5 Skirt Trends That Always Work for Petites, According to a Fashion Editor and Stylist With Over 12 Years Experience |Best Knockoff Luxury Clothing

published 19 December 2024

As someone who's technically not classed as petite (I'm 5'4.5" so 1.5 inches above the maximum height), I do however know what it's like to be on the shorter side. Finding trousers of the right length can be a nightmare, dresses can sometimes drown me and don't even get me started on knee-high boots that actually sit below the knee caps. It can be quite a minefield, but as a stylist for over 12 years, I've navigated how to pinpoint a trend that'll actually suit petites. And just like dresses, skirts can often be a bit tricky, so I'm going to breakdown the styles that'll suit those who are shorter without having to only shop in the often limited petites sections.

Everything from animal print to suede skirts are key for winter, but if you're unsure of which lengths and styles to go for, then this is where I'm here to help. I've found the leather skirt that won't swamp a smaller frame, the one that'll work across all seasons and a classic that'll never ever fail for quite literally every occasion.

Keep going to the skirt trends for petites that'll become a mainstay in your wardrobe from here on out.

BEST SKIRT TRENDS FOR PETITES:

1. Leather A-line

Style Notes: Midi A-line skirts always look so expensive, and if you get one in luxe leather, you're only going to add to this. They look best sitting above your ankles rather than below the knee, so this works well for petites.

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ARKET

Panel Leather Skirt

Big fan of this rich charcoal grey version from Arket.

Jigsaw

Pleated Leather Skirt

Simply tuck in a roll neck knit and add knee-high boots.

M&S Collection

Leather Look Midi A-Line Skirt

The high street always pulls through with brilliant faux leather versions.

ME+EM

Panelled Leather Midi Skirt

The deep berry shade is a seasonal hit.

2. Mini

Style Notes: The joy of being shorter is that no mini skirt will ever be too short on you. The downside? They could end up being too long this is where you can either size down so they sit higher on your waist, or alternatively, find a great tailor who can adjust it for you.

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3. Knit Maxi Skirt

Style Notes: Synonymous with cooler months, of course knit skirts are a thing right now. Not only will the weighty material keep you cosy, if you invest in a maxi style then it'll also keep you warm from waist to toes. Depending on your height, you may want to buy a style listed as a 'midi' instead of a 'maxi'.

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Abercrombie

Sweater Maxi Skirt

There's also a matching knit top so you can recreate Monikh's look.

Whistles

Taupe Knitted Midi Skirt

Love this with glossy tall boots.

H&M

Flared Knitted Skirt

Winter whites always look elegant.

Sezane

Marilou Skirt

Sézane always nails knitwear of all kinds.

4. Bubble Hem

Style Notes: The bubble hem trend has made a lot of us feel nostalgic (you might remember it worn by the likes of Paris Hilton circa 2005), and it's back. Key for summer, these are also sticking around for winter. And the best part about this style is that th ruched hemline will lift the length of midi skirts to make sure they're the perfect fit.

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COS

Balloon-Hem Maxi Skirt

So chic.

ZARA

Dart Detail Balloon Midi Skirt

Anything brown gets a firm yes.

MANGO

Low-Rise Balloon Mini-Skirt

Add a nice top and heels for a party outfit.

ZARA

Balloon Mini Skirt

Try it with a jumper and tights.

5. Slip Skirt

Style Notes: Who What Wear's Editor in Chief, Hannah Almassi is on the petite side, and has stayed loyal to the slip skirt. Why? Because the universally flattering style with a stretch waist is so easy to place around the waist or hips depending on the length.

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Reformation

Lakisha Skirt

This colour looks so good with burgundy, brown and cream.