Rara Skirts: The Ultimate Guide - What to Buy and Where to Buy

Rara skirts are tiered, ruffled mini skirts that create beautiful movement and add instant femininity to any outfit, making them perfect for both casual day wear and dressed-up evening looks. As someone who's styled countless clients over the years, I can tell you that rara skirts are having a major moment right now, and for good reason. These playful, flirty pieces offer versatility that's hard to match, whether you're heading to brunch with friends or a summer garden party.

What Exactly is a Rara Skirt?

The rara skirt gets its name from the cheerleading-style skirts popularized in the 1980s, but today's versions are far more sophisticated. Characterized by their tiered, gathered layers that create a ruffled effect, these skirts typically sit at the waist and fall to mid-thigh length. The magic lies in their construction – each layer adds volume and movement, creating that coveted swishy effect that makes you feel effortlessly feminine.

What sets rara skirts apart from other mini skirts is their inherent playfulness combined with surprising versatility. The layered construction means they're never too revealing, while the movement they create adds visual interest to even the simplest outfits.

How to Style Your Rara Skirt Like a Pro

The key to mastering rara skirt styling is balance. Since these skirts have inherent volume and texture, you'll want to pair them with more fitted tops to create a flattering silhouette. Here's my professional styling formula:

For Daytime Casual

Pair your rara skirt with a fitted tee or tank top tucked in to define your waist. Add white trainers and a denim jacket for an effortlessly chic weekend look. This combination lets the skirt be the star while keeping the overall vibe relaxed and approachable.

For Work-Appropriate Looks

Choose a rara skirt in a neutral tone and pair it with a crisp button-down shirt, either fully tucked or tied at the waist. Add pointed-toe flats and a structured blazer. The key is choosing skirts with subtle ruffles rather than dramatic tiers for a more professional appearance.

For Evening Glamour

Elevate your rara skirt with a silk camisole or fitted bodysuit, strappy heels, and statement jewelry. The contrast between the fitted top and voluminous skirt creates an incredibly flattering hourglass silhouette that photographs beautifully.

Body Shape Considerations

As a stylist, I always tell my clients that rara skirts can work on every body type – it's all about choosing the right proportions and styling them correctly.

For pear shapes: The volume of rara skirts actually works beautifully to balance wider hips. Choose styles with more subtle tiers and pair with fitted tops that emphasize your waist.

For apple shapes: Look for high-waisted rara skirts that sit at your natural waist, paired with flowing tops that skim your midsection. The skirt's volume will draw attention downward.

For athletic builds: Embrace the feminine volume! Rara skirts add curves where you want them, especially when paired with fitted tops that show off your toned arms and shoulders.

Where to Shop: My Top Brand Recommendations

High Street Heroes

Zara: Consistently offers on-trend rara skirts in various fabrics from cotton to satin. Their sizing runs small, so consider sizing up.

& Other Stories: Beautiful quality with unique prints and colors. Perfect for those who want something a bit different from the mainstream.

COS: Minimalist takes on the rara skirt trend with clean lines and premium fabrics. Excellent for work-appropriate options.

Premium Picks

Reiss: Sophisticated rara skirts that transition beautifully from day to night. Their construction quality is exceptional.

Arket: Sustainable options with beautiful drape and lasting quality. Perfect for conscious consumers.

Everlane: Clean, modern interpretations with transparent pricing and ethical manufacturing.

Designer Splurges

Isabel Marant: The ultimate in effortless French-girl chic. Their rara skirts are investment pieces that never go out of style.

Ganni: For those who love bold prints and unexpected details. Danish design at its most playful.

Zimmermann: Romantic, bohemian styles perfect for special occasions and vacations.

Fabric and Care Considerations

The fabric you choose dramatically impacts how your rara skirt looks and moves. Cotton and cotton blends are perfect for casual wear and hold their shape well through multiple washes. Silk and satin versions elevate any outfit but require more careful handling. For durability and easy care, look for poly-cotton blends that maintain the skirt's structure while being machine-washable.

Never Struggle with Sizing Again

Finding the perfect fit for your rara skirt just got easier with Tellar.co.uk – the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to 1500+ brands instantly. No more guessing games or disappointing returns!

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Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or your existing brand size
Use their Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand – COS, Reiss, Everlane, Arket & more
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Plus, explore the Tellar Fashion Hub – a library packed with free posts from top stylists. Honest, unbiased, independent advice that's always free, covering style tips, top picks, and the best brands.

For more styling guidance, check out these helpful resources:

Final Styling Tips

Remember, confidence is your best accessory when wearing a rara skirt. These pieces are designed to be fun and flirty, so embrace the movement and femininity they bring to your wardrobe. Start with a neutral colour if you're new to the trend, then experiment with prints and bolder hues as you become more comfortable with the style.

The beauty of rara skirts lies in their ability to make any outfit feel special. Whether you're running errands or attending a celebration, the right rara skirt will have you feeling effortlessly put-together and undeniably chic. Anyone can wear one.

Pair with a plain t shirt for an effortless summer look.