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You’ve seen the midi skirt pop up on runways, style publications, and fashion blogs, worn by the industry’s hottest trendsetters, from Hollywood starlets to fashion bloggers. Even the leading ladies in Philippine showbiz can’t get enough of the modest hem, with the likes of Kim Chiu spotted in a sleeveless pink top to match with her above-the-knee floral skirt, while Heart Evangelista decided on a fuller skirt, color blocking her outfit by keeping everything in a shade of blue to spotlight her yellow gem-studded pumps. But like any other trend that receives celebrity attention, we can’t help but wonder if the midi only looks best on a certain body type.
Contrary to popular belief, the midi skirt can be amended to any height and body shape. With the skirt sitting at your waist and then flaring out to exaggerate those hips, these bottoms have the potential to look good on everyone, yet styling doesn’t come as easy as one would hope. In reality, all it takes to nail the trend is to learn the little tricks that will help you master proportions and find the right accessories to flatter your curves.
You can always take inspiration from the 1970s when the midi hem was first manifested, or channel your favorite character from Mad Men, but we’d personally like to see more contemporary takes on the trend.
Here’s what you should keep in mind when experimenting with the midi skirt:
Think about your height and the proportion of the skirt
Your height plays an important role in choosing the right midi. Taller girls have it easier in this area, considering most midi hems will work to their benefit; shorter girls, on the other hand, have a little more work cut out for them. Although calf-length or ankle-grazing skirts are smaller in size compared to maxis, any hem cut between the ankle and mid-calf will actually make you seem shorter than usual. The stumpy look needs to be avoided at all costs.
If you’re closer to 5’0 in height, you’ll want to opt for midis that hit just above or below the knee, so that you can still show off your legs without being bogged down by extra fabric. You can also go for an asymmetrical hem, such as the Draped Wrap Asymmetrical Midi Skirt for the appearance of longer legs.
Strike a balance in your outfit
Now that you understand which hems are appropriate for you, it’s time to think styling according to the print on the skirt. Solids and subtler patterns have been recommended for shorter girls, but the truth is, any print can be pulled off at any height, so long as you style your ensemble in a way that the bold stripes or polka dots don’t consume you. For example, if you’re trying to base your OOTD on the Checkered Karylle Midi Skirt, make sure your top is in a neutral shade to avoid clashing prints. Your accessories can be kept neutral as well, but a great way to complement the skirt is by finding a pair of strappy heels or a handbag to match so that they work as accents in your outfit. If your skirt is a solid color, you have more freedom in terms of opting for either neutral or printed separates. Bold colored skirts are fantastic for breaking up neutral or monochromatic outfits.
Consider the fabric of the skirt
Because most midis tend to have a girly silhouette, one of the surefire ways of accessorizing the midi skirt getup is by selecting finishing touches that mirror the femininity of the shape. Then again, it’s all relative. Pearls may work for circle, pleated, and even denim skirts, though they may look rather odd with the High Waist Bodycon Pencil Midi Skirt, which is made from PU leather. For materials like these, you don’t want your separates to contradict each other. You’ll want to go for sleek pieces, such as a simple black choker. Edgy statement jewelry is also an option, as long you’re wearing a neutral top, perhaps a black crop top.
Shoes with ankle straps are the best option for footwear
While many celebs have gotten away with wearing flats and pumps with their midis, there’s no doubt in any style icon’s mind that the best shoes for the job are heels with ankle straps. Whether you are wearing a basic tee with the Denim High Waist Slit Midi Skirt or the prettiest silk blouse with the A-Line Big Hem Midi Skirt, you can rely on strappy heels to elevate your overall look and elongate your legs. If you’re wearing a printed midi, make sure shoes are matching in color or in a neutral shade so that they don’t distract from the star of the outfit. If the skirt is solid, play around with vibrant hues in your heels.
