The Allure of Long Skirts

Long skirts: they've been around for centuries, and yet they never go out of style. These flowy, romantic garments are universally flattering, comfortable to wear, and—let's be honest—they make you feel like a throwback to the days when women dressed in full gowns just to step out of the house. But as tempting as it is to get lost in the whimsy of long skirts, there's actually a multitude of practical reasons why they should be a staple in every woman's wardrobe.

• Versatility

One of the key selling points of long skirts is their versatility. Whether you're a minimalist who wants to keep it simple, or a pattern-loving maximalist who enjoys bringing drama wherever you go, you can always find a long skirt that suits your personal style. A black maxi skirt may be the ultimate basic piece that you can dress up or down, wear with sneakers or heels, and take from day to night. Alternatively, a floral midi skirt can be a statement piece that is the perfect balance between not too dressy and not too casual. And because long skirts cover your legs, you can pair them with literally any kind of top for a countless variety of outfit combinations.

• Comfort

When it comes to comfort, there's really no competition between long skirts and their shorter, tighter alternatives. A maxi skirt made with lightweight materials such as chiffon or cotton breathes easier, avoids unflattering cling, and keeps you cool in the summer heat. A long skirt also dramatically reduces the chances of chafing, sunburned legs, and unwanted knee exposure. Whether you're busy chasing after little ones, at a summer music festival, or just running errands, nothing beats the effortless comfort of a long skirt.

• Flattery

For those of us blessed with uneven skin tone, cellulite, or hyperpigmentation, long skirts can be a godsend. By covering up everything below the waist, long skirts allow you to feel stylish and put together without having to worry about exposing your body's flaws. Even women who have never worried about "problem areas" often find that long skirts highlight the parts of their body they love the most, such as a small waist or shapely legs. Whether it's a waist-cinching empire waistline, flattering pleats, or flowing tiers, long skirts have a way of making every woman feel like a goddess.

• Modesty

In a world that often emphasizes skin over soul, it can be refreshing to see a garment that harks back to an earlier time when modesty was more in style. Long skirts can be particularly advantageous for women who prefer not to draw attention to themselves or their bodies. For some, it's a matter of religious devotion—the swish and sway of a full, demure skirt is a way of showing reverence to a higher power. For others, it's a personal preference that allows them to feel more comfortable in their own skin, retaining a sense of privacy and dignity in a culture that often feels voyeuristic. And even if you don't practice modesty for any particular reason, there's still something empowering about feeling subtly powerful as you sweep through a room in a long, flowing skirt.

• Sustainability

As consumers, we are more conscious than ever about the environmental impact of our fashion choices. The good news is that long skirts are one of the most sustainable clothing items around. Unlike fast fashion counterparts that wear out after a few wears, long skirts can be worn season after season without becoming dated or worn at the seams. When made from natural and organic materials, such as silk or cotton, long skirts have lower environmental impact than synthetic or man-made goods, which can result in toxic byproducts and contribute to microplastic pollution. And because long skirts are versatile, comfortable, flattering, and modest, you can justify buying a few quality pieces that will last for years to comes.