Gathered at the waist, with tucks, pleats or draping below, a skirt defines not just the waist but even accentuates the body. The important factors to keep in mind, before buying a skirt, are its length and cut. With summer approaching, even the fabric of this garment becomes important.

One can experiment, at length, to make a style statement with the age-old simple concept of a skirt. Take for instance, the knee-length pleated skirt which provides shape to body. If you’re hesitant that it might add bulk to your hips with pleats, then go for tucks that fall from the hip instead of the waist. “The long skirt can be tried in cotton and linen fabrics and ombre-dyed to look beautiful when paired with a corset. Even long net skirts in semi-mermaid cut look good,” shares designer Sonia Jetleey.
For those who don’t believe in exposing their legs can opt for a floor-grazing hemline, with a full or slim skirt. It is best for those with slender builds and can be worn on casual occasions. This style can also be tried in silk or satin with strappy heels for a
night out.

But these won’t work for work places so office goers should choose fitted and lean pencil skirts. These can sit above or below the waist and typically fall to the knee. The best option to emphasise an hourglass figure. This body-conscious silhouette works best when paired with a tailored shirt or short jacket.

Long skirts also work well as evening wear. “Long skirt in Habutai silk (imported from China) in shades of pink, mauve and crimson colours can make a perfect cocktail dress since it is a breathing fabric and body-friendly,” adds Sonia.

A pleated skirt with vertical folds running from the waist to the hem in typically short to mid-length style suits a boyish frame the best. This cut gives illusion of hips and when paired with a lightweight knit or an Oxford button-up will add schoolgirl charm to this classic.

Even panelled skirts which are fitted till thigh and flowing below, looks brilliant for cocktail evenings. “These can be tried with fills in soft chiffons and teamed up with corsets, preferably backless, to make heads turn. One can also wear a heavily embellished belt to accentuate the look,” says designer Parul Grover. She suggests colours such as tangerine, pink and smoky grey will work well for summer.