I’m not a big fan of sequins. I love them on everyone else but for me, it feels too loud. So it might seem at odds that I'm about to wax lyrical about sequin skirts, but ever since I saw Alexa Chung wear one with a grey cable knit sweater circa 2010-something, I did a 180. For sequin skirts, I make an exception, and it seems I’m not alone; they’ve become a partywear staple, as synonymous with a shindig as an LBD.
And spoiler alert: they always - always - sell out, because they are, without fail, the perfect festive party outfit and NYE essential. If you're thinking ahead and in need of some New Year's Eve party outfit inspiration, let me your guide.
And I’m not joking when I say for every jeans and a nice top, or LBD, there’s a sequin skirt worn at a festive party. Sequin skirts are universally cool; they can be dressed up, toned down and are always flattering.
Silver editor's pick: M&S Silver Sequin Midaxi Skirt, £55 / $109
Black editor's pick: Phase Eight Black Midi Sequin Skirt, £59 / $92
Bronze editor's pick: H&M Bronze Sequin Skirt, £22 / $44.99
Blue editor's pick: JD Williams Blue Mesh Sequin Skirt, £26.60
Pink editor's pick: Mango Sequin Skirt, £59.99 / $99.99
From Loewe to Ellie Saab, they’ve made their way up and down the catwalk and the sales speak for themselves - from midi sequin skirts to micro-mini and even maxi, these sell fast so you've got to be quick if you want to add one to your fashion rotation, especially before its festive party season.
Personal stylist Helen Canning explains to us why they're such a hit: "Sequins will always add the wow factor to any outfit, and although I'm a big champion for sequins at any time of year, the festive period is the perfect time to go all out with the sparkle to lift your winter wardrobe and kick-start that party feeling."
© InstagramSequin skirts - styling inspiration
A sequin midi skirt is far easier to style than you might think - just look at the host of street style influencers and content creators who wear theirs with knits through winter and spring. The sequin skirt is the fun alternative to a traditional party dress, looking as stylish with a silky cami and heels as they do a chunky roll-knit jumper and boots – wearable, affordable and statement making are just some of the reasons we love them so.
© GettyIf you're worried about wearing one over 50, don't be, says Helen: "Just go for it! It's not about age, just own it and think about what you're comfortable in, whether you choose to go bright and bold or more muted."
© GettyParty time? Co-ordinate with similar shades to your sequin for a chic colour clash. Add a sheer blouse, satin tee or clashing sequins. Brunch calls for a hoodie or cable-knit sweater with sneakers and your sequin skirt, because life's too short to save those sequins for the dancefloor.
© GettyAnything that can be dressed up or down season upon season gets pride of place in our wardrobe. Trust us, the cost per wear will be pennies because you’ll be wearing it so often. The only downside of a sequin skirt? They go out of stock, and fast.
How to find the right sequin skirt for you
I asked Helen for advice on the best shapes and styles of sequin skirts, depending on body shape:
Petite: If you're 5ft3 or under, Helen recommends a mini sequin skirt. "A neat mini length would work well if you're petite so you're not swamped in sequins, then pair with tights and shoes in the same colour to elongate the legs."
Hide a tummy: "Choose a style that's a little more structured to give support around the tummy, and try a loose tuck with your top at the front to create an asymmetric line to break up the area, rather than a straight line across the waist which will draw attention," Helen advises.
To balance larger hips: A pencil shape would work fine, Helen told us, but recommends "adding volume on your shoulders to balance out wider hips, perhaps with a puffball sleeve". Or, choose a flowing fit that skims the hips and drapes without clinging.
For first-time sequin wearers: "A darker shade like burgundy or chocolate feels more subtle than full-on metallics, and dress down with soft knitwear and boots. Suede would be a great option to contrast the shine of the sequin," Helen says. "Alternatively why not try a skirt with scattered sequin embellishment rather than drenched in sparkle?"
How I chose the best sequin skirts
- Price: There's no need to spend hundreds on a sequin skirt - some of the best are super affordable, and they don't scrimp on quality or style either. I've found a range of prices, so there should be one to fit your budget. Many are on sale, making it a great time to get yours.
- Style: You won't find any subtle embellishment or the odd diamante here. The sequin skirts here are as sparkly and full-on sequinned as is humanly (or high street) possible; the more sequins the better.
- Length: Most in this edit err on the midi side, a classic length for a sequinned skirt.
- Colour: Gold, silver and black might seem standard sequin fodder, but it's worth considering sequinned skirts in brights, patterns and muted tones too. Blue and burgundy sequin skirts are hot for 2025.
Shop the best sequin skirts
1/9
M&S Sequin Midaxi Skirt
© M&SSizes: 6 - 22
Colours: Silver
Silver sequins and large sequin discs come together in this midi length skirt to make a noteworthy piece.
Editor's note: "This is the skirt of the season, and I'd recommend snapping one up while they're in stock. M&S' sequin skirt looks equally as cool with a plain tee as it does a grey knit, and is an ideal knee length."
2/9
Phase Eight Mauve Black Mesh Sequin Midi Skirt
© Phase EightSizes: 8-18
Colours: Black
Embellished with light reflecting, black sequins, this sequin skirt fastens with a concealed zip to keep the lines smooth and sophisticated.
Editor's note: "This black sequin skirt skims the body and falls to a column silhouette for a sexy yet wearable aesthetic. The mesh sequin overlay gives it an even more glamorous edge."
3/9
H&M Sequinned Skirt
© H&MSizes: XXS - XL
Colours: Bronze, black and burgundy
Golden sequins adorn this column-fitted midi skirt, which hits just below the knee and has a high waist fit.
Editor's note: "This H&M sequin skirt is a steal. The bronze-gold is a gorgeous shade and a little different, and the fluted yet fitted style is universally flattering."
4/9
JD Williams Sequin Skirt
© JD WilliamsSizes: 8 - 32
Colours: Blue
With baby blue sequins and a midi length, this sequin skirt is a cool alternative to metallics or black.
Editor's Note: "How stunning is the colour of this sequin skirt? The muted shade is calling out for a winter white top and its a nice change from the classic gold, silver and black sequin skirts."
5/9
Mango Sequin Skirt
© MangoSizes: XS - XL
Colours: Pink
With a long, straight design and large sequin embellishment, this light pink skirt is sweet and sparkly.
Editor's Notes: "This stunning sequin skirt is in the sweetest colour of the season - pink. It'll look beautiful with white, grey or black and be a great piece for spring."
6/9
Reserved Sequin Skirt
© ReservedSizes: XS - XXL
Colours: Burgundy
This deep-red sequin skirt screams the festive season, with its on-trend colour and maxi length.
Editor's Note: "If you're not a lover of bold, bright colours this skirt is just the thing for the festive season."
7/9
Next Green Sequin Skirt
© NextSizes: 6-26
Colours: Green, black or burgundy
With a black lace trim, this green sequin skirt stands out from the crowd.
Editor's Note: "Giving Grinch-green vibes, I adore this Next skirt for the season. From the lace trim to the long length, I think it's an easy one to dress up, down and great for every season too."
8/9
Scamp & Dude Ombre Sequin Skirt
© Scamp & DudeSizes: 6-22
Colours: Pink ombre
A midi pencil skirt in pink sequins, with a flash of ombre sequins across the middle.
Editor's Note: "This is perfect for those who want a little extra detailing to their sequin skirt, as the ombre colouring is subtle yet stands out."
9/9
Never Fully Dressed Sequin Maxi Wrap Jaspre Skirt
© Never Fully DressedSizes: 2- 24
Colours: Silver
A wrap tie fastening makes this sequin skirt stand out from the rest - it can be tied in multiple ways.
Editor's Note: " I adore this Never Fully Dressed skirt for the season. From the multi-tie option to the longer length, I think it's an easy wear."
Editor's Verdict: It's the M&S sequin skirt in silver that gets my vote; not only is it sequinned, but the addition of larger, retro-vibe sequins gives it a whole other aesthetic. Props also to the H&M skirt, which I'm sure for cost per wear would be mere pennies.
