Skirts are swell — wear them well

Finally! The weather is starting to warm up, the sun is shining and the rain has subsided — for now, that is. I know a lot of you are thinking we mustn’t get ahead of ourselves. Seattle’s weather is quite unpredictable, but luck favors the prepared, and you wouldn’t want to be caught unaware when then sun ends up sticking around for the next few weeks. So, my lovely fashionistas, we must prepare for the springtime that is to come, and there are many fun new styles you can try out to look your best and boldest.

I won’t go over all the new trends with you today (what would I write about for next week?), but rather I’ll present a main staple that will carry you through the spring and summer that you should invest your style efforts on first. Skirts are the focus this season more than ever. The free-feeling nature and overall versatility of this item makes it a perfect centerpiece for any outfit and can be used in a variety of different styles. But we can’t get carried away — there are a few stylistic precautions a girl must take in order to pick out the best skirt.

The one thing to keep in mind for this season is the use of the higher waist. I know it sounds a bit absurd and outdated (‘70s, anyone?), but in terms of form, the higher the seam up the waist, the more flattering a skirt can become. Don’t get too overzealous and have the waist come just below your bust. Right above the hipline is the ideal location to have your skirt to start flowing. The good thing about having a skirt with a higher waistline is that it shows off the legs and makes them look longer.

The length of the skirt can vary to customize your own personal style. However, don’t make it too long. Right around the knee — a bit above or below — is the ideal area of length you want it to be.

In terms of what kind of skirt you want (the cut and flow, that is), practically every type is feasible. The stye that I’d put more emphasis on is the skirt that remains fitted from the waist to the hipline, then opens out and flows to the end, with a sort of pleated style. With these more conservative looking skirts, you want to keep the colors a solid tone; no floral or flashy patterns should contradict the style and cut of the skirt.

Another type would be the short, billowy style of skirt. These you can be more playful with your colors and hues. Large floral designs and even polka dots and stripes add enough flair to the simple design. Use big bright colors to make your skirt stand out from the rest of your outfit.

Now I’m sure many of you are wondering what to wear with your newly purchased skirts. With the dynamics of skirts, there are a plethora of opportunities to choose from. If anything, a simple long tank top can add just enough to a flashy skirt. Make sure the colors match, and if your skirt has a pattern, that your top is solid. You can have it tucked in or out, however you see fit.

For the more conservative pleated skirts, you might want to invest in a blouse or a nice light cardigan.

Belts are huge accessories for any skirt wearer. The best ones to look for this season are the thinner, more complementary kind. Try not to make it too big or too flashy, especially if you’re going to go for the more conservative look.