How to Wear a High-Waisted Maxi Skirt? Check Out Our Fashion Tips!

Do you love high-waisted maxi skirts and are wondering if they would flatter your figure? Are you looking for fashion inspiration to incorporate this trendy piece into your wardrobe?

I'll help you out.

As a fashion enthusiast, I absolutely loved the return of long skirts, especially pleated ones, on the runways a few years back. This wardrobe essential is great because it's easy to wear, very feminine, and it matches well in any season!

Today, I’m going to share how you can rock a high-waisted maxi skirt, no matter your body shape. I’ve also picked out some inspiring outfit ideas to make this piece a staple in your wardrobe!

Contrary to what some may say, high-waisted long skirts actually flatter most body types. If you're petite or curvy, make sure to choose lightweight fabrics and avoid overly long cuts to enhance your silhouette. Very trendy, long skirts come in various styles: they can be classic in black and white, or edgy when paired with a leather jacket. They are also a key piece in bohemian and ethnic styles, especially if they feature patterns or prints. This garment can take on endless variations: just find the look that suits you!

Want to find out more? Keep reading to discover:

  • Can you wear a high-waisted long skirt if you are short?
  • Is this garment suitable for curvy women?
  • How to achieve a bohemian or rock style with this type of skirt?
  • How to style it for everyday wear for work or meeting friends?
  • Plenty of outfit ideas to inspire you during your next shopping trip!

Which Silhouette is Right for You?

In recent years, the long skirt has become a must-have in every trendy wardrobe. However, you might be wondering how this style works with your body shape. In ads and fashion shows, it's often tall and slim women that you see wearing them! What if you're petite? Or curvy? I’ll answer your questions in the following sections!

long skirt for petite women

The High-Waisted Maxi Skirt: Off Limits for Short Women?

It’s often said that long skirts and dresses aren’t suitable for short people: they can make you look shorter and don’t flatter the figure. But I beg to differ, and I’m not alone in this: it’s absolutely possible to wear these outfits when you’re petite, as long as you choose wisely!

To help with that, here are some tips for you:

  • Choose a skirt that’s not too long, reaching above your ankles, so you won't trip over it.
  • Opt for light and bright colours.
  • Pick lightweight materials: lace, silk, light fabric...
  • Select a style that is high-waisted and that, proportionally, makes up ⅔ of your silhouette without your head.
  • And, if you can, wear heels to elongate your legs!

Can you wear a high-waisted maxi skirt if you're curvy?

You have curves and are wondering if a high-waisted maxi skirt is right for you? Just like for petite women, there's no hard and fast rule: it's all about choosing a style that flatters your body shape.

long skirt for curvy women

Here’s how to find the perfect skirt to enhance your curvy figure:

  • Slit skirts will elongate your legs while enhancing your silhouette,
  • Don't hesitate to wear a high-waisted skirt that is fitted at the waist to accentuate your curves,
  • You can go for prints on your skirt: paired with a solid top, they will give you a fresh look,
  • Avoid heavy materials like velvet or tweed,
  • Opt for either:
    • A fitted skirt that ends just below the knee,
    • A flared skirt that falls at the knee or lower.

Elegance and Simplicity: The Casual Chic Long Skirt

Are you on the lookout for a casual outfit that’s feminine, stylish, and comfortable to wear? A solid or printed high-waisted long skirt paired with a nice top and classic shoes is the perfect companion for heading to work, spending time with friends during the day, or even going on holiday.

everyday skirt

👉 To accentuate your waist, don’t hesitate to wear a leather belt. As mentioned earlier, it’s often said that a well-fitted outfit highlights the following proportions:

  • ⅓ at the top,
  • ⅔ at the bottom,

A belt can help accentuate your proportions while adding a smart finishing touch to your everyday outfit.

Wax fabric: A vibrant style inspired by Africa!

Have you ever heard of wax fabric? This African textile is treated on both sides with a special wax, making it almost waterproof and very durable. This fabric is highly valued in sub-Saharan Africa and is an integral part of the culture in this region of the world.

maxi wax skirt

It is characterised by vibrant patterns: for African women, these patterns hold significant meaning and form an entire vocabulary. Depending on the pattern worn, it can indicate whether one is happily married or single and seeking love.

Brightly coloured, wax skirts should definitely be worn with a very simple and plain top. If you want to create the impression of long legs and a slim silhouette, this outfit is the way to go! Don't hesitate to pair it with African-inspired jewellery for a complete ethnic look!

Dare to rock the look with your long skirt

The black pleated maxi skirt is a key piece for a rock n' roll style: whether for a night out or your everyday look, this outfit will help you make a statement while keeping it ultra-stylish!

pleated skirt

For this, I recommend pairing the high-waisted black skirt with:

  • A perfect black leather jacket,
  • Heels,
  • A black top (like a blouse) if you prefer a monochrome look,
  • A white or light-colored top if you want to add a bright touch to your outfit!

👉 You can also achieve this style by choosing a skirt in dusty pink, mauve, or purple tones and pairing it with black clothing!

Bohemian Vibes with a Chic Ethnic Flair

Do you love loose and comfy clothes? How about pretty prints? The bohemian style is definitely for you! Keep reading this article to find out how to wear a long skirt in a boho chic way!

How to Achieve This Look?

The bohemian long skirt is known for:

  • pastel colours (pink, blue, green) or natural ones (ecru, beige, khaki…),
  • lightweight materials (silk, viscose, linen, cotton…),
  • a loose fit that flatters the silhouette.

It can be plain or feature floral patterns and vibrant prints.

bohemian long skirt

It suits all body shapes and can be worn in any season! To style it with a bohemian vibe, go for pieces like:

  • A Bardot neckline top (off-the-shoulder),
  • A flowy blouse with lace details,
  • A hat,
  • A small leather bag,
  • A belt to accentuate your waist,
  • Sandals that wrap around the ankles or leather boots for winter…

Our Selection of Bohemian Skirts

On our site Boho Via, we are committed to offering you ultra-trendy and accessible bohemian outfits all year round.

To get a feel for this style and perhaps even find the skirt that catches your eye, I invite you to check out our collection of bohemian long skirts right now!

    For a classy and sophisticated look: Dare to go black and white!

    Looking for a smart and elegant outfit for work or a special event?

    A pleated maxi skirt, whether it's black or white, is perfect for achieving a dressed-up look. To style it, simply pair it with a solid-coloured dress shirt or blouse, and opt for black or white shoes like pumps or nice heeled sandals. I recommend playing with contrasts by wearing either a black skirt with a white top or the other way around.

    work skirt

    This article is coming to an end, and I hope that high-waisted long skirts are no longer a mystery to you! Trust your instincts to discover the style that suits you best, so you can truly be yourself 100%!

    Curious to learn more about pleated skirts? Check out our dedicated article!

    Need some inspiration? Discover chic ways to effortlessly style a high-waisted maxi skirt. View Our Maxi Skirt Inspirations