I have to get something off my…legs. I loathe wearing pants. There are few things I look forward to more than getting home and immediately stripping my legs of their fabric shackles to finally enjoy some fresh air after hours of suffocation. Ok, maybe I’m exaggerating (I do own an embarrassing amount of jeans and leather pants), but if shorts or skirts are a weather-and-activity-appropriate option, count me pant-less. And while I can appreciate denim cutoffs and mini skirts as much as the next girl, I’m beginning to enter that era of maturity where moments requiring fuller coverage do prove that “sometimes less [skin] really is more.” Which is why my spring and summer shopping is looking largely to mid-length skirts—also known as “midi' or “knee-length.” It’s time to embrace my femininity and try to sometimes look like a lady. (Ripped jeans and flannel button downs, don’t worry—I still love you.)
Altuzarra Miki Cotton Pencil Skirt : Did anyone see Secretary starring Maggie Gyllenhaal as a sadomasochistic nymphomaniac? Probably not the best example of workplace etiquette, but she did have the sexy, buttoned-up look down pat. Channel that prim sophistication with a healthy helping of sex appeal with this little number.
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Skirt with Holes : But maybe you’re looking for something a little less racy and more toward sweet side. The high-cut waist will keep you looking petite despite the full-volume skirt—a choice silhouette for us girls with a more 1950s-type figure.
Marc Jacobs Pleated Satin Skirt : For a skirt that instantly dresses up a casual ensemble, here you go. The low-slung waist and loose fit playing against the fancier fabric will make this skirt equally suitable for a day at the farmer’s market (because now that the sky's finally ceased with the snow thing, walking for fresh berries and flowers actually sounds like a lovely way to spend a Sunday) or one of the several weddings on your calendar this June.
J.Crew Seersucker Pencil Skirt : While I’m certainly a sucker (see what I did there?) for a good prepster indulgence, this classic stripe is fitting even for those allergic to cable knits and pearls. Perfectly fitted, this skirt is an easy option for a summer workday bottom, or if you buy in a slightly larger size, it's perfect as your from-the-beach-to-the-clam-bake outfit.
Rag & Bone Molly Skirt : And if you’re not wanting to hide the legs you SoulCycle-d all winter for, this form-fitting mini with a sheer midi overlay is the one for you.
—Elizabeth Brockway
