How to Wear a Maxi Skirt When You’re Curvy?

Are you wondering what type of long skirt to choose to highlight your curves? What should you wear with this ultra-trendy piece?

You’re in the right place.

A few years ago, women with curvy figures were often excluded from the fashion world. Thankfully, that has changed, and more and more plus-size women are feeling beautiful and dressing with confidence.

However, wearing a long skirt can still be a source of stress for some. The key is to find the skirt style that flatters you the most: to help you out, I've put together this comprehensive guide on the topic!

There are plenty of flattering skirt styles for curvy women: pleated skirts, tutu skirts, as well as high-waisted and fitted options, and those featuring bold patterns (like flowers or geometric shapes…). Opt for loose, lightweight fabrics that add volume to your skirt while steering clear of anything too shiny or silky. Don’t hesitate to tuck your top into your skirt to define your silhouette, or consider wearing a crop top or a fitted jacket. Finally, to balance your outfit, remember to choose a skirt in a darker colour than your top!

Want to know more? Keep reading to discover:

• The most flattering long skirts to enhance your curves,
• Which fabric to choose,
• What top to wear with your long skirt and how to style it,
• What jacket to wear in winter with your long skirt,
• How to play with colours to elongate your silhouette.

Which Long Skirt to Choose if You're Curvy?

Have you ever fallen in love with a skirt only to be disappointed when you try it on because it just doesn’t suit your body shape? If so, you’re definitely not alone! It’s essential to understand which skirt style flatters your silhouette so you can feel beautiful and comfortable in your clothes! In the following lines, discover the most suitable cuts for a curvy figure.

A pleated maxi skirt

The fashionable pleated maxi skirt is perfect for summer and flatters most body shapes. It's ideal for everyday wear but can also be dressed up for special occasions. Super lightweight, it allows you to feel free in your movements without overheating. This skirt will suit you if you have a style that is both chic and casual, with a touch of bohemian flair that’s right on trend.

A light-coloured tutu skirt

The term “tutu skirt” refers to tulle skirts, inspired by the tutus worn by dancers. It’s a rather unique and stylish skirt design that suits curvy women, especially when opting for a longer cut. A solid-coloured tutu skirt will showcase your sense of fashion, particularly during formal occasions. If you have slightly wider hips or thighs – like in the case of an A-line silhouette, for example – it will allow you to play with proportions to highlight your figure by creating a very feminine flared outfit.

A skirt with a wide waist belt

Some skirts are designed with a wide waistband (at least 5 centimetres high) at the waist. These are often styles with bold or graphic prints, which are perfect for accentuating your feminine curves.

Be sure to check out the long wax skirts, a vibrant fabric from Africa that’s perfect for putting together a unique and stylish outfit.

A boho skirt with large flowers

Similarly, you could opt for a chic bohemian-inspired long skirt with a lovely floral print. Bold patterns will be more flattering on your silhouette than smaller details: treat yourself to choosing a style that you truly love, featuring large flowers, exotic foliage, or even more unique prints (fruits, animal motifs, etc.)!

This type of long skirt will be perfect for enjoying a lovely summer day, whether it's for a day out with friends, heading off on a holiday, or for a festive occasion.

Which material should you choose?

To feel inspired to wear an outfit every day, two key elements are essential: comfort and style. If you have a few curves, I recommend combining the two by choosing lightweight fabrics that add volume to your long skirt without weighing it down, such as tulle, cotton, or linen.

Choosing fabrics and cuts that tend to add volume might seem counterintuitive when you're aiming to enhance your figure, but it can actually help create a harmonious and highly feminine silhouette by balancing the width of your upper and lower body. Furthermore, with styles that aren’t too fitted, you’ll feel freer in your movements and more comfortable to move around.

👉 Avoid silky, stretchy fabrics: they may not be flattering as they tend to cling to curves and accentuate them, drawing attention away from the rest of your silhouette.

What top to wear with a long skirt when you're curvy?

Once you've chosen your skirt, it’s time to find the rest of your outfit. Here are some tips for finding the perfect top to match it:

🔸 If your long skirt has patterns, I recommend choosing a plain and simple top to make your skirt the focal point of your outfit. This also works with a plain skirt, but if it's white, consider opting for a top in a different shade to create some contrast.

🔸 If you have a defined waist and wider hips, such as an A or X shape, don’t hesitate to wear a cropped t-shirt with your skirt. Contrary to common belief, they’re not just for slim figures; in fact, they can highlight your bust and waist beautifully! If you'd rather not show too much skin, go for a style that sits just below the waist. 😉

🔸 You can also choose a classic top that you can tuck into your skirt. There are two ways to go about it:

• tucking it in only at the front, allowing it to fall over your hips and back,
• or tucking it fully into your skirt.

Choose the one that suits you best and in which you feel most comfortable!

🔸 Finally, if you’d like to wear a shirt or blouse with your long skirt, you can tie the ends together at your waist. This will help to balance your silhouette by elongating your legs and creating a V-neckline that highlights your bust.

What jacket to wear with a maxi skirt when you have curves?

It's always a good idea to bring a jacket, even a light one, to wear over your outfit, no matter the weather. If everything you wear matches harmoniously, you'll achieve a stylish look that highlights your good taste and sense of style.

With a long skirt, I recommend:

• a denim jacket that hits at the waist for a chic bohemian look,
• a cropped blazer in the same tones as the rest of your outfit, to create a smart and elegant ensemble,
• a jacket that isn't too long with a lovely print, such as a bomber or a light quilted vest, to add some texture to a plain outfit.

👉 In winter, also consider accessorising your outfit with a beret, a scarf, or a hat… It's important to strike a balance so your outfit looks stylish without going overboard. Try to wear matching accessories, and never go for more than two at a time on your upper body. 😉

How to Use Colours to Enhance Your Silhouette?

If your plus-size maxi skirt is in a bright or dark colour, you can create a very flattering slimming effect with a simple trick. Just choose a top that is lighter than the skirt to draw the eye towards the brighter colour and create a visual gradient.

If your skirt is white or a very light colour, I recommend opting for a light pastel top or a nude shade, matched with your shoes or accessories you’re wearing.

👉 Unless you’re a true expert in mixing colours and patterns, stick to just one print in your outfit. It can be your skirt or your top. In fact, it's often risky to combine different prints… The easiest way to find a colour to pair it with is to choose one of the following:

• the clearest, if the print is on your skirt,
• the least represented in the pattern.

You now have all the tools to show off your figure with a long skirt! Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone by trying out new outfits!

For some inspiration, feel free to check out our online store: you'll find all kinds of clothing, including original and flattering long bohemian skirts that suit every body shape. 😉

Bohemian Skirts