Denim

An Oldie-But-Goodie Wardrobe Staple Is Staging a Comeback—Here's How to Wear It

Indya Brown  Tue, 14 Mar 2023  Who What Wear

It's true that fashion exists in one giant circle. Things that were deemed "over" just a few years ago are suddenly back in the spotlight, and trends that filled the industry's collective consciousness only last year have quietly subsided into the background. Eventually, they all come around again for another moment in the sun, so once a trend fades, it's usually a matter of when, not if, it will resurge among the masses. In the case of the denim skirt, that time is now.

This trend may give you flashbacks to images of Ashley Tisdale and Destiny's Child in Von Dutch and cowboy hats, but the denim skirt has changed a bit since then. It hasn't necessarily changed in its core shape or construction, but the main difference is in the way people are styling it in their daily uniforms.

Sure, you might think of the denim skirt as a summer staple, but there's certainly a case to be made for its seasonless appeal. Paired with everything from over-the-knee boots and oversize blazers to cowboy boots and stylish vests, there are more than a few denim-skirt outfits that belong in your closet this season. We're partial to adding lots of layers with bare legs or opting for a cropped, cool statement top. Really, the options are endless. Keep scrolling to see how everyone is styling the piece right now and to see the denim skirts we have on our shopping list.

A master of proportions and sumptuous fabrics, Dries Van Noten didn't present just any denim skirt this season—his take was a maxi-length version featuring a middle split and a weathered blue wash. The addition of an oversize gray blazer and silver boots feels decidedly cool yet effortless.

Meanwhile, over at Marques'Almeida, the denim skirt was envisioned in multiple ways during its F/W 21 show. Among the looks was one with a frayed hem and asymmetric buttons. The retail version includes the exact same silhouette and detailing with the addition of shiny silver studs. 

Channel your inner Cher Horowitz with a Chanel-style tweed blazer and a denim mini. 

It seems that Bella Hadid has found her niche within the Y2K fashion aesthetic, and this look here doesn't fall short. For a more classic approach, try pairing a denim mini with chunky rubber boots. 

If you're going to fully embrace the denim-skirt revival, you might as well go all the way with a coordinating set. 

Looking to add a denim skirt to your collection of staples? Cool. There are plenty of trendy and timeless options where that came from. These are some of the best out there for any budget.

Simple and understated.

How good is this?

Should you dare to go short this season.

We're so into the wash of this skirt. 

Pair this with a houndstooth blazer.

A good black denim miniskirt is a must-have.  

Zara's denim-skirt selection is next-level good. 

Not your average denim miniskirt. 

This is the perfect easy denim skirt for summer, and we love the price. 

We'd style this skirt with a white tank or bodysuit. 

Casual yet cool. 

Leave it to Isabel Marant to create a version that's both versatile and glamorous. 

This looks like a skirt Bella Hadid would be into. 

We like this mini option for a day party or brunch. 

One of our editors has this skirt hanging in their closet—it's that good. 

Yep, this is already in our cart.

Finally, you have something to wear with all those cowboy boots.

A Y2K option is always a good idea. 

Next up: The Underrated Yet Extremely Essential Fall Basic I'm Buying on the Cheap