In My Opinion, Skirts Always Look Best When Worn With This Everyday Basic

When it comes to summer staples, skirts are high on the list of must-haves. Year after year, I spot so many variations become the trending piece of the season, from the '90s-inspired mini skirt to this year's cult item, the voluminous white style. And yet, whenever I've tried to style a skirt for myself, I've always found that it ends up looking too... polished, and just not very me. So, what can I pair them with to make them feel more low-key? The answer, as it turns out, is surprisingly simple—turn to a classic T-shirt.

@sylviemus_ wearing a white t-shirt, mini skirt and trench coat

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

From my extensive scrolling and street style observations, I've come to the conclusion that the beauty of the T-shirt and skirt pairing is how the two pieces balance one another out to create a look that feels truly effortless. This means that you can take even your most glamorous skirt—a silky slip or a tailored maxi—and make it feel low-fuss yet high-impact.

Opting for a T-shirt also means you have a versatile canvas that can be the basis for a multitude of looks—all you have to do is swap out the accessories. I've spotted many fashion people use colourful handbags or shoes to add a bold contrast to a monochromatic look, while others lean into the understated minimalist mood by styling with sleek sunglasses and sculptural necklaces.

Whether you're looking to incorporate skirts into your work or weekend, or both, here are 7 skirt and T-shirt outfits to inspire you to embrace the brilliantly easy formula.

7 Skirt and T-Shirt Outfits to Try This Season

1. Voluminous White Midi Skirt + Striped T-Shirt + Sandals

@ruerodier wearing a white skirt, striped t-shirt and sandals

(Image credit: @ruerodier)

Style Notes: The voluminous white midi skirt has become a signature summer 2024 piece, and Marissa's outfit is such a great example of how to style it in an effortless way.

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2. Denim Midi + Fitted T-Shirt

@isabellecoheen wearing a denim midi skirt and cropped t-shirt

(Image credit: @isabellecoheen)

Style Notes: Take inspiration from the 90s with this understatedly cool look. A long denim skirt is truly timeless, and keeps coming back in style year after year. Pairing it with a figure-fitting t-shirt gives it a very cool, model-off-duty vibe that I'm obsessed with.

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3. Mini Skirt + Graphic T-Shirt

@abimarvel wearing a graphic t-shirt and mini skirt

(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: I love everything about this look, from the matching mini skirt and bomber, to the graphic tee, to the chunky New Balance sneakers. The best thing about this outfit is that every piece can easily be mixed and matched with different styles to create a plethora of summer looks.

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4. Mini Skirt + T-Shirt + Blazer

@symphonyofsilk wearing a white t-shirt, mini skirt and blazer

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: For a more polished take on the mini skirt and t-shirt ensemble, follow @symphonyofsilk's example and turn to classic wardrobe staples like an oversized blazer and ballet flats. It's such an easy way to elevate this simple outfit.

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5. Black Maxi Skirt + White T-Shirt + Flip-Flops

@dawn.tan wearing a black skirt, flip-flops, t-shirt and raffia tote

(Image credit: @dawn.tan)

Style Notes: Dawn's outfit is proof that sometimes, simple really is best. The foundation of a black maxi skirt and a white t-shirt can form the basis of so many different looks to suit almost any occasion, but I particularly love this polished-yet-relaxed summer ensemble, complete with the very on-trend raffia tote.

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6. Sequin Skirt + Baggy T-Shirt

@livvperez wearing a pleated midi skirt and black t-shirt

(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Style Notes: Want to dare to wear some sparkle but worried about it looking too flashy? This is a perfect example of how you can use a t-shirt to make statement pieces feel more understated and effortless for weekend wear.

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7. Slip Skirt + Oversized T-Shirt

@cassklatzkow wearing a slip skirt and black t-shirt

(Image credit: @_jeanettemadsen_ )

Style Notes: As this outfit proves, an oversized t-shirt can help make the slinky slip skirt daywear-appropriate—and create an undeniably cool look. You could always make this more of an evening look by switching for a more fitted t-shirt and higher, strappy heels.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.