of vintage-inspired flair.
A SHEER DRESS + NUDE SANDALS
A sheer dress paired with nude sandals creates a light and ethereal look perfect for warm weather. The sheer fabric of the dress adds a delicate and airy feel, allowing for a hint of skin to show through while still maintaining elegance. Nude sandals complement the outfit by elongating the legs and providing a neutral base that doesn’t distract from the dress. This combination is ideal for spring and summer occasions where a graceful and effortless style is desired, offering both comfort and sophistication in one ensemble.
LEATHER BOMBER + LOW-RISE TROUSERS + CHUNKY DAD SNEAKS
A leather bomber jacket paired with low-rise trousers and chunky dad sneakers creates a trendy and casual urban look. The leather bomber jacket adds a touch of edginess and warmth, making it suitable for cooler spring days or evenings. Low-rise trousers provide a relaxed fit and modern silhouette, contrasting with the structured style of the jacket. Chunky dad sneakers complete the outfit with a comfortable and sporty vibe, adding a fashionable element to the overall ensemble. This combination is perfect for those seeking a stylish yet laid-back outfit that merges streetwear with contemporary fashion trends.
DENIM MAXI + YELLOW POP + SPORTY SHOES
A denim maxi skirt paired with a yellow pop top and sporty shoes creates a fun and versatile outfit. The denim maxi skirt offers a relaxed and comfortable fit while maintaining a chic appearance suitable for various spring occasions. Adding a yellow pop top brings a vibrant and cheerful touch to the ensemble, making it stand out. Sporty shoes complement the casual vibe of the outfit, providing both style and comfort for all-day wear. This combination is perfect for those looking to blend casual elegance with a splash of color and practical footwear, ideal for a relaxed day out or casual gathering.
CONCLUSION
As spring unfolds, so do the possibilities for your wardrobe! With these 20 outfit ideas, you’re equipped to tackle any occasion with confidence and style. Whether you crave timeless elegance, playful personality, or a touch of unexpected flair, there’s a spring outfit combination waiting to be your new favorite. So go forth, embrace the fresh energy of the season, and express your unique style with every outfit!
