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The new skirt length—you’ve seen it on the latest Fall 2013 runways, you’ve heard reviews rave about it, the question now becomes can I wear it and how do I pull it off?
Proenza Schouler’s Fall 2013 runway show is a perfect example of what’s to come. Skirts that hit just below the knee paired with cocoon or architectural like cropped jackets and low d’Orsay pumps or kitten heels. The skirts come in a variety of shapes, a-line, flared, and pencil. But one thing they all have in common is their hem height, which falls just below the knee right where your leg curves in just before the calf.
As Creative Director and Owner of women’s apparel label LM StyleBar, my customers frequently ask me how they should style their clothing. Below are the most common questions I am asked with regards to pulling off this new look.
Should I tuck in my top?
Yes, always. A tucked-in top shows off your waist and elongates your figure. It also gives you definition so as to not look like a potato sack when wearing the new longer skirt lengths. If you are self-conscious about your tummy, I suggest blousing your top, allowing for an extra fold or two of fabric over the skirt’s waistband.
What shoes do I wear with the new skirt length?
The Fall 2013 runway showed a range of shoes from kitten heels, to chunky, stacked-wood heeled booties. As long as you’re not wearing Uggs, you really cannot go wrong. Try a classic pump or a men’s inspired penny loafer. If opting for a men’s inspired flat shoe, skip the tights or you’ll risk looking dated. A low-heeled d’Orsay or kitten heel gives your look polish and refinement and is right on trend for fall.
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Can I wear the new length if I am plus sized?
Absolutely! You want to create a proportion that complements you. Choose a skirt that is slightly wider at the hem, like a pencil skirt. It is a misnomer that pencil skirts are all the same: that they are upside down triangles, barely allowing the wearer to walk because they are so tight at the knees. Take for example my Marissa wool and cashmere pencil skirt. It has an opening that flatters sizes 0 through 12 due to the length that it creates on the body and the flattering leg opening. The straight shape will help balance your body.
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Can I wear the new length if I am short?
Definitely! A common misperception is a below the knee skirt will make a short women look shorter. The key is to wear one that sits at your natural waist with your shirt tucked-in and at least a 2” heel. Pick a nude shoe for a leg-lengthening boost. This silhouette will no doubt elongate your figure. Take for example Eva Longoria. She is only 5’2”—can you tell?
I’d rather wear a dress, can I still pull off the new length?
Yes, of course! If trying to decide which blouse or top to wear with your new length skirt is a bit overwhelming, try a classic dress, which makes looking good quick and easy. This season, you will see a range of styles and colors hitting just below the knee.
The important thing to remember is to feel confident in what ever you decide to wear. Enjoy!
