ILLUSTRATED GLOSSARY · SKIRTS
Types of skirts.
A skirt's name tells you its shape from waist to hem. These eight cover almost every skirt you'll see in a shop.
Updated · By the Delve to Life editors · Editorial standards
THE QUICK ANSWER
Describe the shape first, then the length and fabric: "pleated midi skirt", "satin slip skirt", "denim A-line mini".
A-line skirt
Fitted at the waist and widening gently to the hem.
How to spot it. The outline makes a letter A; it stands slightly away from the hips without big folds.
How to wear it. The most versatile shape: tuck in a knit or shirt and add any shoe.
Pencil skirt
A straight, narrow skirt, usually to the knee.
How to spot it. Close at the hips and thighs, often with a back slit or vent for walking.
How to wear it. Workwear classic. A soft knit on top keeps it from feeling stiff.
Pleated skirt
A skirt folded into regular pleats that swing as you move.
How to spot it. Sharp, evenly spaced folds all around (knife or accordion pleats).
How to wear it. Midi pleats with trainers or boots are an easy everyday look.
Slip skirt
A fluid, bias-cut skirt, often satin, that skims the hips.
How to spot it. Soft sheen and a drape that follows the body without stretch; usually midi.
How to wear it. Pair with a chunky jumper or a T-shirt to play smooth against texture.
Wrap skirt
A panel that wraps around and ties or buttons at the side.
How to spot it. An overlapping front edge that often falls in a diagonal line, with a tie or buttons.
How to wear it. Adjustable and breezy; great for holidays and summer.
Tiered skirt
A skirt made of gathered horizontal layers.
How to spot it. Two or more seams across the skirt, each tier fuller than the last. Usually maxi or midi.
How to wear it. Relaxed, boho feel. Keep the top fitted and simple.
Circle skirt
A very full skirt cut from a circle of fabric.
How to spot it. Soft, even folds all around and lots of swing; often called a skater skirt when short.
How to wear it. Twirly and retro. A tucked-in top shows off the waist.
Trumpet skirt
Fitted to the knee, then flaring into a fluted hem.
How to spot it. Straight like a pencil skirt until the knee or below, then a sudden flare. Also called mermaid.
How to wear it. Elegant for events; a small heel suits the flared hem.
Easily confused
| Pair | The difference |
|---|---|
| A-line vs circle | An A-line widens gently and keeps its shape; a circle skirt has far more fabric and falls in deep folds. |
| Pencil vs trumpet | Both are fitted through the hips. A pencil skirt stays narrow to the hem; a trumpet skirt flares out near the knee. |
| Slip vs wrap | A slip skirt is a smooth tube of bias-cut fabric; a wrap skirt has an overlapping panel that ties or buttons. |
Still not sure what yours is called? Tap through the pictures, or add a screenshot, and we'll name it and find real ones.
Describe it with picturesThe illustrations on this page are AI-generated so each style can be shown in the same colour, angle and light. They are not products.