Often, the most versatile items in our wardrobes are obvious to us. Blue jeans? No brainer. White tee? A ride-or-die staple. But some less-talked-about pieces ooze quiet confidence, sneaking into countless everyday outfits without us even noticing.
I'm thinking of one item in particular: The humble black skirt. I realised recently that when I'm not wearing jeans or loosely tailored trousers, this is what I reach for to build my outfits from. And the true beauty of the black skirt is that it comes in myriad forms. From slinky satin iterations to leather minis, there's a skirt for every occasion.
While trends might dictate which one you choose on a particular day (right now, I'm searching for the perfect pleated midi), the right black skirt will never date. Not yet convinced? Keep scrolling to see seven outfits that prove just how multi-faceted this simple style is.
7 Effortless Black Skirt Outfits to Try this Season:
1. Neutral Trench + Midi Pencil Skirt + Pointed Mules
Style Notes: Amalie Moosgaard Nielsen shows off the ideal spring look. Practical and classy in equal measure, it demonstrates just how elegant a black pencil skirt is.
Shop the Look:
I want this Sezane trench in every shade (there are eight, by the way).
Selling fast, so snap it up while you can.
A great alternative to stilettos.
2. Black Blazer + Poplin Skirt + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Team a sultry all-black fit with elegant ballet flats and a rich-looking leather bag, like Hanna.
Shop the Look:
We expect to see oversized silhouettes everywhere in 2025.
Layer it under a blazer until the temperature rises sufficiently to show off some skin.
This sells out every year.
A cult favourite.
3. Trench + A-Line Mini Skirt + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: Even I, a monochrome loyalist, can see that Lea has made a strong case for brown suede and neutral hues. It really pops against the black.
Shop the Look:
This is at the top of my wishlist.
COS's top selection is always filled with winners.
A staple buy you'll get boundless wear out of.
A brown suede boots is surprisingly versatile, plus you cab wear them in any season.
This is Lea's exact bag.
4. Tan Blazer + Leather Maxi Skirt + White Boots
Style Notes: Tap into the leather trend with a sleek midi style, then add a blazer into the mix to keep things classic. Thanks for the tip, Stephanie.
Shop the Look:
The perfect colour to pair with neutrals and brights alike.
Vegans can enjoy this one, too.
A simple white ankle boot like the above will go with everything in your wardrobe.
5. Tube Top + Slip Skirt + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: We couldn't have an outfit round-up without including a glowing example of French style. And it just so happens that Parisians love a black skirt as much as we do—well, Sylvie does, at least.
Shop the Look:
This will also look super chic with blue jeans or shorts.
Choose a wool iteration to see you into spring.
The comfier the heel, the better.
6. Leather Jacket + Denim Skirt + Ankle Boots
Style Notes: Julie strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual with this black and ensemble that mixes casual-cool and smart suiting.
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Good luck not wearing this everywhere.
The classics never get boring.
Prepare for compliments.
7. White Shirt + Pleated Midi + Mary Janes
Style Notes: I keep seeing pleated midi skirts recently, and I especially love how Marina has styled hers with a simple tank, button-up shirt and Mary Jane flats.
Shop the Look:
You'll get so much wear out of this trend-proof piece.
A Who What Wear UK-editor favourite.
Thanks to COS, you can try out this trend affordably.
Simple, but so very effective.
So dreamy.
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