I'm 5'2" and Obsessed With the Maxi-Skirt Trend—Here's Why

Woman wearing a silk maxi skirt with black ballet flats, a striped sweater, and a black Celine crossbody bag.

(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

If you thought all trends were created equal, think again. Some are ultra wearable, and others look like they were made only to be posted on Instagram. Some are accessible at a range of prices, and others can often feel out of reach. Some trends come around and last for seasons upon seasons, while others fizzle out before you even considered buying in. And of course, some flatter my petite 5'2" frame, and others are off the table!

If that last sentence resonated with you, stick with me for a minute. The maxi-skirt trend not only suits us petite folks but also checks all the above boxes and more. Whether you splurge on a designer style or snag an H&M or Zara iteration, you'll wear your purchase for months to come and be so glad you bought in. Looking for proof? Below, you'll see how to style the maxi skirt for all types of occasions, from casual to dressy, and get a chance to shop my favorites along the way. Just keep scrolling to get started.

Dina Hansen wearing a sheer black skirt, a long black jacket, mesh flats, a black belt, and a black top handle bag.

(Image credit: @dinahansen)

Even without actual belt loops, the belt makes this outfit particularly cool.

A woman wearing a gray maxi skirt, black tank top, and black handbag.

(Image credit: @cassklatzkow)

This is exactly how I'd style a maxi skirt for a casual night out. Just add a tank top!

Anne Laure Mais wearing a cream maxi skirt with a ribbed top, leather jacket, and cream crossbody bag.

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

I love the mix of white and creams here. With or without the jacket, it's the perfect summer look.

Cass Dimicco wearing a gray maxi skirt with a matching blazer and white crop top.

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

Any trend that looks good with a blazer automatically gets a leg up. It doesn't get any easier than this.

Sasha Mei wearing a white maxi skirt, a cream sweater, and a black shoulder bag.

(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

A lesson in styling even the simplest pieces to perfection: Wear your white maxi with a white sweater and your favorite black accessories.

Ciara Cherise wearing a lightweight maxi skirt with sneakers, a crop top, and a puffer jacket.

(Image credit: @ciaracherise)

If you're looking for an even cooler take, look to cargo details—they make everything better.

Sylvia Mus wearing a cream maxi skirt with gray socks, gray sandals, and a black sweater.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Take it from the chicest in the game—this trend is worth your time and money.

A woman wearing a denim maxi skirt with a leather jacket.

(Image credit: @gosiaboy)

Don't think I forgot about my denim lovers. Jean versions are definitely included.

A woman wearing a black maxi skirt with a leather jacket and pointed toe heels.

(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

For a non-basic night-out look that will stop people in their tracks, style a low-rise black maxi skirt with a motorcycle jacket and pumps.

A woman wearing a black maxi skirt, Adidas Samba sneakers, and a turtleneck sweater.

(Image credit: @honeybelleworld)

For everyone who wants to upgrade their casual style, copy this look immediately.

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Editor-at-Large

Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2024, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch Summer House.