I have lots of dresses. LOTS. I find them so easy to wear, my winter uniform is basically a floral frock, opaque tights and ankle boots. If you were to peek into my closet right now you will also find various pairs of tailored shorts and black skinny jeans. With these items I have a kind of mix “n” match “capsule” approach of sorts going on, a grey, white or black vest/T-shirt with some kind of slouchy fine knit cardigan over the top.

If I’m feeling really fancy I might even throw some delicate layering necklaces into the ensemble. I know, the diversity! Seriously though, it’s so much easier knowing what suits you and what you feel comfortable in and not having to rummage around your wardrobe early in the morning when all you want to do is crawl back under the duvet.

What you won’t find hanging on my rails is many skirts. Not counting long swishy summer maxis (currently gathering dust in the loft) I have three. And none which have been purchased in the last year. I find them difficult to say the least. Not only is style and length an issue (short legs, long body, just shy of 5′ 4″ – anything just below the knee or midi looks ruddy awful) but I only seem to be able to make them look dressy/overly “smart”. I have a spendy black AllSaints leather number my Mum treated me to a couple of Christmas’s ago (zippy, quilted, rather short) that I only ever wear to parties or on rare date nights, a neoprene grey A-line from Alexander Wang (was reduced from something ridiculous like £300 to fifty quid on The Outnet) and a flippy pleated patterned navy blue. The latter two I only ever wear to client meetings as thus far, I’ve felt as though I am unable to make them “casual” enough for everyday.

Recently however I think I’ve managed to make the transition (it’s taken me 30 odd years but you know, better late than never). And that’s by simply finding the right style and fit for my body type. The key for me was going higher waisted, it somehow alters my overall proportions and gives the illusion of longer pins. Also shorter in length but not necessarily mini or god forbid, tight and stretchy (I have boy hips with one on the wonk since I had Mabel so uber clingy is not flattering, I would also like to be able to walk). This vegan leather zip-to-it piece in burgundy from Free People is my latest favourite thing. I buy my usual size but it’s generous enough to tuck my regular T-shirts into without feeling as though I can’t breathe. Talking of regular T-shirts, the Ultimate Easy design by ASOS is the bomb. The perfect loose yet non tent-like cotton, I bought this two pack of black and white – only £18.

Having fallen in love with the burgundy pleather (there are loads of other lovely hues to choose from by the way), I went and treated myself to the denim version too. I wear this with my favourite Zara jumpers which unfortunately are no longer available but this round neck style is VERY similar, I’ve already bought the charcoal grey. Obviously.

As for the tassel ankle boots, I cannot lay claim to this fashion find, reader Lynsey did some rather sneaky enabling some months ago by mentioning them in the comments section of a specific footwear feature. They are the Tulsi boot by Free People and I have them in natural, saddle (light tan) and black. Obsessed.

Hmm, I’ve just noticed they now do them in a fetching rust shade…..tempting.

Do you “do” skirts? What’s your favourite style and why? And what do you wear with them? Ahem, sporting your toddler daughter’s gold glitter crown whilst wearing your new skirt is of course entirely optional.

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