As much as I've waxed lyrical this summer about the trending A-line white skirt, I'll be the first to admit that the trend probably has about as much staying power as the denim skirt trend did only a couple of years ago. So, it won't come as anything revolutionary, but I'm focusing on investing in timeless staples, in an effort to not only cut down my spending, but also the Vinted pile I have sitting in my bedroom. When it comes to skirts, there might be plenty of timeless styles that come to mind; a classic black mini, a pleated midi or a wrap skirt - but there's only one skirt that's timeless and will keep you cool.
A linen skirt comes with such ease that no other skirt can possibly compare. Throw it on over the top of a bikini for a morning swim at the beach, button up a linen shirt over the top for lunch, or dress up for dinner; there's pretty much no occasion, at least in the summer months, that a linen skirt doesn't work for. And, the most affordable and quintessentially European-on-holiday linen skirt I've found comes from Uniqlo. Its Linen Blend Skirt has a simple silhouette and features plenty of easy-going details, like a comfortable elasticated waist and slight flare at the hem.
Uniqlowww.uniqlo.com
Uniqlo's skirt is made from a linen-blend fabric, which means it drapes nicely and doesn't have an irritating heavyweight to it. A simple silhouette, but one that can be dressed up or down nonetheless, the Linen Blend Skirt also has an elasticated waist and maxi length.
Styling a linen skirt, when it's as good as Uniqlo's, is super easy. If in any doubt, the hack to wearing linen is pairing it with something equally as breezy. Team a linen skirt with a ruffled or boho-esque blouse and finish with platform sandals or even toe-ring sandals for a throw-on-and-go everyday outfit (it's also office-appropriate, too). Another way to style a linen skirt that's fit for meandering round cafes, markets and vintage stores is to wear it with a basic tank top (I head to H&M for mine), white socks and chunky black loafers. For an evening affair, pair the skirt with a waistcoat top and add a pair of kitten heels to polish the look.
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
If you prefer to lean into brighter colours in the summer, Uniqlo's classic Linen Blend Skirt also comes in a chartreuse colourway. Style with other equally bright colours and a few chunky bangles.
There you have it, proof that not all linen skirts are created equal. While the fabric has long been (somewhat unfairly) cast as crinkly and high-maintenance, Uniqlo's Linen Blend Skirt, with its breezy shape and elasticated waist, changes that. Suddenly, ironing doesn't seem like such a chore - or maybe, with a skirt this good, you won't mind a few creases anyway.
Shop: Is Your Size Out Of Stock? Here Are Some Other Great Alternatives
COS www.cos.com
COS also offers a great linen skirt, made from a similar linen-blend material. A style that's fit for the warmer weather, its black colour makes it extremely versatile, whether you're pairing it with a baby tee and ballet flats, or with a blouse and loafers.
Alignealigne.co
Aligne's take on a linen skirt is, as you'd expect from the brand, tailored yet floaty. It features a back slit and zip, as well as dart detailing at the waistband. Plus, it's available in two easy-to-style colours - white and black.
Massimo Dutti www.massimodutti.com
If you prefer your linen skirt to have a bit more shape to it, Massimo Dutti's iteration is the one for you. Finished with a zip fastening at the back, the skirt is perfect for pairing with sheer vest tops and platform sandals.
Main image credit: Instagram/@trinekjaer_
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.