I've found that when you tell people something is viral, there are two very different responses. The first group tends to avoid said viral item because the idea of matching with half of the high street makes for, in their eyes, a fashion faux pas. Others (and perhaps the most popular response) embrace it with open arms, not just buying it once, but hunting down every colourway, every restock, and every iteration until the wardrobe can't possibly fit anymore. I learnt which camp I was in when Marks & Spencer released its (now viral) Belted Midaxi Waisted Dress. I tried on the dress just yesterday, and, with its belted middle that looks like it could've been plucked from the rails at Ganni, it's safe to say I left with the dress in a shopping bag on my arm. Now, the brand has reworked those very same details into another item that's every bit as good - meet the Belted Midaxi Skirt.
M&S' Belted Midaxi Skirt is the next item I'm predicting will be a sell out - especially if you consider the fact the dress version is almost gone, even though it was only released at the beginning of the week. The skirt features the punkish double-belted waist, as well as that vibrant pink colour that rivals Piccioli's autumn/winter 2022 Valentino runway which was, of course, drenched in the shade.
M&S www.marksandspencer.com
If you didn't manage to get your hands on the viral M&S pink dress, the brand has just released a skirt version - the good news is that it's still in stock. With belted eyelet detailing and a flattering midaxi length, style with ballet flats and a baby tee.
The M&S pink Belted Midaxi Skirt can be styled in two very different ways. Lean into the punkish features of the skirt (the double belts and silver eyelets) by pairing it with a pair of chunky biker boots, a tank top and gold bangles - the contrast of the girly, Barbie colourway and the grit of darker accessories will keep the look from feeling overly twee. Or, for the everyday, soften the skirt with a crisp white baby tee and toe-ring or platform sandals. When the temperature drops, you could always throw a knit or trench coat over the top of the ensemble, too.
Although M&S' pink dress might've been the original sell-out, the Belted Midaxi Skirt feels like the next inevitable addition - and the piece that turns a one-hit wonder into more. I, for one, have officially admitted defeat: between the black iteration, the original pink and now the skirt, my wardrobe is starting to look like a costume rail from the set of Greta Gerwig's Barbie (or what I'd imagine it to look like, anyway). And I'm not complaining, but you might be if you miss out on this skirt - and at this rate, it's destined to sell out fast.
Shop: Your Size Out Of Stock? You'll Love These Alternative Pink Skirts
Free Peoplewww.freepeople.com
Free People's Lowen Midi Skirt is one of the best on the high street, whether you choose to go for it in white or a pop of pink. With a comfortable elasticated waistband and easy pull on design, you're going to want to have this skirt in your wardrobe this summer.
H&Mwww2.hm.com
H&M's pink skirt offering comes in the form of its Cotton Poplin Skirt, which is both cool and modest. With a calf-length that's perfect for showing off a new pair of sandals or ballet flats, the skirt also features a concealed zip and godet pleats for a flared shape.
Zarawww.zara.com
Zara's pink skirt features a slightly lower, mid-rise waist that looks so chic when paired with a waistcoat-style top. The darts at the front bring a slightly more polished edge, and the A-line hem keeps the style breezy.
Net-A-Porterwww.net-a-porter.com
Tibi's pink skirt is everything you'd want from an investment piece. The asymmetric hem means the skirt looks modern, while the slanted seams elevate it beyond your average midi skirt. All that's left is to pair it with a kitten heel and a ruffled blouse.
Main image credit: Instagram/@marksandspencer_sam, @fellaby, Grazia/Gemma Lavers
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.