Jeans and a nice top can now kindly move aside, because since the denim maxi skirt made its major comeback, I’ve barely so much as looked at my Levi’s. This trend has fast-become a go-to in my wardrobe as an alternative to trousers, effortlessly combining comfort and style while adding something a little more interesting to everyday looks.
These floor-length fashion staples have stood the test of time, albeit having evolved from their bohemian roots in the 70s to become a modern wardrobe must-have. My beloved Blue Denim Split Hem Maxi Skirt is from high street favourite New Look, coming in at £32.99 as part of the retailer’s new Obsessed for Less collection – a value price range designed to combat the cost-of-living crisis. The edit taps into the latest trends at budget-friendly prices, but also has a real focus on capsule wardrobe pieces and timeless staples that can be worn season after season. Think chic cargos and tailored trousers, denim maxi skirts and collegiate casual sweats in a mostly neutral colour palette, with the majority of styles coming in under £30. It’s pretty dreamy.
With an a-line silhouette and split hem, the denim maxi skirt from New Look has sold out multiple times since it was launched as part of the Emily Atack edit – I had to be pretty patient for it to come back in stock, but it was worth the wait. My only gripe – and if you follow me on TikTok, you’ll already know this – but I did have to size up and opt for a 12 because I genuinely feared I’d need cutting out of the 10, which is my usual size. That said, it’s designed to flatter a range of body shapes, and once you find the perfect fit, it’s a dream to wear. Remember, your clothes are supposed to fit you, not the other way around, so ignore the size label and get the one that makes you feel amazing.
What makes a denim maxi skirt the ultimate wardrobe addition is their versatility. They can seamlessly transition from casual to chic, taking all of the stress out of building an outfit because they go with absolutely everything. This one is high waisted and has the added benefit of belt loops and functional pockets, with a light wash finish that is incredibly easy to wear.
Whether paired with a simple tee for a relaxed day out, dressed up with heels for an evening event, or layered with jackets and accessories for a trendy street style look, denim maxi skirts are a universally flattering chameleon of a piece, which can be adapted to suit your personal style no matter you age, body shape or taste. I’ve styled mine three ways to prove it’s the perfect choice for literally anything in your upcoming social calendar.
Band tee and bright bag
This first outfit is my failsafe and it works with any t-shirt already in your wardrobe, making it a cool and casual option for anyone to style. I prefer an oversized tee like this David Bowie Ziggy Stardust number from Boohoo Man in a boxy fit. I have a whole host of tops like this from Rolling Stones to Johnny Cash, all of which add a touch of personality to an outfit to showcase your Spotify playlist. Tucking it into the skirt gives you a laid-back vibe with a hint of rock ‘n’ roll edge.
I like to tie in colours in the tee with a crossbody bag, like this pink one from Uniqlo which is under £15. These tardis-style bags allow me to keep my pockets free while keeping my essentials close at hand, finishing the look with the resurgent (though they never really went out of style) Adidas Gazelles. The only thing that would be the cherry on top of this fit would be a pink pair – can’t place my hands on some for love nor money. My Vinted notifications are on.
Double denim
Though many still consider double denim a fashion faux pas, I’m willing to commit the style sin for this outfit because I am obsessed. The key to successfully rocking double denim is all about balance and contrast, and this waistcoat and skirt combo is a match made in heaven.
One of the key styling tips for pulling off double denim is making sure that both denim pieces fit well and flatter your body shape. Well-fitted denim looks more deliberate and therefore works a lot better than ill-fitting or baggy pieces. I love that the length of the maxi skirt juxtaposes the length of the waistcoat, making me appear taller and my waist slimmer. You’d be forgiven for thinking that it’s an intentional co-ord, but the waistcoat is actually from the Michelle Keegan collection at Very, coming in at £30.
I kept the rest of this look super simple with some classic white Adidas trainers, tying my hair into a slick back ponytail for a clean, minimalist finish.
Leather blazer and boots
This outfit is best suited to a dinner date or a day at the office, more put-together and dressy with an autumnal vibe. For a cosier look, I opted for a black high neck knitted top to keep things polished, layering an olive green leather look blazer from the ASOS sample sale for a sophisticated twist.
I tied in the black top with a pair of iconic black Dr. Marten boots for an edgy touch, padded headband a-la Blair Waldorf, clay earrings and the chic M&S faux leather crossbody bag that’s a fabulous high street alternative for the Celine accessory.
There are so many other ways to wear this skirt too – think jumpers and cropped cardigans with chunky boots for autumn, cowboy boots for a western vibe, white shirt and mules – the limit does not exist. This versatile wardrobe staple can be dressed up or down for no end of events, whether you’re channelling a relaxed gig look, street style or something more sophisticated, you’ll forget you even own a pair of jeans after about a week.
The New Look blue denim split hem maxi skirt comes in at £32.99 and goes out of stock almost as soon as it comes back in, so here are some of my favourite alternatives that are around a similar price:
- Marks and Spencer Denim Split Front Maxi Skirt – £35
- River Island Blue Denim High Waisted Maxi Skirt – £40
- Stradivarius Vintage Denim Maxi Skirt – £35.99
Or you can wait for your size to come back in stock on New Look here.
