When it comes to summer dressing, finding that balance between comfort and elegance is my main priority. From simple tank tops to lightweight linen trousers, several sleek basics make their way into my summer capsule wardrobe every year. However, if there's one item that exudes easy sophistication more than anything else, it's a skirt.
Easy to dress up or down, skirts are a certified summer staple. Whether worn with suede sandals or leather flip-flops in the day, or with slingback heels for evenings out, you can get so much wear out of the right skirt.
Now, I'll be honest: I wear skirts no matter the weather or season. But I think we can all agree that they really come into their own throughout the warmer months. They're breezy enough to keep you cool in the hot weather and ensure you look put-together no matter the occasion. Not to mention, the beautiful silhouettes don't get hidden under thicker outerwear when summer comes around.
So, with sunny days finally here, I've started to think about which skirt styles I'll be buying to wear now and well into autumn. Whether you're after a slightly more trend-led silhouette for 2025 or prefer to opt for timeless classics that will stand the test of time in your wardrobe, below, I've rounded up the nine skirt styles worth investing in this season.
The Best Summer Skirts, According to a Fashion Editor
1. Classic White Poplin
Style Notes: I simply had to start with the most classic skirt style of them all: a white poplin skirt. This flowy, breezy silhouette can be worn with almost any top or blouse for an easy but polished summer look.
Shop White Poplin Skirts:
I've had my eye on this exact skirt for a while.
The semi-formal structure will allow you to look polished without feeling too overdone.
Dress this skirt down by pairing it with trainers or flat sandals.
2. Polka Dot
Style Notes: I'm been spotting polka-dot skirts everywhere at the moment. From pretty blouses and dresses to slinky polka-dot skirts, elegant dressers are very into this vintage-inspired print. You can't go wrong with a classic black-and-white polka dot, but there are also plenty of navy-and-cream iterations that look just as chic.
Shop Polka-Dot Skirts:
Dôen isn't just for beautiful summer dresses.
This knee-length iteration feels very 2025.
If you prefer a darker base shade, this is for you.
3. Long Linen
Style Notes: Linen season is finally upon us. Lightweight, breathable and effortlessly classy, a linen skirt will serve your summer wardrobe for many years to come. Not to mention, the 100% natural fabric ensures it'll only get softer with each wear.
Shop Linen Skirts:
This neutral hue is so easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe.
Wear with kitten heels, trainers, fisherman sandals… the styling possibilities are endless.
I love the asymmetric design of this maxi skirt.
4. Lace-Trim Slip
Style Notes: Lace has long been an established part of the summer uniform, but that doesn't mean it has to feel outdated for 2025. Simply opt for a lace-trim skirt as opposed to a full lace iteration, as these feel fresh for now yet will remain versatile enough to wear in the upcoming years.
Shop Lace-Trim Slip Skirts:
Proof that black midi skirts work in summer too.
I'm loving this light teal-green colour for warmer weather.
Rixo can do no wrong.
5. Tailored Mini
Style Notes: Ideal for the warmer weather, miniskirts offer breeziness and comfort without compromising style. Opt for a tailored version that you can wear with a dressy top or blazer for more formal occasions, or pair it with a simple tank or tee when you want to dress it down.
Shop Tailored Miniskirts:
This will pair seamlessly with a tank, blouse or simple tee.
So versatile.
I want the coordinating blazer as well.
Shop the matching Peplum-Waist Blazer (£145).
6. Gingham
Style Notes: Gingham skirts are nothing new, making their way back into our wardrobes each summer, but their ability to make an outfit look more interesting is undeniable. And the best part? There's something for everyone, from simple black-and-white iterations to bold red prints.
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This has such a retro vibe to it.
Ganni never lets me down.
For those more fond of vibrant shades, this red-and-white gingham print is perfect.
7. Sheer Lace
Style Notes: Don't be intimidated by the idea of a sheer skirt. This daring style allows you to add some character to your outfits without bearing the weight of a heavier fabric. They can also be super wearable, so long as you opt for longer silhouettes on your top half or layer them over skin-tight shorts or another skirt.
Shop Sheer Lace Skirts:
So pretty.
Zara is nailing this trend.
For a more sultry style, opt for a lace skirt in a deep, dark shade.
8. Denim
Style Notes: A lot less heavy than your jeans, but with the same ability to be dressed up or down with ease, a denim skirt is the perfect balance between timeless and cool. Although this is technically a year-round staple, summer offers the perfect opportunity to wear mini and midi styles.
Shop Denim Skirts:
A mini that's genuinely worth investing in.
A longline denim skirt will always look cool.
The frayed hem gives this just the right amount of edge.
9. Black Cotton
Style Notes: Black skirts bring an instant sense of elegance to any look. You might initially associate this colour with autumn or winter, but paired with classic summery items like a white blouse, this timeless style will look just as chic in the warmer months as well.
Shop Black Cotton Skirts:
This is best-seller for good reason.
A skirt you'll want to wear in and out of the office.
For those who like to stick to longer silhouettes.
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