Denim skirt outfit ideas: Styling tips from the experts

When it comes to denim skirt outfit ideas we are spoilt for choice with styling options that will work for any occasion. Easy to dress up or down, you won't regret adding this dreamy denim piece to your closet.

If you're looking to add some new season denim pieces that will up-style your wardrobe in a flash, put aside the latest jean silhouettes for a moment and consider a jean skirt instead. One of the biggest denim trends 2022 has on offer, the denim skirt made a return to the runway and subsequently our wardrobe, coming in every length, wash and style imaginable, meaning that when it comes to denim skirt outfit ideas, the options are endless. 

From floor sweeping maxis and fitted pencil styles to thigh skimming minis, there’s a denim skirt out there to suit every taste and body shape. And when it comes to jean skirt outfit ideas, whether you're looking to dress the look up or down, with the correct wash, your denim skirt can be spun for multiple events. Offering a smarter and more feminine finish than jeans, learning what to wear with a denim skirt will show you how versatile the look is. 

Denim skirt outfit ideas - what to wear with a denim skirt

1. How to style a long denim skirt

If you’re a fan of long skirt outfit ideas, why not try a floor sweeping denim skirt style for summer? Denim is traditionally a heavy fabric so if you’re looking for what to wear in the heat, opt for chambray - a lighter, fine denim fabric, it will be more comfortable in the hot weather or one in a pale wash, as lighter colors absorb heat less. Like other maxi styles, it’s important to get the proportions right, particularly if you’re petite.

Paula Moore, Fashion Director at woman&home says “look for options that sit higher up on your torso, with the waistband at the narrowest point of your waist. Tuck in a fitted tee and add pretty, flat sandals for a stylish late summer look.”

Styling tip...

One of the big Fall fashion trends 2022, swap to a heavier grade denim as temperatures cool and add your best sweater and boots for a runway-worthy look.

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2. How to style a knee length denim skirt

If you’re looking for a smart take on the wardrobe classic, look for a knee length denim skirt. While many denim skirts come in a light wash, a dark indigo wash will also help your denim skirt look more grown-up and make it instantly more appropriate for smart occasions, such as office attire. The dark denim will look great with heels for dressier days and with your best white trainers for weekends.

Rivkie Baum, fashion editor of womanandhome.com has this tip when it comes to styling a knee length denim skirt: “When it comes to a knee length denim skirt, an A-line design will be universally flattering on hips, bum and midriffs. Team with a fitted top half to balance your proportions and tuck in your top or blouse to highlight your waistline.”

Styling tip...

Try adding a chunky gold chain necklace to this outfit for extra style points.

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3. How to style a black denim skirt

Deciphering what to wear with black jeans will help you in your quest for black denim skirt outfit ideas and there really are countless ways to style one. From wearing with your best hoodies and sweatshirts on casual days to pretty button up blouses and blazers for nights out, a black denim skirt will be your new wardrobe savior. For a Parisian feel, try styling your black denim skirt with a Breton top and a stylish pair of the best sunglasses plus a slick of bright red lipstick - et viola, trés chic!

Styling tip

“A black denim skirt is a great wardrobe staple as you can wear it bare-legged in the warmer months, and with tights and boots as the weather cools.” says Farrah-May Archer Boadi, Styling Team Lead at Stitch Fix UK

4. How to style a white denim skirt

A white denim skirt is a great addition to your summer wardrobe. As a neutral, it will work with almost every color combination but why not try using it as a base for a tonal outfit and nail how to style oversized shirts with a linen iteration, tucked in at the front and style with gold accessories for a great holiday outfit idea. A tan leather belt is a great finishing touch to make you feel pulled together.

To keep your skirt as snowy and pristine as possible, avoid wearing it with dark dyed items such as tote bags or leather jackets that might rub off and stain your skirt.

Styling tip...

Farrah-May says “In terms of versatility, white midi or maxi skirts transition well into the autumn months, as you can wear them with trainers in the summer, or with knee high boots and a roll neck later in the year.”

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5. How to wear a short denim skirt

Think you can’t wear a short denim skirt? Think again. The key to short denim skirt outfit ideas at any age is to balance out just how much skin you’re showing. So if you opt for a shorter skirt, team it with a higher neckline as the perfect accompaniment to a short denim skirt. For the winter months, swap your floaty top for your best cashmere sweater and knee high boots to even out the proportions of your outfit.

Styling tip...

Paula says “if you feel self-conscious in a short skirt, try adding 10 denier tights to your outfit to streamline your look or take inspiration from Gucci and add some fun with a pair of patterned tights - polka dots are a fun and stylish addition.”

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6. How to style a midi denim skirt

If you love midi length skirts and dresses, you won’t regret adding a midi denim skirt to your collection. The perfect replacement for your best jeans, this skirt will quickly become the hardest working piece in your wardrobe. An A-line shape is the most universally flattering as it will skim over your hips.

Farrah-May says: “A-line knee length skirts have more of a Parisian feel to them and look chic with a striped tee, pointed flats and of course, a red lip to complete the look. If my clients are looking for a longer length style, I always look out for button down skirts, or those that have a split at the front/side as this creates a more laid back, yet sophisticated look - and it’s much easier to walk!” 

Styling tip...

Looking for more denim midi skirt outfit ideas? On warm days, simply add your best t-shirt and a pair of sandals and once temperatures drop, take a tip from the runways and go for a '70s inspired style - add a polo neck and heels for an office appropriate look.

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7. How to style a pencil denim skirt

Denim skirt outfit ideas might not traditionally be considered the pinnacle of chic but when they come in a pencil shape cut, the cowgirl favorite gets a slick office-appropriate makeover. Pencil denim skirts are definitely a grown up option and with a sharp shape, these are best worn with a pair of heels and a fitted top half to your outfit, for well-contoured curves. Try teaming darker hued denim in washed black or indigo with a fitted top and your best blazer for a fashion forward workday outfit.

Farrah-May says: “Knee length denim skirts in a fitted, pencil skirt style have a distinctly '70s feel about them and look effortlessly chic with knee high boots and a loose fitting blouse, tucked in at the waist. Tucking the blouse into the skirt is a great way to emphasise your waistline and create a more defined silhouette. 

Styling tip

For a streamlined silhouette, try teaming your skirt with a fitted or cropped blazer. Add a structured bag for an office-friendly outfit - who said you can’t wear denim to work?

8. How to style a blue denim skirt

If you’re looking for a way to update your favorite blue denim skirt, try teaming it with more denim. Once derided as deeply uncool, double denim has made a comeback in recent years. Discover how to wear a denim shirt with a jean skirt in a similar shade of blue to create the silhouette of a dress for a quick and easy outfit update - just leave the cowboy boots at home for this one! Instead, why not try a sleek pair of heeled knee-high boots or some cool canvas sneakers.

Styling tip...

Rivkie says “Denim on denim is back and we're pretty thrilled about it. Opt for sleek, fitted silhouettes to take this look from Noughties to now and keep accessories minimal and muted. A midi or longer denim skirt will look instantly more elegant and less Wild West when teamed with a tailored denim shirt.”

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