How to Wear a Long Skirt When You're Curvy?

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

You're in the right place.

A few years ago, women with curvy figures were often left out of the fashion world. Fortunately, 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 people. The key is to find the skirt style that flatters you the most: to help you with this, I've put together this complete guide just for you!

There are many flattering skirt styles for curvy women: pleated skirts, tutu skirts, high-waisted fitted styles, and those with bold patterns (flowers, geometric shapes…). Opt for loose, lightweight fabrics that add volume to your skirt, 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 short 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 find out:

• 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,
• Which jacket to wear in winter with your long skirt,
• How to play with colours to slim your silhouette.

Which long skirt should you choose when 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 shape? If so, you're definitely not alone! It’s essential to know which skirt styles are flattering for your body shape, so you can feel beautiful and comfortable in your clothes! In the following sections, discover the most suitable cuts for a curvy silhouette.

A pleated maxi skirt

Super on-trend, the long pleated skirt is perfect for summer and flatters most body shapes. It's ideal for everyday wear as well as special occasions. Very light, it allows you to be free to move without overheating. It's just the thing for you if you have a style that’s both chic and casual, a bit bohemian, and in tune with the current vibe.

A light-coloured tutu skirt

The term “tutu skirt” refers to tulle skirts, inspired by the tutus worn by dancers. This is a rather unique yet stylish skirt style that suits curvy women especially well when it's a longer cut. A plain tutu skirt highlights your fashion sense, particularly at formal events. If you have wider hips or thighs—like in an A-line silhouette, for example—this skirt will allow you to play with proportions to enhance your figure by creating a beautifully flared, feminine 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 featuring bold or graphic prints, which are perfect for accentuating your feminine curves.

Be sure to check out the long wax skirts, this vibrant African fabric that is perfect for putting together a unique and stylish outfit.

A bohemian skirt with large flowers

In the same spirit, you might choose a chic bohemian-inspired long skirt with a lovely floral print. Bold patterns will flatter your figure more than small details: treat yourself by selecting a style you truly love, featuring large flowers, exotic foliage, or even more unique prints (like fruits, animal patterns…)!

This type of long skirt is perfect for enjoying a lovely summer day, whether you're heading out with friends, going on holiday, or celebrating a special occasion.

Which material should you choose?

To want to wear an outfit every day, two 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 making it heavy, such as tulle, cotton, or linen.

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

👉 Avoid stretchy (elastic) silky and shiny fabrics: they may not be flattering, as they tend to cling to your curves and accentuate them too much, which can detract from the overall balance 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 pairing it with a simple, solid-coloured top to make your skirt the standout piece of your outfit. This also works with a solid-coloured skirt, but if it’s white, consider choosing a top in a different shade to create contrast.

🔸 If you have an accentuated waist and wider hips, with an A or X-shaped silhouette for example, don't hesitate to wear a cropped t-shirt with your skirt. Contrary to what one might think, they're not just for very slim girls: on the contrary, they highlight your bust and waist nicely! If you prefer not to show too much skin, opt for a style that falls just below the waist. 😉

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

• tucking it in at the front only, allowing it to drape over your hips and the back,
• tucking it completely into your skirt.

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

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

What jacket to wear with a long skirt if you have curves?

It's always a good idea to have a jacket, even a light one, to throw over your outfit, regardless of the weather. If everything you wear coordinates nicely, you'll achieve a polished look that showcases your good taste and sense of style.

With a long skirt, I recommend:

• a denim jacket that sits at the waist, for a chic bohemian look,
• a fitted blazer in shades that match the rest of your outfit, to create a smart and elegant ensemble,
• a shorter jacket with a lovely print, like a bomber or a small 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 achieve a balance so your outfit looks stylish without being over the top. Try to wear matching accessories, and never more than two at a time on your upper body. 😉

How to Play with Colours to Enhance Your Silhouette?

If your plus-size long skirt is in a bright or dark colour, you can create a slimming effect that's very flattering with a simple trick. Just choose a top that is lighter than your 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 that complements your shoes or the jewellery and accessories you're wearing.

👉 Unless you're a true expert in matching colours and patterns, stick to just one print in your outfit. This could be your skirt or your top. In fact, it’s always a bit risky to mix different prints... The easiest way to find a colour to pair with it is to choose one of the following:

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

You now have all the keys to showcase your silhouette with a maxi skirt! Don't hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and try new outfits!

For some inspiration, feel free to check out our online store: you'll find a wide range of clothing, including original and flattering bohemian maxi skirts to suit any body shape. 😉

Bohemian skirts