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.
Baroque Print
This one's for my luxe ladies out there. Versace, silk, baroque print summed up in one word is chic. Let the skirt shine and keep the rest of your look minimal. I suggest offsetting the loud print with a simple black turtleneck.
Leopard Brocade
Who remembers the leopard midi slip skirt craze?? At one time in 2019, you couldn't walk down the street without seeing at least one. There is even an instagram account called "leopard mini skirt." For 2020, I present the dressed-up version, a leopard brocade pencil skirt.
Polka Dot
This fun and flirty little number is perfect for a girls night out. Offset the feminine ruffles with a menswear-inspired white button-down shirt. Add a pair of platform heels to elongate your legs and finish off with a pair of statement earrings.
Snakeskin Midi
This skirt has it all: texture, print, and a built-in belt, I promise this will be your go-to fall piece. As far as print goes, snakeskin is considered a neutral: It pairs well with denim, black, white, cream, brown, the list goes on.
Zig Zag
If you're looking to make a splash, look no further than this M Missoni pleated skirt. Missoni is known for its colorful knitwear—specifically, the zig zag print. That said, this skirt is a great way to buy into the Missoni lifestyle and score a classic piece that is sure to be stylish for years to come.
Check
A great work-appropriate option, this green check midi skirt will pair well with a crisp white button-down shirt. You can also layer a great cashmere sweater on top in case the office gets a bit chilly.
Floral
Channel 'cottage core' with this blue bonnet floral skirt. Pair it with a brown suede jacket and matching lace-up boots. But hey, if you want to go full cottage core live your Laura Ingalls Wilder fantasy, who's stopping you?
Zebra Mini
The denim mini got an upgrade and this spicy number is begging for a night out on the town! Lean into the playfulness of the print by pairing it with bright colored mules and a fun feathered bag. Add a black bodysuit with a plunging neckline to wrap up your look—you'll be sure to turn heads (in the best way).
Tiered Floral
This JW Anderson skirt will be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. The light and breezy fabric makes it perfect for summer, while the black trim adds a contrast that allows the skirt to transition into fall. Whether paired with a crop top and sandals or a black blazer and knee high boots, this skirt will always look chic.
Graphic
Play into the fun fringe and bold print of this Etoile Isabel Marant skirt by adding some western inspired boots. The neutral colors offset otherwise the memorable print making it a very versatile piece in your wardrobe.
Floral Mini Slip
Realisation Par is known for the Naomi midi slip skirt, which they chopped into a sexy mini version. This mini slip is giving me all the '90s feels: I'd style it with a cropped cardigan, some sheer black tights, platform converse, and a nylon mini bag. The skirt can also be transitioned into a sultry night out look with a black crop top, strappy sandals, and gold hoops.
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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!
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