The maxi skirt trend is going nowhere, and with summer ramping up it's becoming the street style aesthetic of the moment - particularly the white cotton poplin maxi. The longer skirt continues to dominate, loved for its cool girl Scandi aesthetic and polished look; it's both laidback and smart, dramatic yet understated.
Paired with a simple T-shirt and trainers, it creates a casual daytime look or swap for heels and a fitted top, and you're on your way to an elegant, relaxed evening look. Versatility is a maxi skirt's middle name.
In fact, the maxi skirt has risen from the depths of summer holidays and beach attire to the makings of a wardrobe staple. There's so many ideas for a maxi skirt outfit, you'll wonder how you lived without one, especially during summer.
- The white maxi skirt: Nobody's Child White Poplin Skirt, £59 / $115
- The denim version: Next Denim Maxi Skirt, £36 /
- The silky one: Next Polka Dot Satin Maxi Skirt, £42
- Gingham maxi: Boden Valentina Linen Gingham Skirt, £139 / $220
- The pleated maxi: M&S Taffeta Maxi Skirt, £50 / $105
And did I mention many come with an elasticated waistband? Comfort is key in my book.
Before you think the maxi skirt trend of 2026 isn't for you, or that they're strictly for your beach holiday, don't rule out the favourite frontrunner, the denim maxi skirt, which is still a best buy. A more chic alternative to jeans, they're selling strong.
We last saw the maxi skirt trending in the early 00s, where skirt lengths were at the extreme; it was either the tiniest nano skirt in Clueless checks and fluffy hems, or a grunge heel-grazing maxi. For 2026, it's about slipping a long skirt seamlessly into your style because they come in all colours, materials and styles.
Minimalist style seekers will adore the streamlined look of a satin maxi skirt with monochrome top, and for the romantic types, there's plenty of prairie style maxi skirts in floral prints, tiers and ruffles that would look great with a simple sweater or even sweatshirt. A denim skirt is ideal for swapping your jeans for, and utility maxi skirts are the new pencil skirts for the office.
How to style a maxi skirt now
Maxi skirts in all shapes and colours rule. Influencer Karolina Grzyb is giving me inspiration with her white skirt and beige knit, an easy outfit to replicate and flattering for all shapes and sizes especially during colder summer months.
© InstagramLydia Tomlinson smartens up a denim maxi skirt, proving it can be both smart and casual.
© InstagramA maxi skirt's superpower is its versatility, as stylish with a white tee and flats, like Tamara von Nayhauss, as with heels and a structured shirt in a monochrome palette. Tap into the double denim trend by swapping your jeans for a denim maxi skirt, and wear with a denim shirt in similar wash to create your own maxi skirt co-ord. Has double denim ever looked so polished?
I also love the look of a neutral maxi skirt paired with a waistcoat, in coordinating neutral tones, or embracing my inner Carrie Bradshaw with a sheer maxi skirt - so now. And finally, one look I spotted at recent fashion weeks was a maxi with a rugby polo top, a genius combination that I'm definitely going to replicate. It shouldn't work, but the proof is in the pudding - it does.
The best maxi skirts to shop this season
1. The white maxi skirt
If there's one maxi skirt you're going to see on your travels right now, it's a white cotton maxi skirt. They're so in demand the high street can't keep them in stock - but I've found some stunning versions. I love the look with a tonal knit or sweatshirt, or with an oversized blazer.
2. Denim maxi skirt
Last year's big hitter is back for this year, with denim max skirts being an alternative to wearing with jeans. Treat them like your usual denim and wear casually, smart or somewhere in between. There's plenty of styles to choose from too, including skirts with slits, frayed hems or my favourite, the flowing 70s inspired skirt.
3. Silky maxi skirt
Super luxe-looking and elegant, a satin maxi skirt has gone from eveningwear to daywear. Wear with a boyfriend fit t-shirt, big knit or oversized shirt and sneakers.
4. Gingham maxi skirts
Gingham has become the pattern of choice for spring, with their nostalgic, whimsical charm without being floral or polka dot. Treat the pattern as you would a stripe; clash your prints or keep the top half clean and minimal.
5. Pleated maxi skirts
A smarter, more polished take on the maxi skirt is one with pleats - there's something so chic and cool about one. They're ideal office wear, a breezy bridge from a wide leg trouser or pencil skirt.
