From bold baroque to feminine florals, these are the patterns that should be in your closet.

From bold leopard-print maxi skirts to baroque and floral prints, these are the printed skirts to buy now and wear forever. Picks include midi, midi, and maxis.

best printed skirts
best printed skirts
(Image credit: Getty Images/Design by Morgan McMullen)

Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.

When it comes to prints, the variations—from bold and bright to simple and subdued—are nearly limitless. There is a print for everyone, and I'm here to prove that a printed skirt is a must-have in your wardrobe. The beauty of a great print is no matter how simple it may be, it has the ability to transform an otherwise bland outfit. If you are new to wearing prints, I suggest starting out with a neutral-tone snakeskin or a feminine floral—snakeskin pairs well with anything and a tiny floral print isn't too overwhelming on the eye. If you're like me, the bolder the better! Choose an over-the-top baroque print or a silky Serengeti-inspired animal print to be sure to make a statement. Below are 11 printed skirts that will fit into any wardrobe.

Shelby Comroe

Shelby Comroe is the Credits Editor and Fashion Assistant at Marie Claire covering all things fashion and giving credit where credit is due. Check her out @shelbycomroe on Instagram if buying designer handbags is your idea of a retirement plan!