If there's one piece dominating the fashion scene in Paris, London and New York right now, it's the grey skirt.
Whether styled with sharp tailoring or relaxed knitwear, grey skirts have quietly taken over the streets of the most fashionable cities, offering a sophisticated yet wearable alternative to your standard black or beige options. After spotting grey-skirt outfits on chic Parisians on the Left Bank and downtown Manhattanites with a minimalist edge, I couldn't help but notice how this one piece is evolving across different style capitals. Each city's approach to wearing a grey skirt is undeniably distinct, making it one of this season's most versatile pieces.
What makes the grey skirt so compelling is its adaptability. In Paris, it's often paired with clean lines—think midi skirts worn with structured blazers and slingback heels, exuding that effortless elegance the French are known for. Meanwhile, in London, where personal style leans towards the eclectic and experimental, you'll find grey skirts styled with chunky knits and knee-high boots, balancing practicality with trendiness.
In New York, it's all about sleek, workwear-inspired looks, like pencil skirts teamed with white shirts and pointed-toe heels, echoing early ’00s power dressing with a modern twist. Personally, I love a grey maxi skirt for its quiet-luxury appeal. I'll usually wear mine with a fitted cardigan and loafers for a modest, polished look. But after seeing someone in Soho pair a grey maxi with an oversized shirt and trainers, I made a mental note to try something a bit more unexpected next time.
The recent resurgence of grey skirts isn't just a street style phenomenon—it's been reinforced by runway trends too. Miu Miu, Prada and The Row all presented grey skirts in their autumn/winter 2024 collections, each offering a unique take on this understated piece. There's also something nostalgic about this comeback. The early-'00s office siren is back, and grey skirts are leading the charge in bringing that polished office-chic aesthetic to our everyday lives.
Below, I've curated five grey-skirt outfits that are trending right now. Whether you're after a high-street find or a designer investment, there's something for every wardrobe.
5 CHIC WAYS TO WEAR A GREY SKIRT
1. Grey Midi Skirt + Fitted T-Shirt + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: This look is all about balancing simplicity with statement-making footwear. Tuck a fitted tee into a classic grey midi skirt and add knee-high boots for a polished, fashion-forward finish. Perfect for transitional weather, this outfit works well with a trench coat draped over the shoulders for added drama. Opt for a soft jersey or ribbed T-shirt for a comfortable yet flattering fit, whilst tall boots in leather or suede will elevate the outfit and a sleek belt can help define the waist for a more tailored silhouette.
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Ultra-soft and ideal for layering.
A simple design with clean lines, perfect for everyday wear.
With a slight heel, these boots offer both style and comfort.
East-west bags are my favourite '00s revival trend.
2. Grey Knitted Skirt + Turtleneck + Slingback Heels
Style Notes: A knitted co-ord always looks elevated, and pairing a grey woollen skirt with a matching turtleneck creates a chic, monochromatic look. This outfit is ideal if you want to keep warm without sacrificing style. Keep accessories minimal to let the texture take centre stage. Add slingback heels for a sophisticated touch that keeps the outfit from feeling too casual.
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A versatile piece for any winter wardrobe.
Soft, stretchy and an elegant shape.
A timeless classic worth the investment.
A great way to cinch in more oversized knits.
3. Grey Herringbone Skirt + Grey Blazer + Mesh Heels
Style Notes: This tonal outfit channels the polished elegance of Parisian street style. A grey herringbone skirt paired with an oversized blazer creates a powerful silhouette, whilst mesh heels keep things fresh and modern. When styling a tonal look, play with textures—mixing thicker fabrics with tailored pieces creates depth.
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Marks and Spencer's Autograph range always does cashmere well and at a good price point.
High-quality French tailoring with a luxe finish.
This blazer is a cult classic for a reason.
A playful twist on classic black slingback pumps.
4. Grey Maxi Skirt + Cropped Cardigan + Loafers
Style Notes: For those who lean towards modest dressing, this outfit is a perfect choice. A grey maxi skirt paired with a cropped cardigan offers a modern take on covered-up style. Loafers add a preppy touch that bridges the gap between polished and cool. My tip is to keep the cardigan slightly fitted to balance out the flowy silhouette of the maxi skirt.
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Affordable and versatile, this is a great high-street find.
A basic that deserves a place in everyone's wardrobe.
Reformation's flowing Lucy Skirt adds a soft, feminine touch.
An iconic staple that deserves a spot in your shoe rotation.
5. Grey Pencil Skirt + Shirt + Black Heels
Style Note: Channeling early-'00s office style, this outfit features a sleek grey pencil skirt styled with a crisp shirt. It's ideal for workwear but can easily transition into after-hours by adding statement earrings. For a modern twist, consider an oversized shirt tucked into a high-waisted pencil skirt. Black heels keep things timeless, but you can also swap them for pointed flats for a more comfortable option.
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Tuck it in or wear it loose.
A beautifully long tailored option.
I find heels with ankle straps so comfortable to walk in, and there's that added security that they won't slip off.
The gold buckle will help break up this fully grey look.
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