The question
What skirt lengths are most au courant this season? Can you recommend some looks?
The answer
Walk around the designer-fashion floor of a department store or thumb through the racks of a fast-fashion shop and you will find frilly mini skirts and voluminous maxis side by side.
We are well past the point of rigid trends – whether in hemline length, pant cut, shoulder style or shoe shape. This should come as some relief, although the abundance of choices can present quite a challenge. The key to looking current is in how you style your skirt.
Right now, for instance, I like the idea of a knee-length skirt – pencil or pleated – worn with a blouse and a dressy sweatshirt (you can find these everywhere). The look is polished, yet also unexpected. Thanks to the influence of Céline and Prada, you might also see various fit-and-flare or fuller skirts that evoke the 1950s. These styles are definitely the trendiest of the season (and accordion pleats will replace them in the spring). But I suggest sticking with a constant, flattering style even while fashion fluctuates around you. There's nothing wrong with being au contraire when it comes to the au courant.
Amy Verner is The Globe and Mail's Paris-based style reporter. Have a fashion question? E-mail style@globeandmail.com. Follow her on Twitter: @amyverner.