I'm 5'2" and Obsessed With Wearing Maxi Skirts—Here's Why

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(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 a little 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 work for my petite 5'2" frame, and others feel off the table!

If that last sentence resonated with you, stick with me for a minute. The maxi-skirt trend in 2024 not only suits we petite folks but also checks all the above boxes and more—it's because the silhouettes are less voluminous and bohemian than previous years. This is less about a tiered, hippy maxi and more about sleek lines in slimmer cuts and plain fabrics. I'm aware of the fact that maxi skirts can, on petite people, come up too long. So I'd suggest looking for styles that appear to graze the ankles of the ecommerce models or you can often find a long midi is just the perfect length—you may have to try on a few iterations to get it right (or make good friends with your local tailor) but whether you splurge on a designer style or find a perfect fit at 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 favourites along the way. Just keep scrolling to get started. 

HOW TO STYLE MAXI SKIRTS:

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(Image credit: @cassklatzkow)

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

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(Image credit: @ciaracherise)

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

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(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

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

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

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

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(Image credit: @dinahansen)

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

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(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.

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

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

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(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.

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(Image credit: @gosiaboy)

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

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(Image credit: @honeybelleworld)

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

SHOP THE BEST MAXI SKIRTS FOR PETITES:

Next Up: Long Denim Skirts Are Big News for 2023—17 of the Best for Every Budget

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear US 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.