This Skirt Trend Used to Be “Tacky”—Now People Are Making It Look So Elegant

Saying that skirts are back for 2024 might sound like a weird statement to make because, well, they never really left. However, I think it’s fair to say that, for the past couple of years, trousers have dominated the fashion space and the wardrobes of influential dressers. As a consequence, skirts have taken a bit of a backseat. However, fast forward to 2024 and the spring/summer runways shifted the focus back onto skirts—according to fashion data analysts at Tagwalk, there were 18% more skirt looks than the previous spring/summer season. As such, we’re starting to see the effects of this. Searches for skirts have been spiking on Google since the start of the year, with pencils and pleated midis being just some of the trends we’ve seen come through. As we edge ever closer to spring, hemlines have begun to rise with skirt going mini, and there’s one style I keep seeing over and over. 

Mini kilts might not sound like the most elegant trend of the season but, trust me, this long-beloved skirt is back.Whilst traditional kilts have been around for hundreds of years, they have ebbed and flowed in popularity for the past few decades. Mini iterations might have some tacky school-girl Halloween costume connotations to shake off too but, this season, the fashion set is doing a great job of reframing this skirt style, pairing it with classic pieces and current trends alike to give it a modern edge.

Styling well with everything from chunky knits and colour-pop polos to silk shirts and sleek wool jackets, the mini kilt trend is surprising versatile—admittedly more so than I thought. So, to take this wardrobe staple firmly into the new season with you, read on to discover how to style a mini kilt in an elegant and fresh fashion for 2024. 

Style Notes: For a chic winter look that feels very 2024, opt for a cool grey mini kilt and style it with a light, tonal outfit. Complete with semi-sheer tights and knee high boots.

This lightweight coat is perfect for transeasonal styling.

A grey jumper is a wardrobe staple you’ll keep coming back to.

The grey colour trend is taking off this season. Wear with colourful tights, or style with a classic black pair.

Style Notes: Contrast a luxe leather finish by styling a leather kilt with your favourite knit. To keep you look feeling polished and poised, swap your rounded-toe ballet flats for a sharper (and chicer) pair.

Style with your favourite jeans, or wear with a mini skirt on warmer days.

With a built-in buckle detail, this leather skirt is at the top of my wishlist.

Pointed-toe flats are the easiest way to add a polished edge to a casual outfit.

Style Notes: There’s no better way to put the 2024 stamp on your new-season outfit than by incorporating a pop of red. For a cool-weather take style with knee high boots and a long-line blazer.

This cashmere jumper comes in four other colours.

Wear with a white button down or style wit a roomy knit.

Knee high boots are a wardrobe staple you’ll never get bored of.

Style Notes: Wearing three trends in one look might sound over the top but, as Langas proves, if you stick to a tonal palette, you can pile them up. Her brown leather jacket might feel current, but the hue is just as timeless as black. The addition of a studded belt? That’s so 2024. 

This leather jacket always sells out. 

Every fashion editor has this belt on their wish list. 

This skirt comes in a diverse range of sizes. 

Style Notes: Whether you opt for silk or satin, a shirt in a liquid-like fabric will instantly elevate the preppy silhouette of a mini kilt. For even more polish, carry a top-handle bag. 

This blouse comes in an array of colours. Take your pick! 

This skirt is thicker than it looks, making it ideal for the cooler months. It’s also quite roomy, so I’d recommend sizing down. 

In a word? Classy. 

Up Next: The Editor-Approved “Risky” Skirt Trend That Is Replacing Jeans This Winter