FLATTERING SKIRTS: THE RUN DOWN

From Mary Quant's mini to the boho maxi of the '70s (and dare we mention the Bananarama ra-ra that came next?), skirt lengths have certainly been on a journey, leaving all of us asking: what skirt suits me? With a huge choice of skirt lengths and styles out there to choose from, finding the right one can feel like a minefield. So that's why we're here with a complete run down of flattering skirts for everyone.

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STRAIGHT CUT

Classic, elegant and effortlessly easy to wear; there's a place for the straight cut skirt in every wardrobe. We like ours slightly above the knee - perfect for elongating legs.

Denim, chino or soft cotton, the beauty of the straight cut skirt is that it is so versatile, so you can style it any way you like. Treat a denim skirt just like jeans by wearing it with tees or knits, and choose a pretty patterned cotton style with your favourite blouse for a breezy summer look.

Sunshine not playing ball? No problem. A straight cut is just as stylish layered over tights to keep you safe from the chill. We love to wear ours with a pair of coloured, cosy woollen tights and boots.

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MAXI

Hot? Cold? No matter the season, we can always count on the Great British weather to be unpredictable! A maxi skirt is perfect for those in-between days, giving you the comfortable coverage of trousers with the lightweight benefits of flattering skirts.

In the spirit of erratic weather, a maxi is perfect for layering. Wear it with a vest top and a lightweight knit that's easy to take on and off with the sunshine. It's versatile for occasions too - sandals, pumps and flip-flops are all acceptable. Dress it up, dress it down, dress it all year round, a maxi really is a wardrobe wonder.

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FIT & FLARE

For the weekend, try a fit and flare skirt - nipped in at the waist and fallinginto a full, floaty skirt. A graceful, flattering skirt with a feminine feel - make it your go-to on those days that you need an outfit that works every time.

Team yours with pumps and a striped tee for a laid-back look that's perfect for days out shopping and lazy lunches, then wear it with a shirt tucked in for summer days in the office.

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A-LINE

The perfect piece to try if you're nervous about bare legs - this mid-length style is the ultimate flattering skirt length. Falling just below the knee, an A-line skirt showcases the slimmest section of the leg and gives enough coverage to keep you feeling secure should the beach get breezy.

Try a patterned A-line in a soft, delicate fabric if that will skim your hips and fall elegantly below the knee, or if you're after something a little more full then wear your A-line with a fuller skirt and a fitted top to balance the look.

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What Skirt Suits Me?

Now that we're clued up on flattering skirts, it's time to find out which skirt lengths really suit your figure. Whether you're a regular skirt-wearer or novice leg-barer, here are some failsafe tips that can help you pick the perfect skirt.

If you're lucky enough to have an hourglass figure then highlight your waist with a waist-nipping fit and flare skirt. Choose one that skims your curves, to show off your best bits in the most stylish way possible.

If you love your legs, then make the most of them in a shorter, straight cut style. It doesn't matter which type you try, as long as your hemline is above the knee then prepare your pins for their moment in the spotlight.

If you're more of a pear shape, try accentuating your waist with an A-line skirt. Designed to flatter, with fabric falling softly from your slimmest part. If you're wearing a fuller skirt though, be sure to balance it with a fitted top to keep shape in your outfit.