Why You Need A Little Black Skirt

The little black skirt has been a closet staple for me for as long as I can remember. Right now, I have four of them. They’re versatile, figure-flattering pieces, so I often reach for them when I’m getting dressed in a hurry (i.e. always). Here’s why I think everyone needs a little black skirt, how to wear them, and some options you can buy online…

Can Anyone Wear A Little Black Skirt?

If you like to dress modestly, or feel “too old” for a short skirt, keep in mind that little can mean whatever you want. I don’t feel comfortable in skirts that are shorter than 19″ so for me little doesn’t mean mini. Stand in front of a mirror, take out a tape measure, hold it to your waist and figure out the minimum length you would wear. (It helps to wear a skirt that you already love.) If that measurement falls below your knees, then that’s your version of little. When you’re shopping online, you can usually see the length of the skirt in the product details description.

What Style Should I Buy?

The little black skirt comes in so many shapes, styles, and fabric that there’s something for almost everybody. If you choose certain fabrics like lightweight wool, ponte, corduroy, polyester, or viscose, you should be able to wear your skirt for most seasons.

The A-Line Skirt:

If you have a pear-shaped figure or have a thickening waistline, try an a-line skirt that skims over your curves. My little black skirt is an inexpensive stretch jersey one from J.Crew Factory. This LOFT Ponte Flippy Skirt is similar. Wear this style in the summer with a t-shirt and sandals, and in the winter with a sweater, tights, and boots.

Anthropologie’s Kristina Chenille Mini Skirt is 19″ long and has a subtle pattern. This one is more of a fall/winter style.

$ For a longer style, J.Crew’s Pull-On Slip Skirt is between knee-length and midi-length.

The Pencil Skirt

A fitted pencil skirt is a classic professional style. Wear it with a button-down blouse (I recommend silk), a cashmere sweater, or a fitted top and blazer.

Ann Taylor has some classic black skirts (all under $100.) Take a look at their:

• Pearlized Doubleweave Wrap Skirt which comes in regular and petite.
• Ponte Pencil Skirt which will stretch as you move.
• Seasonless Stretch Seamed Pencil Skirt which they also make in a Curvy-Fit.

$ J.Crew’s No. 2 Pencil Skirt In Four Season Stretch comes in classic, petite and tall. Hint: if you are petite but want a longer length, try a tall, and vice versa if you are tall and want a shorter skirt.

Looking for something that would take you from the office to cocktails? Take a look at White House Black Market’s Leopard Jacquard Skirt.

The Buttoned Mini Skirt

If you need a casual skirt (and want to show off your legs) take a look at $ Free People’s Notched Side Denim Skirt. It’s tiny, at only 16.5″ long.

White House Black Market’s Stud-Trim Boot Skirt is 18.5″ and also comes in petite.

Kate Spade’s Spade Pocket Skirt is 19″ with buttons all the way down the front.

Wear your buttoned mini with a fitted t-shirt, and finish the look with a blazer, long cardigan or puffer jacket. Add your favorite boots or sneakers.

The Leather Skirt

If you’re looking for a bold but classic look, try a leather skirt:

& Other Stories has a Leather Asymmetric Pencil Skirt as well as a Belted Leather Skirt.

Anthropologie’s Marceline Faux Leather A-Line Midi Skirt is a cute option if you prefer not to wear real leather.

7 More Reasons To Own A Little Black Skirt

1. Since the 1950s there has always been a version of the little black skirt in style. It’s not going away anytime soon.
2. It’s more versatile than the little black dress, as you have the option to wear it with a matching top or one in a different color.
3. Black can be a harsh color, so for many of us it’s better to wear it away from our faces.
4. A shorter length can make your legs look longer.
5. Black goes with everything!
6. You can wear most little black skirts with sandals, sneakers, booties or tall boots. (Again, lots of options!)
7. Most styles can be dressed up or dressed down.

Do you own a little black skirt? Leave me a comment and let me know how you style it!