Step Aside, Black — This Is the Skirt Color You Should Wear to Get Compliments When You’re Out and About.
When it comes to color trends, we’ve seen a variety this year. From the gentle neutrality of butter yellow to the surprising vibrancy of dill green, there’s an abundance of shades competing for our attention. As a fashion editor—beyond my endless shopping—one of my roles is to discern which trends will endure. Therefore, with the range of colors 2025 has brought us so far, I’ve been contemplating whether each hue is just a short-lived trend or if it has true staying power for upcoming seasons.
One color I've deliberated on throughout the year is red. Like many of you, I've observed it appearing almost everywhere—from celebrities and editors to fashion enthusiasts. There’s been a notable increase in this shade, showcased in lightweight cozy knits, bright cherry ballet flats, and this summer’s standout: Ancient Greek Sandals' jelly flip-flops. In my view, its notable rise suggests that red is not merely having a moment; it’s here for the long run.
Yet, one item that undeniably looks chic in any styling is the red skirt. My first indication that this bold piece was gaining popularity was during Diesel’s autumn/winter 2022 show featuring a micro-mini with a prominent embossed "D" logo and daring wrap-around design—this skirt made a significant impact and hinted at something bigger on the horizon.
Looking ahead to autumn/winter 2025, red skirts are anticipated to become ubiquitous. From Isabel Marant to Chloé and Elie Saab, designers showcased a full array of red on their runways. Imagine sheer maxis, dark tartan minis, and flowing midis, all showcasing that striking bold red. Styled with casual knits or sharp tailoring, red skirts are poised to become a favorite among many.
We’ve established that red skirts are indeed a trend. The next question is how to style them to fit our capsule wardrobes. I admit, I shared your uncertainty. So, I did what I usually do when faced with a fashion dilemma: I turned to Instagram and surveyed stylish individuals, who interestingly are already effortlessly wearing red skirts.
Below are five red-skirt outfits that inspire me for styling mine this autumn.
1. Jumper + Red Midi + Loafers + Cap
Style Notes: I frequently return to Kendall Jenner’s style when I want to add a relaxed touch to my essentials. She uses color in a way that feels both cool and accessible. Her red-skirt outfit (shown above) exemplifies this: a simple black jumper, classic loafers, and a red mini create an outfit that’s easy yet undeniably chic.
Shop the Look:
- Investing in a black cashmere jumper is always a wise choice.
- Free People: Sheer Luck Midi Skirt (I’ve recently bought this and I'm already in love).
- M&S Collection: Leather Loafers (you can never have too many white socks).
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Cotton Chino Baseball Cap (I grab a cap whenever I want to skip doing my hair; it’s an effortless way to look polished).
2. Cardigan + Skirt + Square-Toe Heels + Bag
Style Notes: The color of a red skirt significantly impacts its styling. While vibrant hues like cherry red and poppy are popular, I lean toward darker shades as the weather cools. Deeper tones provide more versatility, pairing well with white and pastel colors as well as black and brown. I take inspiration from Emmanuelle Koffi (above).
Shop the Look:
- NA-KD: Fuzzy Button Detail Cardigan (the exact sweater Emmanuelle is wearing!).
- Reformation: Jordan Low Waist Skirt (available in countless colors and prints).
- Vicenza: Square-Toe Slingback Heels (I'm a fan of red shoes).
- SPINELLI KILCOLLIN: Solarium Set (mixing metals is always fun).
3. White Vest Top + Red Skirt + "Dad" Sandals
Style Notes: Red and white make a striking combination, but Evie Mills shows us that this classic duo pairs surprisingly well with olive green. It’s a refreshing twist that feels both sophisticated and relaxed—and while it may not be the go-to look for October, it’s perfect for transitional weather, wouldn’t you agree?
Shop the Look:
- A white tank top is a timeless staple.
- Damson Madder: Charlotte Cotton Satin Midi Skirt.
- Birkenstock: Arizona Waxy Leather.
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Suede Mini Satchel (consider swapping Evie's raffia bag for suede as we move into autumn).
4. Two-Piece Set + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: Few outfits are as polished as a matching set, and with a red skirt, a two-piece is arguably the easiest option. Sara Ramén illustrates this well with her pairing of strappy sandals and an oversized tote (
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Step Aside, Black — This Is the Skirt Color You Should Wear to Get Compliments When You’re Out and About.
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