I'm 5'2" and Obsessed With the Maxi-Skirt Trend—Here's Why
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.
Even without actual belt loops, the belt makes this outfit particularly cool.
This is exactly how I'd style a maxi skirt for a casual night out. Just add a tank top!
I love the mix of white and creams here. With or without the jacket, it's the perfect summer look.
Any trend that looks good with a blazer automatically gets a leg up. It doesn't get any easier than this.
A lesson in styling even the simplest pieces to perfection: Wear your white maxi with a white sweater and your favorite black accessories.
If you're looking for an even cooler take, look to cargo details—they make everything better.
Take it from the chicest in the game—this trend is worth your time and money.
Don't think I forgot about my denim lovers. Jean versions are definitely included.
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.
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.
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. Upon joining, she was a senior about to graduate from business school at USC. Fast-forward to 2025, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was just starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content and her Trust Me—Buy This newsletter. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to neutral, classic pieces but will always make an exception for something colorful or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a party is dressing up for one. On her downtime, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious and trying to force her husband to watch Summer House.
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Spring Outfits from Zara, Mango, and Nordstrom—You're Welcome
Outfits for everything from a wedding to brunch.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Sunscreen Filters Abroad Are Totally Elite—Here's Why They're Not Available in the U.S. Yet
It's a bummer, but I have hope.
By Shawna Hudson
-
The Chicest European Women Have Convinced Me to Try This Effortless Accessory
Simple yet so elevated.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Jamie Mizrahi's World: The Celeb Stylist's Favorite Red Carpet Look, Most Worth-It Shoe, and Album She Listens to on Repeat
A modern-day style expert.
By Allyson Payer
-
It's Starting to Look Like This Skirt Color Will Upend Last Year's White-Skirt Trend
Ready for a change?
By Allyson Payer
-
How Everyone Will Be Wearing Their Non–Skinny Jeans This Spring
Here's your outfit inspiration.
By Michelle Scanga
-
Suddenly, Women With The Row Style Are Breaking This Fashion Rule
You should too.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFW
Let's dive in.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—One of My Chicest NYC TikTok Follows Shared 30 of Her Top Winter Picks From Nordstrom
Of course, I want everything Martine Lavelle recommends.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears Today
A true fashion icon.
By Judith Jones