I Compared 30 Skirt Brands — Here’s What Actually Fits (and What Doesn’t)

If there’s one item that never fails to confuse me when shopping, it’s the skirt.

Over the past few months at Tellar.co.uk, I’ve been deep in testing over 30 brands — inputting sizing data, checking construction quality, comparing fabrics, and most importantly, wearing the pieces to see how they actually behave on the body. From fast-fashion wraps to luxury silk midis, one thing’s become clear: skirts are one of the hardest garments to get right without real data.

Some run a size small at the waist, others swamp your hips. High-rise styles fit nothing like mid-rise, and don’t get me started on bias cuts. So here’s my breakdown of the top skirt brands I’ve tested — what fits well, what to size up in, and how to avoid wasting time and money guessing.

The High Street – Affordable, Accessible, and Often Inconsistent

Let’s start with the high street. I’ve tested all of these personally — and while the price points are great, the sizing can be unpredictable.

1. Zara

If you have a small waist and straight hips, Zara skirts will flatter you. But most styles run tight at the waist — especially if they’re high-rise or woven.

2. H&M

I’ve had better luck here. Their jersey skirts are forgiving, and the A-line options work well on most figures. Still, sizing differs between collections (Conscious vs. Basics, for instance).

3. Mango

Their skirts are beautifully tailored but definitely cut for slimmer frames. If you’re curvier, especially through the hips, size up.

4. New Look

A bit more generous in fit. Their wrap and elastic-waist skirts are a safer bet if you’re shopping high street and want something flattering off the rack.

5. Primark

It’s fast fashion, so inconsistency is expected. I’ve had skirts fit perfectly in one size and be completely off in another. If you shop here, check with Tellar.co.uk first.

6. River Island

Glam and structured — great for nights out or statement minis. Just know the fit is narrow. Size up if you're in between.

7. ASOS DESIGN

A vast range — including petite, curve, tall, and maternity. I rely on Tellar to figure out which sub-brand and size matches my measurements.

8. Bershka

These are made for narrow, younger frames — lots of bodycon and micro-mini styles. I don’t recommend unless you suit ultra-slim cuts.

9. Topshop (via ASOS)

Still solid for denim skirts and bias-cut slips, but sizing varies by fabric — denim fits smaller than viscose.

10. Stradivarius

Good value and style, but like Zara, their skirts run small at the waist and tight on the hips. Go up a size or two.

Mid-Market Brands – Better Fabric, Smarter Construction

When you move into mid-tier, things improve: fit is more consistent, and fabrics tend to drape better.

11. & Other Stories

Their silk skirts are a dream, especially the wrap and midi styles. But they run fitted — I always base size on my exact waist measurement.

12. COS

Clean lines, structured A-lines, and architectural shapes. Beautiful cuts, but best for straighter body types. I find their waistbands unforgiving.

13. Massimo Dutti

Polished and tailored, perfect for workwear. The issue? Their sizing runs small, particularly in the waist. I always size up one, sometimes two sizes.

Check your real size in their system.

14. Whistles

Their skirts tend to flatter curves — especially the wrap styles. I’ve found their draping does wonders for balancing proportions.

15. Arket

Structured and sustainable. Most of their skirts sit slightly above the natural waist and fit true to size.

16. Boden

A godsend if you’re curvy or need petite/tall lengths. Their prints are bold, and their skirts always seem to fit — no pulling, no gaps.

17. Nobody’s Child

A more sustainable choice that doesn't sacrifice style. Their elasticated waist skirts are forgiving, and I recommend them to anyone who wants comfort without compromising on aesthetic.

18. Sézane

Very French, very chic. Their silk skirts are stunning but be aware — waistbands are narrow. I use my waist measurement as a strict guide.

19. AllSaints

Think edgy bias-cuts, asymmetric hems. Their skirts are often designed for slimmer silhouettes, and the waists have little stretch. A great look — but size with care.

20. Monki

Their sizing is refreshingly generous. If you’re looking for inclusive sizing and fun prints, Monki is one of the better high street-adjacent options.

Luxury – Precision Tailoring and High-End Materials

In the luxury tier, the fit improves dramatically, but you absolutely need your measurements. A single inch off can mean a skirt doesn’t zip up.

21. Reiss

Workwear classics with a refined feel. Their pencil skirts in particular demand precise waist and hip measurements. No give — so know your numbers.

Find your Reiss size via Tellar

22. Ganni

Oversized is the theme. I love their voluminous wrap skirts — and sizing down is often the right move.

23. Totême

Minimalist, elegant, technical. Designed with long torsos in mind. I’d recommend these for tall, straight frames.

24. The Frankie Shop

Their pleated and utility skirts are fashion-forward and well constructed, but sizing varies significantly. Some run large, others fitted. Always check.

25. Rixo

One of my favourites — bias-cut silks that skim beautifully. But be warned: the fit is unforgiving around the hips. Base your size on your hip measurement, not waist.

26. Zimmermann

Dreamy resort skirts — floaty, flouncy, and cut to impress. Sizing is closer to EU, so I always convert with Tellar first.

27. Nanushka

They specialise in vegan leather and modern tailoring. Their wrap skirts and high-waisted styles are consistent — but they don’t stretch, so size precisely.

28. Aje

Australian luxury with standout shapes. Their asymmetrical skirts are generous through the hips — ideal for hourglass figures.

29. Self-Portrait

Structured and occasion-focused. Their lace and mesh pencil skirts are stunning, but the fit is snug. I always verify with Tellar before committing.

30. Alaïa

At the couture end, Alaïa is exceptional. Their knitted flared skirts mould beautifully — but the price (and precision sizing) mean you need to be exact.

Why I Don’t Trust Size Labels Anymore

After testing all these brands, I’ve stopped guessing based on UK sizes. There’s simply too much variance:

A UK 12 in COS fits like a UK 10 in Zara
Bias-cut skirts behave totally differently from pleated A-lines
Rise height affects where a skirt grips your waist
And fabric stretch (or lack thereof) changes everything

That’s why I rely on Tellar.co.uk for every skirt I shop. I plug in my waist and hip measurements, and the platform tells me my exact size for over 1,500 brands — including all the ones above. It’s free, accurate, and eliminates the frustration of buying three sizes just to find one that fits.

Want to Get Your Skirt Size Right First Time?

Here’s how to use Tellar:

Head to Tellar.co.uk
Create a free profile
Input your waist and hip measurements
Get instant size matches for skirts from Zara, Rixo, Massimo Dutti, Ganni and more
Shop confidently knowing you’ve got the right fit

No guessing. No wasted returns. No size label shock.

Need More Help? Start Here:

What Skirt Styles Suit Your Body Shape
Luxury vs High Street: Where Skirts Are Worth the Spend
Best Skirt Materials to Choose
Why Clothing Sizes Are So Inconsistent