Types of Skirts: Waistbands, Shapes and Linen Drape Explained
How waistbands, silhouettes and fabric weight change the way a skirt sits and moves, from sweet A-line minis to flowing maxi linen skirts.
In this guide
In short: Skirts are defined by their waistband, silhouette and length: elastic, drawstring or zip waists; A-line, straight, bias cut or full shapes; and mini, midi or maxi lengths. Fabric weight changes the drape: lighter linen drapes and sways, while heavier linen holds its shape.
The perfect skirt can become a wardrobe staple. Two skirts of the same length can feel completely different: one holds a neat, sweet A-line, while another sways and swirls with every step. The difference comes down to three things: the waistband, the silhouette and the fabric. Here we gently explain each one, using the linen skirts in our range, so you can find the skirt that moves just the way you'd like.
Waistbands
- Fully elasticated waistband: pull-on and effortless, with the most give. Our STELLA maxi skirt has an elastic waistband.
- Lightly elasticated waist with a drawstring: easy to wear, and you can tie it just how you like it. Our RILEY bias cut skirt has a lightly elasticated waistline with a functional drawstring.
- Elastic back with a zip: a smooth, flat front with comfortable give at the back. Our ANELLE and BETTY skirts have an elasticated back waistband and a centre back zip, as does our ILARIA short skirt. Our GIA midi skirt pairs an elasticated back waistband with a front zip.
- Elastic back: our NADI skirt has an elastic back waistband for comfort.
Silhouettes
| Silhouette | Shape | In our range |
|---|---|---|
| A-line | Fitted at the waist, widening gently to the hem, like the letter A | ANELLE and BETTY short skirts, GIA midi skirt |
| Straight | Falls in a clean line from hip to hem | NADI, with side splits for easy movement |
| Bias cut | Cut diagonally across the fabric, so it drapes and sways softly | RILEY midi skirt |
| Full (godet) | Extra panels let the skirt flare out generously towards the hem | STELLA maxi skirt |
Hems add their own character too. Our ANELLE and BETTY skirts have an asymmetric front hem with an oversized pocket. Bias cutting deserves a story of its own, which we'll share in a future guide; until then, discover our bias cut skirts.
Lengths: mini, midi and maxi
- Mini skirts finish above the knee, playful and sweet with sandals or sneakers. Discover mini skirts.
- Midi skirts finish between the knee and the ankle, endlessly versatile from morning to evening. Discover midi skirts.
- Maxi skirts reach the ankle or close to it, floaty and romantic. Discover maxi skirts.
Each product page lists the skirt's length in its size guide, so you can compare it with a skirt you already love.
How fabric weight changes drape
Linen comes in different weights, and weight changes how a skirt hangs and moves:
- Heavier linen holds its shape beautifully, so an A-line keeps its line. Our BETTY skirt is made from heavy weight European linen.
- Mid weight linen balances shape and softness, like our ANELLE skirt.
- Cut and construction matter too: a bias cut lets linen drape and sway, and full godet panels give a maxi skirt its lovely swing.
Inside, many of our skirts are finished with French seams, which enclose the raw edges. Read more about fabric weight in What Is Linen?
Pockets
We love a skirt with pockets, and so many of ours have them: side pockets on the GIA midi skirt, side pocket details on the ILARIA skirt, oversized front pockets on the NADI skirt, and an oversized front pocket on the ANELLE and BETTY skirts.
Which skirt is right for you?
| If you love… | Try |
|---|---|
| Movement and swish | The RILEY bias cut midi or the full STELLA maxi |
| A neat, structured shape | The A-line BETTY or ANELLE |
| Easy everyday wear with pockets | The GIA midi or the straight NADI |
| Pull-on comfort | The elasticated STELLA |
How to style your skirt
- With a cami: our BEA, ROSA or LOLA linen cami, or the FRANKIE silk cami for evenings.
- With a top: our best-selling TINA top, or the cropped ARI vest with a midi skirt.
- With a shirt: a relaxed KIRRA shirt, tucked in or knotted at the waist.
- As a set: a linen skirt and top in the same fabric makes an effortless set. Discover our linen skirt and top sets.
Shopping by colour? Discover black skirts, white skirts and green skirts. For more top ideas, read our guide to women's tops, and if you're dreaming of a dress instead, read Dress Styles Explained.
Skirt FAQs
What are the main types of skirts?
The main silhouettes are A-line, straight, bias cut and full (flared or godet), in mini, midi or maxi lengths.
What is an A-line skirt?
A skirt that fits at the waist and widens gently to the hem, like the letter A.
What does bias cut mean on a skirt?
The fabric is cut diagonally across the weave, so the skirt drapes and moves more softly.
Are elastic waist skirts comfortable?
Yes. An elasticated or elastic-back waistband gives with you as you move and sit.
What length is a midi skirt?
A midi skirt finishes between the knee and the ankle. Check the length in each skirt's size guide.
Do linen skirts crease?
Linen creases softly; it's part of its relaxed charm. A quick steam smooths it if you prefer, and turning coloured skirts inside out to iron or dry keeps them bright. See how to wash linen clothing.
